Name: BBQ Pork Meatballs with Cheesy Grits Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb. ground pork ($3.49); 1 large egg ($0.21); 1/4 cup breadcrumbs ($0.07); 2 Tbsp BBQ sauce, divided ($0.54 total); 1/2 tsp salt ($0.02); 1/2 tsp smoked paprika ($0.05); 1/4 tsp garlic powder ($0.02); 2 cups chicken broth ($0.26); 2 cups milk ($1.25); 1/4 tsp garlic powder ($0.02); 1 cup quick cooking grits ($0.49); 1/4 tsp salt ($0.02); 2 Tbsp butter ($0.18); 1/4 tsp freshly cracked black pepper ($0.02); 1 cup shredded cheddar ($1.15)

Jump to Recipe· 4.4 from 33 reviews

If you’re craving something hearty, comforting, and packed with bold flavors, this BBQ Pork Meatballs with Cheesy Grits Recipe is an absolute winner. The juicy pork meatballs smothered in tangy BBQ sauce pair perfectly with creamy, cheesy grits that boast a velvety texture and a hint of garlic. It’s a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate—simple to make but bursting with that soul-satisfying goodness that makes every bite unforgettable.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A white tray lined with white parchment paper holds 16 raw meatballs arranged evenly in a 4 by 4 grid. Each meatball is small, round, and rough-textured, showing a pinkish-brown color with small bits of white inside. The tray sits on a white marbled surface, and the overall scene is bright and clean. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Each ingredient in this BBQ Pork Meatballs with Cheesy Grits Recipe plays an essential role in creating the perfect balance of flavors and textures. From the savory pork and aromatic seasonings in the meatballs to the creamy richness of cheddar-infused grits, these simple staples come together beautifully.

1 lb. ground pork: The juicy base for tender meatballs packed with flavor.
1 large egg: Acts as a binder to keep the meatballs perfectly together.
1/4 cup breadcrumbs: Adds structure and lightness to the meatballs.
1 cup BBQ sauce, divided: One part mixed in and the rest coats the meatballs for that smoky, tangy finish.
1/2 tsp salt: Enhances all the flavors without overpowering.
1/2 tsp smoked paprika: Brings a subtle smoky warmth to the pork.
1/4 tsp garlic powder: Adds a mellow, comforting garlicky note.
2 cups chicken broth: Forms the creamy base of the grits for extra depth.
2 cups milk: Makes the grits luscious and smooth.
1 cup quick cooking grits: The star ingredient for that classic southern creaminess.
1/4 tsp salt (for grits): Balances the mild sweetness of the corn.
2 Tbsp butter: Gives the grits richness and silky texture.
1/4 tsp freshly cracked black pepper: Adds a hint of spice to keep the grits lively.
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Melts into the grits for an irresistible cheesy flavor.

How to Make BBQ Pork Meatballs with Cheesy Grits Recipe

Step 1: Mix the Meatball Ingredients

Begin by preheating your oven to 375ºF and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking. In a large bowl, combine the ground pork, egg, breadcrumbs, 2 tablespoons of BBQ sauce, salt, smoked paprika, and garlic powder. Using your hands, gently mix everything until the seasoning evenly infuses the pork, ensuring each meatball will be full of flavor.

Step 2: Shape and Bake the Meatballs

Divide the pork mixture into 16 equal portions, shaping each into a ball roughly the size of a ping pong ball. Arrange them spaced out on the lined baking sheet. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through. This step locks in juices and creates a lovely crust on the outside, crucial for that perfect meatball bite.

Step 3: Prepare the Cheesy Grits

While the meatballs bake, prepare your grits. In a medium saucepan, combine chicken broth, milk, and 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally to avoid scorching. Once boiling, stir in the quick cooking grits and salt. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer, stirring occasionally until the mixture thickens, usually about 5 minutes.

