Ingredients:

  • 1 lb (450 g) ground beef or ground turkey
  • 1/2 cup (50 g) breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup (40 g) grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup (60 ml) milk
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp (5 g) onion powder
  • 1 tsp (5 g) dried oregano
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1 cup (240 ml) ketchup
  • 1/4 cup (60 ml) honey or brown sugar
  • 2 tbsp (30 ml) apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tbsp (15 ml) Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tsp (5 g) garlic powder
  • 1 tsp (5 g) smoked paprika

Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, milk, egg, garlic, onion powder, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined; avoid overmixing.
  3. Shape the mixture into 1.5-inch meatballs and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
  4. Refrigerate for 30 minutes to firm up.
  5. In a separate bowl, whisk together ketchup, honey or brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, and smoked paprika until smooth.
  6. Bake meatballs in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through.
  7. Brush meatballs with sweet BBQ sauce during the last 5 minutes of baking for a caramelized finish.
  8. Remove from the oven and serve hot, drizzled with extra sauce as desired.