Smoked Italian Meatballs

These Smoked Italian Meatballs are juicy, flavorful, and infused with a rich, smoky aroma that takes them to the next level. Whether served over pasta, in a sub sandwich, or as a party appetizer, these tender meatballs are packed with Italian herbs, cheese, and a hint of smoky goodness. Perfect for smoking on a pellet grill or traditional smoker, this recipe will become a favorite for BBQ lovers and Italian food fans alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Smoky & Juicy – Slow smoking adds incredible depth of flavor.
• Simple Ingredients – Made with classic Italian flavors and pantry staples.
• Versatile – Serve with pasta, on sandwiches, or as a protein-packed snack.
• Perfect for Meal Prep – Make ahead and freeze for quick meals.
• Easy to Smoke – Works on pellet grills, charcoal smokers, or gas grills with a smoke box.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Ground beef (80/20 blend)
• Ground pork (for extra juiciness)
• Eggs
• Italian breadcrumbs
• Parmesan cheese (grated)
• Garlic (minced)
• Onion (grated or finely chopped)
• Fresh parsley (chopped)
• Dried oregano
• Dried basil
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• Worcestershire sauce
• Whole milk (to keep them moist)
• Olive oil (for brushing)

Directions

1. Preheat the Smoker

• Set your smoker or pellet grill to 225°F.
• Use hickory, cherry, or oak wood for the best smoky flavor.

2. Make the Meatball Mixture

• In a large bowl, combine ground beef, ground pork, eggs, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, garlic, onion, parsley, oregano, basil, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes.
• Add Worcestershire sauce and milk, then mix until just combined (don’t overwork the meat).

3. Form the Meatballs

• Roll the mixture into 1 ½-inch meatballs and place them on a parchment-lined tray.
• Lightly brush each meatball with olive oil to help them brown.

4. Smoke the Meatballs

• Place the meatballs directly on the smoker grates or on a wire rack.
• Smoke at 225°F for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F.

5. Serve & Enjoy

• Remove from the smoker and let them rest for 5 minutes.
• Serve with marinara sauce, pasta, or on toasted sub rolls.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4-6
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 1.5 to 2 hours
• Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Meatballs – Add extra red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce.
• Cheesy Meatballs – Stuff each meatball with a small cube of mozzarella before smoking.
• Keto-Friendly – Use almond flour instead of breadcrumbs.
• Turkey Meatballs – Swap beef and pork for ground turkey or chicken.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Freeze raw or cooked meatballs for up to 3 months.
• Reheating:
  • Oven – Bake at 350°F for 10 minutes.
  • Microwave – Heat in 30-second bursts until warm.
  • Sauce Simmer – Warm in marinara sauce over low heat.

FAQs

What’s the best wood for smoking meatballs?

Hickory, cherry, oak, or apple wood provide the best flavor.

Can I smoke meatballs at a higher temperature?

Yes! Smoke at 275°F for about 1 hour to cook them faster.

How do I keep smoked meatballs from drying out?

Use a mix of beef and pork, don’t overwork the meat, and add a little milk for moisture.

Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?

Yes! You can prep and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before smoking.

Do I need to flip the meatballs while smoking?

No, the indirect heat cooks them evenly without flipping.

Can I use store-bought meatballs?

Yes, but homemade has the best flavor. If using frozen, thaw first before smoking.

How do I get a nice crust on my smoked meatballs?

Brush with olive oil and let them smoke longer at 225-250°F.

Can I make these in an oven instead of a smoker?

Yes! Bake at 400°F for 20-25 minutes, but you’ll miss the smoky flavor.

What sauces pair well with smoked meatballs?

Marinara, BBQ sauce, garlic butter, or a creamy Alfredo sauce all work great.

Can I serve these at a party?

Yes! Keep them warm in a slow cooker with marinara sauce for an easy party appetizer.

Conclusion

Smoked Italian Meatballs are an easy, flavorful upgrade from traditional meatballs, with a rich, smoky taste and juicy texture. Perfect for pasta, subs, or on their own, they bring a whole new level of deliciousness to Italian cooking. Fire up the smoker and enjoy restaurant-quality meatballs right at home!

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