Missouri Hickory BBQ Meatballs

Introduction

These Missouri Hickory BBQ Meatballs are packed with smoky flavor, juicy texture, and a delicious glaze. Grilled to perfection on the Arteflame, these meatballs get a perfect sear over the high heat center grill grate before finishing on the flat cooktop for even heat distribution. Packed with a mix of beef and pork, these tender and flavorful bites will impress your guests at any BBQ gathering!

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 lb ground pork
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup whole milk
• 1 egg
• 1/2 cup diced onion
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 cup hickory BBQ sauce
• 2 tbsp butter

Instructions

Step 1: Fire Up the Arteflame Grill

1. Pour some vegetable oil on three paper napkins and place them inside the Arteflame grill.
2. Stack firewood over the soaked napkins and light them.
3. Let the firewood burn for about 20 minutes until the grill is hot and ready for cooking.

Step 2: Prepare the Meatballs

1. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, diced onion, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, and Worcestershire sauce.
2. Mix thoroughly until everything is well incorporated.
3. Form the mixture into 1.5-inch meatballs and set aside.

Step 3: Sear the Meatballs

1. Place the meatballs on the center grill grate of the Arteflame, which reaches over 1,000°F.
2. Sear the meatballs for about 1-2 minutes per side until they develop a flavorful crust.
3. Move the seared meatballs to the flat cooktop to continue cooking evenly.

Step 4: Cook the Meatballs

1. Spread the meatballs on the Arteflame flat cooktop over a medium heat zone.
2. Cover them lightly with butter and cook, turning occasionally, until they reach an internal temperature of 160°F.
3. Remove the meatballs when they hit about 145°F, as they will continue to cook after coming off the grill.

Step 5: Glaze with BBQ Sauce

1. Brush the meatballs generously with hickory BBQ sauce.
2. Allow the glaze to caramelize slightly on the grill for 1-2 minutes.
3. Remove from the grill and serve hot.

Tips

• For extra smokiness, use hickory wood in your Arteflame grill.
• Cook the meatballs evenly by moving them to the cooler edge of the cooktop if they are cooking too fast.
• Use a meat thermometer to ensure the perfect internal temperature.

Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños and an extra pinch of cayenne for a hotter version.
• Cheesy Delight: Insert a small cube of cheddar cheese inside each meatball before grilling.
• Sweet Honey BBQ: Mix 2 tbsp of honey with the hickory BBQ sauce for a sweet glaze.
• Italian Style: Use Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning for a Mediterranean twist.
• Asian Style: Replace BBQ sauce with teriyaki glaze and add sesame seeds.

Best Pairings

• Grilled corn on the cob
• Crispy roasted potatoes
• Coleslaw
• Buttered garlic bread
• Iced sweet tea or a cold beer

Conclusion

These Missouri Hickory BBQ Meatballs are the perfect grilled treat, bursting with smoky flavor and a sweet, tangy glaze. The Arteflame grill's unique cooking method ensures an amazing texture and perfect doneness. Serve these at your next BBQ and watch them disappear in minutes!