Pin Tender beef meatballs glazed in smoky BBQ sauce served over creamy mashed potatoes create a comforting and family-friendly meal that feels like an embrace at the end of a long day.
I still remember the first time I made this dish for a family get-together. Everyone gathered around the table and couldn't stop raving about the savory meatballs and smooth potatoes.
Ingredients
- Ground beef: 500 g
- Bread crumbs: 1/2 cup
- Egg: 1 large
- Milk: 1/4 cup (for meatballs) + 1/2 cup warm (for potatoes)
- Onion: 1 small, finely diced
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
- Salt: 1/2 tsp (plus more for potatoes)
- Black pepper: 1/4 tsp (plus more for potatoes)
- Fresh parsley: 1 tbsp, chopped (optional)
- BBQ sauce: 1 cup (store-bought or homemade)
- Ketchup: 2 tbsp
- Worcestershire sauce: 1 tbsp
- Smoked paprika: 1 tsp
- Potatoes: 1 kg (Yukon Gold or Russet), peeled and cubed
- Unsalted butter: 60 g
- Chopped fresh chives or parsley: For garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare oven and pan:
- Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Form and bake meatballs:
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, 1/4 cup milk, onion, garlic, salt, pepper, and parsley. Mix until just combined. Shape into 16 meatballs and place on baking sheet. Bake 15 minutes.
- Make BBQ sauce:
- Whisk BBQ sauce, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, and smoked paprika together.
- Glaze and finish meatballs:
- Transfer meatballs to an oven-safe casserole dish and pour BBQ sauce mixture over. Toss gently to coat. Return to oven for 10 minutes until glazed and cooked through.
- Prepare mashed potatoes:
- While meatballs bake, boil potatoes in salted water for 15-18 minutes until fork-tender. Drain and return to pot. Add butter and warm milk, mash until smooth and creamy. Season to taste.
- Assemble and serve:
- Spoon mashed potatoes onto plates, top with BBQ meatballs, drizzle with extra sauce, and garnish with chives or parsley if desired.
Pin This hearty meal becomes an instant hit whenever we serve it for Sunday supper and sparks nostalgic memories from my own childhood family dinners.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this dish with steamed green beans or a fresh green salad for a balanced plate and added crunch.
Ingredient Swaps
Try substituting ground turkey or chicken for the beef, or add a pinch of cayenne to the BBQ sauce for a gentle kick.
Make-Ahead Tips
You can prep and bake the meatballs in advance, and simply reheat with BBQ sauce just before serving for busy weeknights.
Pin Enjoy these BBQ meatballs and mashed potatoes as the centerpiece of a cozy night in. Leftovers reheat beautifully for an easy lunch!
Recipe Questions
- → What type of meat is best for the meatballs?
Ground beef is preferred for its rich flavor and texture, though ground turkey or chicken can also be used for a lighter variation.
- → How can I make the mashed potatoes extra creamy?
Add a splash of sour cream or use warm milk and butter while mashing to achieve a silky, smooth texture.
- → What gives the BBQ sauce its smoky flavor?
Smoked paprika is the key ingredient that adds a subtle smoky depth to the BBQ sauce.
- → Can I prepare the meatballs ahead of time?
Yes, meatballs can be shaped and refrigerated before baking, making it convenient for meal prepping.
- → What are good side options to serve alongside this dish?
Steamed green beans or a fresh simple salad complement the richness of the meatballs and mashed potatoes well.