Barbecue Meatball Bowls with Avocado Goddess Sauce

Healthy, wholesome Barbecue Meatball Bowls with Avocado Goddess Sauce are a delightful and colorful meal option perfect for any occasion. Packed with protein, healthy fats, fiber, and complex carbs, these bowls will keep you fueled throughout the day. The combination of spicy barbecue meatballs, roasted sweet potatoes, quinoa, and a creamy avocado goddess sauce creates an explosion of flavor that is both satisfying and healthy.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavorful and Satisfying: Each bowl is filled with delicious ingredients that offer a burst of taste in every bite.
• Nutrient-Packed: Loaded with protein, fiber, and essential vitamins from fresh veggies and healthy fats from avocado.
• Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for both novice cooks and experienced chefs.
• Versatile Meal: Enjoy it for lunch or dinner; this dish is great for meal prepping or serving at gatherings.
• Colorful Presentation: The vibrant colors of the ingredients make this dish as visually appealing as it is tasty.

Tools and Preparation

Preparing these bowls requires some handy kitchen tools to make the process smooth and efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large oven-safe skillet
• Baking sheets
• Mixing bowls
• Food processor

Importance of Each Tool

• Large oven-safe skillet: Ideal for browning meatballs before baking them to perfection.
• Baking sheets: Essential for roasting vegetables evenly in the oven.
• Mixing bowls: Necessary for combining ingredients without making a mess.
• Food processor: Makes blending the avocado goddess sauce quick and easy.

Ingredients

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 Vegetables

• 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

How to Make Barbecue Meatball Bowls with Avocado Goddess Sauce

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).

Step 2: Prepare the Meatballs

In a mixing bowl:
* Combine the beef with dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, egg, Panko, smoked paprika, oregano, basil, and minced garlic.
* Mix by hand until well combined.
* Roll into 16 balls and place on a plate.

In a large oven-safe skillet:
* Warm two teaspoons of olive oil over medium heat.
* Add the meatballs once the oil shimmers.
* Brown them for a couple of minutes until golden on all sides.

Step 3: Bake the Meatballs

Transfer the skillet into the preheated oven. Bake for 15 minutes.

Step 4: Roast Sweet Potatoes and Broccoli

While meatballs are baking:
* Place sweet potatoes on one baking sheet and broccoli on another.
* Drizzle sweet potatoes with 2 tablespoons of olive oil; sprinkle with salt and pepper. Toss to coat evenly.
* Arrange both vegetables in an even layer. Roast broccoli for 20 minutes and sweet potatoes for 25–30 minutes until tender.

Step 5: Combine Barbecue Sauce Ingredients

In a bowl:
* Whisk together barbecue sauce, balsamic vinegar, tamari, and water.
Once meatballs are done baking:
* Pour the prepared sauce over them in the skillet.
Cook on stovetop until heated through and slightly thickened around meatballs.

Step 6: Make Avocado Goddess Sauce

In a food processor:
* Combine avocado, Greek yogurt, lime juice, garlic, salt, and fresh herbs.
Blend until smooth.

Step 7: Serve Your Bowls

To serve:
Divide cooked quinoa or brown rice among bowls. Top with roasted sweet potatoes and broccoli. Add barbecue meatballs followed by dollops of avocado goddess sauce. Enjoy your nutritious meal!

How to Serve Barbecue Meatball Bowls with Avocado Goddess Sauce

Serving Barbecue Meatball Bowls with Avocado Goddess Sauce can elevate your meal experience. Here are some creative ways to present and enjoy this delicious dish.

Bowl Pairings

• Fresh Greens: Add a handful of mixed greens to your bowl for extra crunch and freshness.
• Avocado Slices: Top your bowl with additional avocado slices for a creamy texture.
• Chopped Nuts or Seeds: Sprinkle some toasted nuts or seeds for added protein and crunch.

Garnishes

• Cilantro or Parsley: Fresh herbs brighten the flavor and add a pop of color.
• Lime Wedges: A squeeze of lime juice enhances the flavors and adds brightness.
• Hot Sauce: For those who love heat, drizzle some hot sauce on top for an extra kick.

Custom Sauces

• Extra Barbecue Sauce: Offer additional barbecue sauce on the side for guests who want more sweetness.
• Spicy Aioli: Serve with a spicy aioli for a creamy, zesty contrast.

How to Perfect Barbecue Meatball Bowls with Avocado Goddess Sauce

Perfecting Barbecue Meatball Bowls with Avocado Goddess Sauce is all about balancing flavors and textures. Here are some tips to make your dish shine.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh herbs and vegetables to enhance the overall flavor profile.
• Adjust Seasonings: Taste as you go; adjust salt, pepper, or spices based on your preference after cooking the meatballs.
• Cook Quinoa Properly: Rinse quinoa before cooking to remove bitterness, ensuring a nutty flavor in your bowls.
• Let Meatballs Rest: Allow meatballs to rest before serving. This helps retain moisture and improves texture.
• Experiment with Toppings: Try adding different toppings like feta cheese or cherry tomatoes for variety in taste and presentation.
• Make Ahead: Prepare components ahead of time, storing them separately in the fridge. Assemble when ready to serve for easy meal prep.

