Description
A unique twist on classic meatballs, featuring the rich flavor of pumpkin and the heat of jalapeños, all smothered in a tangy BBQ sauce. These meatballs are perfect as an appetizer or a main dish for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Meatballs:
- 1 lb ground beef or turkey (or a combination of both)
- 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
- 1 egg
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (or gluten-free breadcrumbs)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2–3 jalapeños, finely chopped (seeds removed for less heat)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for frying (optional)
For the BBQ Sauce:
- 1 cup your favorite BBQ sauce
- 2 tablespoons pumpkin puree
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional, for extra sweetness)
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
Instructions
- Make the meatballs:
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef or turkey, pumpkin puree, egg, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, chopped jalapeños, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix until all ingredients are well combined. - Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
Shape the meat mixture into 1-inch meatballs and place them on a lined baking sheet. - Cook the meatballs:
Bake the meatballs for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F/75°C). You can also pan-fry the meatballs in a little olive oil over medium heat for 8-10 minutes, turning frequently until browned on all sides. - Make the BBQ sauce:
While the meatballs are baking, in a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the BBQ sauce, pumpkin puree, honey (if using), apple cider vinegar, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper (if desired). Stir to combine and let it simmer for 5-7 minutes to thicken and meld the flavors. - Coat the meatballs:
Once the meatballs are done, remove them from the oven and place them in a large bowl. Pour the pumpkin BBQ sauce over the meatballs and toss to coat evenly. - Serve immediately with a side of ranch or a fresh salad for a complete meal. Garnish with extra chopped jalapeños or fresh herbs, if desired.
Notes
- For a spicier version, leave the seeds in the jalapeños or add extra cayenne pepper to the BBQ sauce.
- If you prefer a milder flavor, you can reduce the amount of jalapeños or replace them with a bell pepper for a milder taste.
- These meatballs can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for later use.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25-30 minutes (including baking)
- Category: Appetizer, Main Course
- Method: Bake, Cook
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Pumpkin meatballs, BBQ meatballs, spicy meatballs, jalapeño meatballs, pumpkin BBQ, appetizer, fall meatballs