Whiskey Peach BBQ Meatballs
These Whiskey Peach BBQ Meatballs are a delicious blend of sweet, tangy, and smoky flavors with a hint of whiskey that takes them to the next level. Juicy meatballs are coated in a rich peach BBQ sauce infused with a splash of whiskey, perfect for serving as a crowd-pleasing appetizer or a fun twist on dinner. Whether for game day, a family gathering, or a casual weeknight meal, these meatballs are sure to impress!
One weekend, my husband and I were craving something different for our family gathering. I had some peaches and whiskey on hand, and that’s when the idea for these Whiskey Peach BBQ Meatballs was born. The first time I made them, they disappeared from the table so fast! The combination of smoky BBQ sauce, sweet peach, and a little whiskey kick made them an instant family favorite. Now, they’ve become a must-have for any special occasion or when we’re in the mood for something extra fun and flavorful.
Why You’ll Love Whiskey Peach BBQ Meatballs
•Sweet & Smoky: The balance of sweet peaches and smoky BBQ sauce makes these meatballs unforgettable.
•Easy to Make: Whether using homemade or frozen meatballs, this recipe comes together quickly and easily.
•Perfect for Entertaining: These are the ideal party appetizer or game-day snack.
•Whiskey Kick: A splash of whiskey adds a depth of flavor that elevates the BBQ sauce.
Ingredients Notes for Whiskey Peach BBQ Meatballs
•Ground Meat: Use beef, pork, or a mix for tender meatballs, or go for pre-made meatballs for convenience.
•Whiskey: Adds warmth and depth to the sauce. You can use your favorite whiskey or bourbon.
•Peaches: Fresh, frozen, or even peach preserves work for that sweet, fruity flavor.
•BBQ Sauce: Use a smoky BBQ sauce for a balance of tangy and sweet flavors.
•Garlic & Onion: Essential aromatics that add savory notes to the sauce.
Recipe Steps for Whiskey Peach BBQ Meatballs
Step 1: Make the Meatballs (or Use Pre-made)
1. For Homemade Meatballs: In a bowl, combine 1 lb ground beef, 1/4 cup breadcrumbs, 1 egg, 2 cloves minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Form into 1-inch meatballs.
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2. For Pre-made: Use 20-24 frozen or store-bought meatballs.
Step 2: Sear the Meatballs
3.Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a skillet over medium heat. Brown the meatballs on all sides until cooked through, about 8-10 minutes. Remove and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Whiskey Peach BBQ Sauce
4.In the same skillet, sauté 1 finely chopped onion until soft. Add 2 cloves minced garlic and cook for another minute.
5.Stir in 1/4 cup whiskey, simmering for 2-3 minutes to let the alcohol cook off.
6.Add 1/2 cup peach preserves (or 2 fresh peaches, diced), 1 cup BBQ sauce, 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard, and 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar. Stir to combine and simmer for 5 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
Step 4: Coat the Meatballs
7.Return the meatballs to the skillet and toss them in the whiskey peach BBQ sauce, making sure they are well coated. Let everything simmer together for another 5 minutes.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
8.Serve warm, garnished with fresh parsley. These meatballs pair perfectly with toothpicks for an easy appetizer or alongside mashed potatoes or rice for a main dish.
Storage Options
•Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
•Freezer: You can freeze cooked meatballs and sauce for up to 3 months. Thaw and reheat in a skillet or microwave.
Variations & Substitutions
•No Whiskey? Replace it with apple juice or leave it out for an alcohol-free version.
•Extra Heat: Add a dash of hot sauce or red pepper flakes to the sauce for a spicy kick.
•Chicken or Turkey Meatballs: Feel free to swap beef for ground chicken or turkey for a lighter option.
•Peach Substitute: No peaches? Apricots or nectarines work just as well!
Whiskey Peach BBQ Meatballs
Ingredients
- For the Meatballs:
- 1 lb ground beef or ground turkey
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup onion finely chopped
- 1 clove garlic minced
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- For the Whiskey Peach BBQ Sauce:
- 1 cup peach preserves
- 1/4 cup whiskey such as bourbon
- 1/4 cup barbecue sauce
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika optional
Instructions
- Prepare the Meatballs:
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
- Mix Meatball Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, chopped onion, minced garlic, egg, salt, black pepper, Worcestershire sauce, and oregano. Mix until just combined; avoid overmixing.
- Form Meatballs: Shape the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter, and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake Meatballs: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through and browned.
- Prepare the Whiskey Peach BBQ Sauce:
- Mix Sauce Ingredients: In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the peach preserves, whiskey, barbecue sauce, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, and smoked paprika. Stir well and bring to a simmer.
- Simmer: Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer for about 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened.
- Combine and Serve:
- Combine Meatballs and Sauce: Once the meatballs are cooked, remove them from the oven and place them in the saucepan with the whiskey peach BBQ sauce. Toss to coat the meatballs in the sauce.
- Serve: Transfer the meatballs to a serving dish and serve warm. They can be garnished with chopped green onions or fresh parsley if desired.
