Print

Savory Guinness BBQ Meatballs

Guinness BBQ meatballs - featured image

These savory Guinness BBQ meatballs feature a sticky, tangy glaze combining rich Guinness stout and smoky BBQ sauce, perfect for parties and family gatherings. They are quick to make, flavorful, and a crowd-pleaser for all ages.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb ground beef (80/20 for juiciness)
  • ½ lb ground pork (adds tenderness and flavor)
  • ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 1 large egg, room temperature
  • ¼ cup Guinness beer
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 1 cup BBQ sauce (smoky, slightly sweet)
  • ½ cup Guinness beer
  • 2 tbsp brown sugar
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tsp chili powder (optional)
  • 1 tsp apple cider vinegar

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, ground pork, panko breadcrumbs, egg, Guinness beer, minced garlic, chopped onion, parsley, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined, about 3-4 minutes.
  2. Using wet hands, shape the mixture into 1½-inch meatballs, about 20-24 meatballs. Place on a plate or tray.
  3. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat with a tablespoon of oil. Add meatballs in batches, browning on all sides for 5-7 minutes per batch. Remove and set aside.
  4. Reduce heat to medium. In the same skillet, combine BBQ sauce, Guinness beer, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, chili powder (if using), and apple cider vinegar. Stir and simmer for 3-4 minutes until slightly thickened and glossy.
  5. Return meatballs to the skillet, coat with glaze, cover, and simmer on low heat for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until cooked through (internal temp 160°F) and tender.
  6. Remove lid and cook uncovered for 3-5 minutes to thicken glaze further. Adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot.

Notes

Do not overmix meat to keep meatballs tender. Wet hands before shaping to prevent sticking. Searing meatballs before simmering locks in flavor and texture. Adjust glaze thickness by adding Guinness or simmering longer uncovered. Use a meat thermometer to ensure internal temperature reaches 160°F. For gluten-free, substitute breadcrumbs with almond flour or gluten-free panko and check BBQ sauce ingredients. Variations include adding jalapeños for spice or making a vegetarian version with lentils and mushrooms.

Nutrition

Keywords: Guinness meatballs, BBQ meatballs, party appetizers, sticky glaze, easy meatballs, game day snacks, savory meatballs