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Fig-Jam BBQ Meatball Sliders

These Fig-Jam BBQ Meatball Sliders are a deliciously unique twist with sweet, smoky fig jam BBQ sauce and juicy meatballs—perfect for any occasion!
Prep Time20 minutes
Cook Time25 minutes
Total Time45 minutes
Course: Main Course
Keyword: BBQ, Easy, Meatballs, Quick, Sliders
Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

  • 1 pound ground beef or turkey
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 cup fig jam
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • slider buns
  • sliced cheese optional, such as cheddar or provolone
  • turkey bacon for garnish, optional

Instructions

Prepare the Meatball Mixture

  • In a large bowl, combine the ground beef or turkey, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix gently until just combined, being careful not to overmix.

Form the Meatballs

  • Shape the mixture into small, evenly sized meatballs about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter, perfect for slider buns.

Cook the Meatballs

  • Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a small amount of oil. Place meatballs in the skillet without overcrowding. Cook for 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until browned and cooked through. Alternatively, bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes.

Make the Fig-Jam BBQ Sauce

  • Whisk together fig jam, Dijon mustard, and Worcestershire sauce in a small bowl to create the sauce.

Combine Meatballs and Sauce

  • Transfer cooked meatballs to the skillet with the fig-jam BBQ sauce. Toss gently to coat and warm through for 2-3 minutes.

Prepare the Slider Buns and Garnishes

  • Cook turkey bacon until crispy if using. Lightly toast slider buns. Add a slice of cheese to buns and melt slightly under a broiler or in the skillet if desired.

Assemble the Sliders

  • Place a few saucy meatballs on each slider bun, add cheese and turkey bacon if desired, then top with the other half of the bun. Serve immediately.

Equipment

  • Large Bowl
  • Skillet
  • Whisk
  • Oven (optional)

Notes

  • Do not overmix the meat mixture to keep meatballs tender.
  • Toast buns lightly to prevent sogginess when adding saucy meatballs.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container, keeping meatballs and buns separate for up to 3 days.
  • Try swapping ground beef or turkey with ground lamb for a richer flavor.
  • Use apricot or peach jam as a substitute if fig jam is unavailable.