Best Side Dishes for Barbecue Meatball Bowls with Avocado Goddess Sauce

Complementing your main dish with suitable sides can elevate the meal’s experience. Here are some great options that pair well with Barbecue Meatball Bowls with Avocado Goddess Sauce.

1. Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal roasted vegetables adds color and nutrition while enhancing flavors.
2. Garlic Bread: Warm garlic bread provides a crunchy contrast that complements the saucy meatballs beautifully.
3. Corn Salad: A fresh corn salad with tomatoes and onions offers sweetness that balances the savory elements of the bowl.
4. Couscous Salad: Light and fluffy couscous mixed with herbs can serve as a refreshing side that fills you up without overpowering the main dish.
5. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw provides a crunchy texture that contrasts nicely with soft ingredients in the bowl.
6. Grilled Asparagus: Lightly grilled asparagus adds a smoky flavor while keeping things healthy and colorful.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Barbecue Meatball Bowls with Avocado Goddess Sauce can be delightful, but avoiding common mistakes is key to achieving the best results.

• Using Lean Meat Only: Using only lean ground beef may make the meatballs dry. Opt for a mix of lean and slightly fattier cuts for better moisture and flavor.
• Overmixing the Meatballs: Overmixing can lead to tough meatballs. Mix just until combined to keep them tender.
• Skipping Sweet Potato Prep: Not dicing sweet potatoes uniformly can result in uneven cooking. Ensure all pieces are similar in size for consistent roasting.
• Ignoring Seasoning Adjustments: Each barbecue sauce has a different flavor profile. Taste your sauce and adjust seasoning accordingly to enhance flavors.
• Not Preheating the Oven: Skipping preheating can affect cooking times and texture. Always preheat your oven for even cooking results.
• Using Unripe Avocados: An unripe avocado will make your sauce grainy. Choose a ripe avocado for a smooth, creamy texture in your goddess sauce.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in airtight containers.
• Consume within 3-4 days for best quality.

Freezing Barbecue Meatball Bowls with Avocado Goddess Sauce

• Freeze individual portions in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Best used within 2-3 months for optimal flavor.

Reheating Barbecue Meatball Bowls with Avocado Goddess Sauce

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil. Heat for about 20 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Transfer to a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat in a skillet, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent sticking. Cook until heated thoroughly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Barbecue Meatball Bowls with Avocado Goddess Sauce.

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes! Ground turkey is a great substitute that will still keep your meatballs flavorful and healthy.

How can I customize the Avocado Goddess Sauce?

Feel free to add different herbs like cilantro or parsley, or even a touch of jalapeño for some heat!

What is the best way to cook sweet potatoes?

Roasting is ideal as it brings out their natural sweetness. Just ensure they are cut evenly for consistent cooking.

How long will leftovers last?

Stored properly in the fridge, leftovers can last up to 3-4 days, while frozen portions maintain quality for 2-3 months.

Final Thoughts

These Barbecue Meatball Bowls with Avocado Goddess Sauce are not just mouthwatering; they also offer versatility! Customize it with different vegetables or grains based on your preferences and enjoy a nutritious meal that satisfies every time. Don’t hesitate to try this recipe at home!

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Barbecue Meatball Bowls with Avocado Goddess Sauce

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• Author: Alexia
• Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Enjoy vibrant Barbecue Meatball Bowls with Avocado Goddess Sauce! Packed with flavor and nutrition, it’s time to elevate your meal prep today!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 pound (454 grams) ground sirloin or lean/extra-lean ground beef
• 1 tablespoon dijon mustard
• 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
• 2/3 cup barbecue sauce
• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
• 3 tablespoons water
• 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
• 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)
• 4 cups cooked quinoa or brown rice

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Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Combine ground beef with dijon mustard, salt, pepper, egg, Panko, smoked paprika, oregano, basil, and minced garlic in a mixing bowl. Mix well and form into 16 meatballs.
3. Brown meatballs in an oven-safe skillet over medium heat with olive oil for a few minutes until golden.
4. Bake the meatballs for 15 minutes.
5. On separate baking sheets, toss diced sweet potatoes and broccoli with olive oil; roast sweet potatoes for 25-30 minutes and broccoli for 20 minutes until tender.
6. Whisk together barbecue sauce ingredients and pour over the baked meatballs on the stovetop until heated through.
7. Blend avocado goddess sauce ingredients in a food processor until smooth.
8. Serve bowls by layering cooked quinoa or brown rice with roasted vegetables, barbecue meatballs, and dollops of avocado goddess sauce.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 bowl (approximately 400g)
• Calories: 550
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 640mg
• Fat: 21g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 15g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 66g
• Fiber: 12g
• Protein: 30g
• Cholesterol: 70mg