Save to Pinterest This BBQ meatball biscuit bake is one of those cozy casserole recipes you reach for when the evening calls for something hearty and fun. Fluffy biscuits are tucked around juicy BBQ-glazed meatballs then everything is blanketed with melty cheddar cheese. It is exactly the kind of family meal that disappears fast, and it is surprisingly simple to make.
I started making this bake when my kids were little because it gave me big flavor with minimum cleanup, and now my husband requests it every time he smells BBQ sauce in the kitchen.
Ingredients
- Ground beef: makes classic, juicy meatballs packed with savory flavor. Look for fresh, brightly colored beef with a bit of marbling for best texture.
- Plain breadcrumbs: bind the meat mixture without overpowering it. I use fine breadcrumbs for a tender bite.
- Large egg: helps hold everything together and gives the meatballs their signature moist texture.
- Milk: softens the mixture and adds richness. Whole milk gives the best result.
- Finely chopped onion: infuses the meatballs with aromatic sweetness. Choose yellow onions for their mild flavor.
- Fresh garlic: adds sharpness and warmth. Always use fresh, not jarred, for the brightest taste.
- Fine salt and freshly ground black pepper: ensure balanced flavor in each bite.
- Smoked paprika: brings a subtle smoky note that pairs perfectly with BBQ sauce. Spanish smoked paprika or any authentic variety is ideal.
- BBQ sauce: is the real star here. Go with your family’s favorite: smoky, tangy, or sweet.
- Ketchup: boosts the sauce’s natural sweetness and thickening power. Look for no-corn-syrup options if you prefer.
- Worcestershire sauce: deepens the BBQ flavor and adds just enough umami. Try to pick one without too many additives.
- Refrigerated biscuit dough: makes this recipe weeknight easy. Choose a flaky variety if you want an extra-tender result.
- Melted butter: brushed on top of biscuits creates that beautiful golden finish.
- Shredded cheddar cheese: delivers creamy, bold flavor and gooey melt. Buy a block and shred it by hand for best melt.
- Fresh parsley: introduces color and freshness to brighten up the whole dish.
Instructions
- Prep the Oven and Baking Dish:
- Set your oven to 375°F so it is fully heated by the time you are ready to bake. Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with a thin coat of oil or butter to prevent sticking.
- Mix the Meatball Mixture:
- Grab a large bowl and combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, onion, garlic, salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika. Use your hands or a sturdy spoon to gently blend everything until just combined avoid overmixing for tender results.
- Shape and Brown the Meatballs:
- Roll the mixture into small 1-inch balls to make about 24 meatballs. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the meatballs. Let them brown on all sides for five to six minutes. No need to cook them through just get a nice color.
- Mix the BBQ Sauce:
- In a small bowl whisk together your BBQ sauce ketchup and Worcestershire sauce. This quick mix becomes the base and topper of your casserole.
- Build the Casserole Base:
- Spread half of the BBQ sauce mixture in the bottom of your greased baking dish so the meatballs soak up that smoky tang as they bake.
- Arrange Meatballs and Biscuits:
- After browning, arrange the meatballs evenly over the sauce. Separate each refrigerated biscuit by gently pulling in half so you have sixteen pieces total. Nestle biscuit pieces around and between the meatballs so every scoop will have some bread.
- Add More Sauce and Butter:
- Drizzle the remaining BBQ sauce mixture evenly over everything. Lightly brush the tops of the biscuit pieces with melted butter for a rich finish.
- Bake Until Golden:
- Place the dish in the hot oven and bake for twenty minutes. Open the oven and sprinkle a thick layer of cheddar cheese over the top then return to the oven for another ten to fifteen minutes until the biscuits are golden brown and the cheese forms bubbles.
- Rest and Garnish:
- Let your casserole cool for about five minutes before serving. Scatter fresh parsley over the top if you like for a pop of color and herby freshness.
Save to Pinterest When I make this I always sneak in extra smoked paprika because I love that gentle campfire flavor floating through the whole kitchen. Seeing my kids giggle while pulling apart the cheesy biscuits and saucy meatballs still tops my list of kitchen memories.
Storage Tips
This bake keeps well covered in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat place individual servings on a microwave-safe plate and cover lightly with a damp towel to keep biscuits from drying out. For a crispier finish rewarm in a low oven at 325°F until heated through.
Ingredient Substitutions
Ground turkey or chicken can substitute for beef if you want a lighter taste. Swap in any shredded cheese you love such as Monterey Jack or Colby. If making gluten free use your favorite gluten free biscuit recipe and certified gluten free breadcrumbs.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this casserole with a crisp green salad or a big bowl of coleslaw to cut through the richness. It also makes a hearty game-day centerpiece. For a little heat scatter some chopped pickled jalapenos over the top before baking.
Cultural and Seasonal Context
This dish takes the rooted tradition of Southern biscuit bakes and combines it with the comfort food appeal of classic American meatballs. Casseroles like this have always filled busy family tables and during winter months it is especially warming.
Save to Pinterest This comforting bake will bring smiles to any table. Enjoy every cheesy, saucy, biscuit-topped bite!
Common Recipe Questions
- → Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey or chicken can easily replace beef for a lighter flavor. Adjust seasoning to taste.
- → How do I prevent soggy biscuits?
Be sure to space biscuit pieces evenly and avoid overcrowding so they bake up golden and fluffy.
- → What sides complement this dish?
A crisp green salad, coleslaw, or roasted vegetables work well alongside for balance and color.
- → Can I make this bake ahead?
Prepare components in advance and assemble just before baking to keep the biscuits fresh and flaky.
- → How do I add extra spice?
Mix in sliced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce with the BBQ mixture for a spicier flavor profile.
- → Is this suitable for freezing?
While possible, biscuits are best enjoyed fresh. Freeze cooked meatballs separately for later use.