Barbecue Meatball Bowls with Avocado Goddess Sauce

If you’re looking for a meal that’s not only delicious but also packed with wholesome ingredients, then these Barbecue Meatball Bowls with Avocado Goddess Sauce are just the ticket! This recipe has become a favorite of mine because it’s so vibrant and satisfying. It strikes the perfect balance between comfort food and healthy dining, making it ideal for busy weeknights or family gatherings. The combination of tangy barbecue meatballs, creamy avocado goddess sauce, and colorful veggies creates a bowl that is as pleasing to the eyes as it is to the palate.

These bowls are versatile too! Whether you’re prepping for a quick dinner or planning weekly meals, they’re sure to impress everyone at the table. Trust me; once you try this recipe, you’ll want to keep it in your regular rotation!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: With just a handful of simple steps, you’ll have a delightful meal ready in no time!
• Family-friendly: Everyone loves meatballs! This dish combines flavors and textures that are sure to satisfy picky eaters.
• Nutritious and filling: Packed with protein, fiber, and healthy fats, these bowls will keep you energized throughout the day.
• Customizable: Feel free to mix up the ingredients based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.
• Meal prep friendly: Make a big batch for easy lunches and dinners throughout the week.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering your ingredients is half the fun! This recipe calls for simple, wholesome items that not only taste great but also provide plenty of nutrients. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Meatballs

• 1 pound (454 grams) ground sirloin or lean/extra-lean ground beef
• 1 tablespoon dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1 large egg
• 1/3 cup Panko
• 1 tablespoon dried basil
• 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 large garlic clove, minced

For the Barbecue Sauce

• 2/3 cup barbecue sauce
• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
• 1 tablespoon tamari
• 3 tablespoons water

For the Roasted Veggies

• 4 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced into 1-inch cubes
• 1 bunch of broccoli, cut into medium florets
• 4 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, divided
• Sea salt and pepper, to taste

For the Avocado Goddess Sauce

• 1 ripe avocado
• 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
• Juice of 1 lime
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
• Big handful of fresh herbs (I used a combination of basil and dill)

For Serving

• 4 cups cooked quinoa or brown rice

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Here are some ideas if you want to switch things up:

• Swap the protein: Try using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option.
• Change up the veggies: Feel free to add in other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for extra color and nutrition.
• Make it spicy: Add some red pepper flakes or hot sauce to your barbecue sauce if you like a kick!
• Vegan version: Substitute ground meat with lentils or chickpeas mixed with breadcrumbs for a plant-based twist.

How to Make Barbecue Meatball Bowls with Avocado Goddess Sauce

Step 1: Prepare the Meatballs

Preheat your oven to 425 F. In a mixing bowl, combine the ground beef with dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, salt, black pepper, egg, Panko breadcrumbs, smoked paprika, oregano, basil, and minced garlic. Mixing by hand helps ensure all flavors meld together nicely. Roll this mixture into about 16 meatballs. It’s important that they are evenly sized so they cook at the same rate.

Step 2: Brown the Meatballs

Warm two teaspoons of olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat until it shimmers. Carefully add your meatballs and brown them for about two minutes on each side. This step adds depth of flavor through caramelization—don’t skip it!

Step 3: Bake the Meatballs

Once browned, transfer your skillet directly into the oven and bake for about 15 minutes. This cooking method keeps them juicy while allowing them to fully cook through.

Step 4: Roast Sweet Potatoes and Broccoli

While your meatballs are baking away happily in the oven, prepare sweet potatoes and broccoli. Spread sweet potatoes on one baking sheet and broccoli on another. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper before tossing everything together. Roasting brings out their natural sweetness—yum! The sweet potatoes will take about 25-30 minutes while broccoli needs around 20 minutes.

Step 5: Prepare Barbecue Sauce

In a bowl, whisk together barbecue sauce, balsamic vinegar, tamari, and water until well combined. Once your meatballs finish baking, pour this delicious mixture over them in the skillet. Heat them on the stovetop until the sauce warms up and thickens slightly around those lovely meatballs.

Step 6: Make Avocado Goddess Sauce

In a food processor fitted with an ‘S’ blade (you know that handy attachment!), combine avocado flesh with Greek yogurt, lime juice, garlic clove(s), sea salt, and fresh herbs. Blend until smooth—it should be creamy perfection!

Step 7: Serve It Up!

Now comes my favorite part! Divide cooked quinoa (or brown rice), roasted sweet potatoes & broccoli among bowls. Top each bowl generously with those saucy barbecue meatballs followed by dollops of avocado goddess sauce. Enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Barbecue Meatball Bowls with Avocado Goddess Sauce

Creating the perfect barbecue meatball bowls is all about the details! With a few simple tips, you can elevate this dish to a whole new level of deliciousness.

• Use lean meat: Opt for lean ground beef or sirloin to keep your meatballs juicy without excess fat. This ensures a healthier meal while still being packed with flavor.
• Don’t skip the herbs: Fresh herbs add brightness and depth to your avocado goddess sauce. Experiment with different combinations like cilantro or parsley to find your favorite flavor profile.
• Roast veggies until caramelized: Make sure to roast the sweet potatoes and broccoli until they’re golden and tender. This enhances their natural sweetness and adds wonderful texture to the bowl.
• Adjust the sauce consistency: If you prefer a thicker barbecue sauce, let it simmer longer on the stovetop after adding it to the meatballs. This will help create a rich coating that clings beautifully to each bite.
• Meal prep for busy days: Make extra meatballs and store them in the fridge or freezer for quick meals later. Having these nutritious bowls ready to go saves time during busy weeknights!

How to Serve Barbecue Meatball Bowls with Avocado Goddess Sauce

Serving these barbecue meatball bowls is all about presentation and pairing them with complementary flavors. Here are some ideas to make your meal even more appealing!

Garnishes

• Chopped green onions: These add a fresh crunch and a pop of color, making your bowls visually exciting.
• Sesame seeds: A sprinkle of sesame seeds provides an extra layer of texture and a nutty flavor that pairs wonderfully with the other ingredients.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Breadsticks: Soft, warm breadsticks brushed with garlic-infused olive oil make for an irresistible side that complements the bold flavors of the meatballs.
• Crispy Brussels Sprouts: Roasted Brussels sprouts tossed in balsamic vinegar add a delightful crunch and earthy taste, balancing out the sweetness from the sweet potatoes.
• Simple Garden Salad: A refreshing salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and a light vinaigrette can brighten up your meal while adding freshness.
• Coleslaw: A tangy slaw made from cabbage and carrots brings a crunchy contrast and adds another layer of flavor that works well with the barbecue theme.

Enjoy crafting your beautiful barbecue meatball bowls with avocado goddess sauce! Each element comes together harmoniously for a satisfying meal that’s sure to impress family and friends alike.

Make Ahead and Storage

These Barbecue Meatball Bowls with Avocado Goddess Sauce are perfect for meal prep! You can easily make a big batch and enjoy them throughout the week. Here’s how to store, freeze, and reheat them for maximum freshness.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• They will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days.
• Keep the avocado goddess sauce separate to maintain its vibrant color and flavor.

Freezing

• Allow the meatballs and roasted vegetables to cool completely before freezing.
• Place them in freezer-safe bags or containers, making sure to remove as much air as possible.
• These can be frozen for up to 3 months; just remember to label your containers!

Reheating

• To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge if frozen.
• Heat the meatballs on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or extra barbecue sauce to keep them moist.
• Microwave individual servings in a covered bowl for about 2-3 minutes until heated through.

FAQs

If you have questions about this recipe, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries:

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef for Barbecue Meatball Bowls with Avocado Goddess Sauce?

Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great alternative and will still yield delicious meatballs. Adjust cooking times as necessary since turkey can cook faster than beef.

How long does it take to make Barbecue Meatball Bowls with Avocado Goddess Sauce?

The total time is about 1 hour, including preparation and cooking. It’s a fantastic option for both weeknight dinners and meal prep!

What can I substitute for quinoa in this recipe?

You can easily substitute quinoa with brown rice or cauliflower rice for a lighter option. Both alternatives will complement the meatballs wonderfully!

Can I add other vegetables to my bowls?

Definitely! Feel free to customize your bowls by adding your favorite veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach. Just roast them alongside the sweet potatoes and broccoli.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in creating these Barbecue Meatball Bowls with Avocado Goddess Sauce! They’re not only packed with flavor but also so colorful and nutritious. It’s a recipe that brings comfort while keeping things healthy. Enjoy every bite and don’t hesitate to experiment with different variations. Happy cooking!