Barbecue Meatball Avocado Bowls (Printable Recipe)
Juicy barbecue meatballs meet creamy avocado sauce in a satisfying, customizable dinner bowl.
# Ingredients You'll Need:
→ For the Meatballs
01 -
1 pound ground beef or a mix of beef and pork
02 -
1/4 cup breadcrumbs (use gluten-free if needed)
03 -
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
04 -
1 large egg
05 -
2 cloves garlic, minced
06 -
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
07 -
1/2 teaspoon salt
08 -
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
09 -
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
→ For the Barbecue Sauce
10 -
1 cup barbecue sauce
11 -
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
12 -
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
→ For the Avocado Goddess Sauce
13 -
1 ripe avocado
14 -
1/4 cup Greek yogurt or sour cream
15 -
1 tablespoon lemon juice
16 -
1 clove garlic, minced
17 -
2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro or parsley
18 -
Salt and pepper to taste
19 -
Water to thin as needed
→ For the Bowls
20 -
2 cups cooked rice (white, brown, or cauliflower)
21 -
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
22 -
1 cup shredded lettuce or baby spinach
23 -
1/2 cup corn kernels
# Steps to Follow:
01 -
In a mixing bowl, combine ground meat, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, egg, garlic, paprika, salt, pepper, and parsley. Mix gently until just combined and form into 1 1/2-inch balls.
02 -
Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add meatballs and brown on all sides, cooking for 8 to 10 minutes until fully cooked. Remove from skillet.
03 -
In the same skillet, stir together barbecue sauce, apple cider vinegar, and paprika. Return meatballs to the pan, toss to coat, and simmer for 3 to 5 minutes.
04 -
Combine avocado, yogurt, lemon juice, garlic, herbs, salt, and pepper in a blender. Blend until smooth, adding water as needed for a creamy consistency.
05 -
Divide rice between bowls. