These BBQ meatballs have only two ingredients. They make the perfect game day appetizer or main dish for subs!

There are times when I buy a large bag of frozen meatballs and only use half of it for a meal. It’s great because I save money by having extra protein for another dinner; but sometimes I just forget it’s in the freezer!

That’s why I try to plan ahead. If I know I’m buying a bag of meatballs, I’ll try to already have another meal planned to use them all up. Preferably something easy!

These BBQ Meatballs have only 2 simple ingredients and make an easy appetizer or main dish. It’s the perfect combination of sweet and savory!

Scroll to the bottom of this post to get to the full recipe card, or keep reading if you want extra tips!

Isn’t this a little easy?

Yes, technically you really don’t need a recipe for this. It’s a simple recipe, for sure. But do you ever get overwhelmed thinking of meal ideas and just need something quick?

I love recipes that have 5 ingredients or less, because it means I can put meals together fairly quickly and not use a lot of brainpower. And for a family gathering, it’s basically the perfect appetizer because it’s a huge family favorite here. They go quick!

Ingredients

For these being such basic ingredients, it’s actually a pretty great recipe:

Frozen meatballs (Beef meatballs or turkey meatballs, either one works)

Barbecue sauce (I use either Sweet Baby Rays or whatever is on sale)

Extra additions

For extra flavor, you can add any of your favorite seasonings or sauces:

• Black pepper
• Salt (Although the meatballs might already be pretty salty)
• Chili powder
• Cranberry sauce
• Grape jelly
• Brown sugar

There are so many variations. I personally just like plain BBQ sauce, but use what you like!

Can I make these slow cooker meatballs instead?

This recipe is definitely crock pot friendly! If the meatballs are frozen and pre-cooked, you can cook this on LOW for 5-6 hours, or HIGH for 2-3 hours, and you’ll achieve the same perfect meatballs.

Can I use homemade meatballs?

I think store-bought meatballs are just easier. If you like making your own meatballs, you can use those instead. They’ll take longer, and may not be as sturdy as the frozen meatballs so they might fall apart as you mix them around in the pot.

I’ve actually used my own homemade meatballs in the slow cooker with BBQ sauce and have had much better results! Here’s the easy meatball recipe I use.

How to make

In a medium pot, add meatballs and BBQ sauce.

Cook on medium-high heat for 15 minutes until the meatballs are fully cooked.

Divide and serve on subs, as an appetizer, or alongside rice and vegetables.

How to store

Once they have cooled to room temperature, store leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the fridge. Use up within 3-5 days.

What to eat with this

Honestly, BBQ meatballs are very versatile.

I’ve eaten these on Hawaiian rolls as sliders or on sub rolls. I also like eating them as a main course, on a bed of rice and roasted vegetables. Mashed potatoes are a good side dish as well!

Whether it’s for your next party, a game day celebration, or even a simple dinner, this BBQ meatballs recipe is sure to please!

More Meatball Recipes

Want some more ways to use up leftover meatballs? Check out my roundup post of meatball recipes!

Print the recipe now for these 2 ingredient BBQ meatballs: