Pork Meatballs with BBQ Sauce and Peppers

Name: Pork Meatballs with BBQ Sauce and Peppers
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 80 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: Quebecois
Ingredients: 500 g ground pork; 1 egg (lightly beaten); 1/2 cup breadcrumbs; 2 cloves garlic (minced); 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 1 red bell pepper (cut into strips); 1 green bell pepper (cut into strips); 1 cup BBQ sauce (your choice); 1 onion (sliced); 2 tbsp olive oil

80 min 4 servings Medium

All Recipes

Succulent pork meatballs simmered in a tangy BBQ sauce with vibrant bell peppers, perfect for a comforting meal.

Prep

20 min

Cook

30 min

Total

80 min

Servings

Difficulty

Medium

Pork meatballs with BBQ sauce and peppers is a hearty dish that combines the rich flavours of tender pork with the sweetness of bell peppers and the tang of a good BBQ sauce. This recipe is perfect for those who crave a comforting meal that is both satisfying and flavourful. The combination of ground pork and spices creates a juicy meatball that absorbs the smokiness of the BBQ sauce. Adding colourful bell peppers not only enhances the dish's visual appeal but also contributes a fresh crunch and sweetness, perfectly balancing the dish.

Ingredients

Servings

For the Meatballs

For the Sauce

Instructions

Prepare the meatball mixture

In a large bowl, combine ground pork, egg, breadcrumbs, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper. Mix until just combined.

Pro tip: Avoid overmixing to keep the meatballs tender.

Shape the meatballs

Using your hands or an ice cream scoop, form the mixture into 16 uniform meatballs. Place them on a plate and refrigerate for 30 minutes to help them hold their shape.

Pro tip: Chilling helps the meatballs firm up and reduces crumbling during cooking.

Sauté the onions and peppers

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add sliced onions and bell peppers, and sauté for 5 minutes until the onions are translucent and the peppers are slightly softened.

Pro tip: Stir frequently to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.

Brown the meatballs

Add the meatballs to the skillet, searing them on all sides until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the meatballs and set aside.

Pro tip: Ensure the skillet is not overcrowded to achieve proper browning.

Simmer in BBQ sauce

Reduce the heat to low and add BBQ sauce to the skillet. Return the meatballs to the skillet and spoon the sauce over them. Cover and let simmer for 15-20 minutes until the meatballs are cooked through.

Pro tip: Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).

Serve

Serve the meatballs hot, garnished with the sautéed peppers and extra sauce from the pan.

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Tips & Tricks

<ul><li>For perfectly shaped meatballs, use an ice cream scoop to portion the mixture evenly.</li><li>Chill the meatball mixture for 30 minutes to make shaping easier.</li><li>Use a thermometer to check the internal temperature of meatballs for safety.</li><li>Choose a BBQ sauce with a balance of sweet and tangy flavours for best results.</li></ul>

Serving Suggestions

Serve these pork meatballs with BBQ sauce and peppers over a bed of rice or alongside a fresh green salad for a complete meal. They pair wonderfully with a crisp white wine or a cold beer. These meatballs can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water to keep the sauce from drying out. For longer storage, freeze the cooked meatballs and sauce for up to 3 months.