Ingredients:

  • 1 lb lean ground beef
  • 1/2 lb ground pork
  • 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 1 large egg, beaten
  • 1/4 cup yellow onion, finely minced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
  • 1 tsp dried parsley
  • 1/2 cup low-sugar BBQ sauce
  • 1/4 cup bourbon
  • 2 tbsp light brown sugar
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tsp apple cider vinegar
  • 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper

Instructions:

  1. Combine the ground beef, ground pork, panko, beaten egg, minced onion, garlic, salt, pepper, and parsley in a large bowl. Gently combine the ingredients by hand to avoid overworking the meat.
  2. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Scoop 1 tablespoon of meat per ball, roll into spheres, and place on the sheet. Bake for 15–20 minutes until browned and internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
  3. While meatballs bake, combine low-sugar BBQ sauce, bourbon, brown sugar, Worcestershire, vinegar, and cayenne in a saucepan over medium heat. Simmer for 5–8 minutes until the sauce thickens and caramelizes.
  4. Transfer the baked meatballs into the saucepan with the glaze. Toss gently to coat and simmer on low heat for 2–3 minutes until the glaze is tacky.