Description
Smoky, cheesy, and irresistibly juicy, these smoked cheese-stuffed meatballs are the ultimate BBQ comfort food. Filled with melty mozzarella and glazed in a sweet BBQ sauce, they’re perfect as a party appetizer, game day snack, or indulgent dinner. Crowd-pleasing, freezer-friendly, and flavor-packed.
Ingredients
For the meatballs:
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900 g ground beef
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450 g ground pork
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100 g Italian panko breadcrumbs
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80 g chopped yellow onion
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80 ml milk
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50 g grated Parmesan cheese
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1 tsp salt
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3 large eggs
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2 tsp beef seasoning
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1 tsp black pepper
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1 tsp garlic powder
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9 mozzarella string cheese sticks (cut into 5 pieces each)
For the BBQ glaze:
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240 ml BBQ sauce
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1 tbsp honey
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1 tbsp brown sugar
Instructions
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Preheat smoker to 250°F (121°C).
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In a large bowl, combine beef, pork, breadcrumbs, onion, milk, Parmesan, salt, eggs, seasoning, pepper, and garlic powder. Mix gently.
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Chill the meat mixture in the freezer for 15 minutes.
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Cut mozzarella sticks into chunks. Form meatballs around cheese pieces, sealing tightly.
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Place meatballs on a greased wire rack and smoke for 35–40 minutes.
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While smoking, mix BBQ sauce, honey, and brown sugar for the glaze.
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Brush meatballs with glaze, then smoke for 10 more minutes or until internal temp reaches 165°F (74°C).
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Let rest briefly, then serve hot with extra sauce.
Notes
Seal meatballs well to avoid cheese leaks.
Chill mixture for easier shaping.
Use hickory or applewood chips for the best smoky flavor.
No smoker? Use indirect heat on a grill with wood chips.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Smoking
- Cuisine: American, BBQ