Step 4: Finish the Cheese Grits

Remove the grits from heat and stir in butter and freshly cracked black pepper. Then, gradually add shredded cheddar, mixing continuously until fully melted and creamy. This step transforms simple grits into a silky, rich base that perfectly complements the smoky meatballs.

Step 5: Combine Meatballs with BBQ Sauce

Once your meatballs are out of the oven, transfer them to a clean bowl and pour the remaining BBQ sauce over the top. Gently toss to coat all the meatballs. If your BBQ sauce is cold from the fridge, warming it slightly over low heat with the meatballs will bring out those vibrant flavors and ensure a comforting warmth in every bite.

How to Serve BBQ Pork Meatballs with Cheesy Grits Recipe

The image shows a white bowl filled with three main layers: the bottom layer is creamy, pale yellow grits with a slightly grainy texture, topped with four glazed, shiny brown meatballs placed near the center. To the right side of the bowl is a serving of cooked dark green leafy vegetables with a soft, wilted texture. A black fork is resting on the edge of the bowl above the vegetables. The bowl is placed on a white marbled surface with a striped cloth partially visible. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley or green onions adds a burst of color and freshness that beautifully contrasts the rich meatballs and creamy grits. For an extra touch of indulgence, a drizzle of additional BBQ sauce or a few shards of crispy fried onions can take this meal to another level.

Side Dishes

Although this dish is wonderfully hearty on its own, pairing it with simple steamed greens like collards or sautéed spinach can add a nice balance. A tangy slaw or pickled vegetables also make excellent companions, cutting through the richness with brightness and crunch.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the meatballs skewered on toothpicks for easy sharing at a gathering or stack a few meatballs on top of a bed of grits in rustic bowls for a cozy meal presentation. You can even layer the dish in small mason jars for an on-the-go indulgence that doesn’t sacrifice flavor or comfort.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover meatballs and cheesy grits refrigerated separately in airtight containers for up to 3 days. Storing components separately preserves the texture and tanginess of the sauce and prevents the grits from becoming too thick or dry.

Freezing

This BBQ Pork Meatballs with Cheesy Grits Recipe freezes well—place the cooked meatballs in a freezer-safe bag or container, and likewise freeze the cheesy grits in a separate container. Both can be stored for up to 2 months, making it easy to enjoy this comfort meal even on a busy weeknight.

Reheating

To reheat, warm the meatballs gently in a saucepan over low heat with the BBQ sauce, stirring occasionally. For the grits, microwave or reheat on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk or broth to loosen them back up to that creamy consistency you love.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of meat for the meatballs?

Absolutely! Ground beef, turkey, or chicken can work well, but keep in mind the flavor and fat content will vary slightly. Pork provides moisture and tenderness that’s perfect for this BBQ Pork Meatballs with Cheesy Grits Recipe.

Can I make the cheese grits from scratch without quick-cooking grits?

You can, but it will require a longer cooking time. Traditional grits need about 20 to 30 minutes to cook, and you’ll want to stir more frequently to keep them from sticking or becoming lumpy.

Is this BBQ Pork Meatballs with Cheesy Grits Recipe spicy?

It’s not overly spicy but has a mild smoky warmth from the smoked paprika and a gentle kick from the black pepper. You can easily adjust the spice level by adding cayenne or hot sauce if you like more heat.

What type of BBQ sauce works best?

A classic smoky or sweet BBQ sauce pairs beautifully here. Choose one you love since the sauce’s flavor really shines in both the meatball mix and as a finishing glaze.

Can this recipe be doubled for a larger crowd?

Yes, doubling works great! Just be sure to bake the meatballs in batches if needed to avoid overcrowding, which helps them brown nicely and cook evenly.

Final Thoughts

I truly believe this BBQ Pork Meatballs with Cheesy Grits Recipe is a standout dish that brings warmth and joy to any meal. It’s simple to make yet feels special every time you serve it. Whether for a cozy family dinner or impressing friends, give this recipe a try—you’ll be hooked on that creamy, cheesy grits base and those tender, saucy meatballs before you know it!