Meatball Subs
A classic way to enjoy meatballs is in a sub sandwich. To make meatball subs:
- Slice a submarine roll in half horizontally. Scoop out some of the bread from the top half to make room for the meatballs.
- Place barbecue meatballs inside the submarine roll. Top with shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Add your favorite sub toppings like lettuce, tomato, onion, banana peppers, etc.
- Drizzle the sub with Italian dressing or barbecue sauce.
- Wrap the loaded sub in foil and bake at 375°F for 10 minutes to melt the cheese.
- Serve warm with extra napkins – these subs can get messy!
Meatball Pizza
Leftover meatballs can also be repurposed into meatball pizza:
- Preheat oven to 425°F. Place a pre-baked 12-inch pizza crust on a baking sheet.
- Spread pizza sauce evenly over the crust, leaving a 1/2 inch border.
- Cut the barbecue meatballs in halves or quarters and scatter them over the pizza sauce.
- Top with mozzarella cheese, mushrooms, peppers, onions, etc.
- Bake pizza for 12-15 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Finish with freshly grated parmesan cheese and chopped basil.
Meatball Casserole
For a hearty baked dish, turn those meatballs into a cheesy meatball casserole:
- In a 9×13 baking dish, scatter leftover barbecue meatballs in an even layer.
- In a medium bowl, mix together marinara sauce, shredded mozzarella, and parmesan cheese.
- Pour the cheese sauce over the meatballs.
- If desired, add a layer of cooked penne pasta on top.
- Cover tightly with foil and bake at 375°F for 30 minutes.
- Remove foil and bake 10 more minutes to brown the cheese.
- Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
Meatball Soup
Meatballs can also be simmered into a hearty soup:
- In a Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Cook onions and garlic until softened.
- Add diced carrots, celery, tomato paste, chicken broth, bay leaf, oregano, salt, and pepper. Let simmer.
- Add halved barbecue meatballs and simmer 15-20 more minutes.
- Stir in chopped kale and cooked pasta shells or torn bread pieces.
- Adjust seasoning to taste. Ladle soup into bowls and garnish with parmesan cheese.
Meatball Skewers
For fun finger food, thread those meatballs onto skewers for appetizers:
- Soak bamboo skewers in water 30 minutes to prevent burning.
- Thread barbecue meatballs tightly onto skewers, leaving a tiny space between each.
- Brush with barbecue sauce or Italian dressing.
- Grill meatball skewers on medium heat for 6-8 minutes until heated through, turning frequently.
- Sprinkle with sesame seeds and green onions before serving.
Meatball Sandwiches
Another simple preparation is meatball sandwiches:
- Split a soft roll in half and lightly toast.
- Place several warm barbecue meatballs inside the roll.
- Top with marinara sauce and melted provolone or mozzarella cheese.
- Add banana peppers, spinach, or other favorite sandwich toppings.
Meatball Pasta Bake
Bake your leftover meatballs into a flavorful pasta casserole:
- Cook pasta like ziti, rigatoni or penne according to package directions.
- In a baking dish, layer cooked pasta, barbecue meatballs, marinara sauce, and shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Cover with foil and bake at 400°F for 20 minutes until hot and bubbly.
- Uncover and bake 5 more minutes to brown the cheese.
- Sprinkle with chopped Italian parsley before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions About Leftover BBQ Meatballs
How long do leftover BBQ meatballs last in the fridge?
Cooked meatballs can be stored covered in the refrigerator 3-4 days. Reheat them thoroughly before eating.
Can you freeze leftover BBQ meatballs?
Yes,freeze leftover cooked meatballs in an airtight container up to 2-3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before using.
What’s the best way to reheat BBQ meatballs?
For moist meatballs, reheat them in the microwave with a splash of sauce or broth. Or simmer them gently on the stovetop in sauce.
How do you keep BBQ meatballs from drying out?
Store meatballs covered with broth or sauce. When reheating, add extra sauce and don’t overcook. Simmering in sauce keeps them moist.
Can you reheat BBQ meatballs on the grill?
Yes, wrap meatballs in foil with sauce. Grill over medium heat for 15-20 minutes, turning occasionally until heated through. The grill gives added smoky flavor.
What dishes freeze well with BBQ meatballs?
Meatball subs, meatball skewers, meatball pizza, meatball casseroles and meatball soup all freeze well for later use. Allow to thaw in fridge before reheating.
Conclusion
Leftover barbecue meatballs are an amazing building block for making quick, delicious meals. From meatball subs and pizza to casseroles, pasta bakes, and soups, the possibilities are endless. Repurposing the meatballs reduces food waste while also saving time in the kitchen. With a little creativity, you can give new life to leftover meatballs in many crowd-pleasing dishes that make easy family meals or appetizers for your next gathering.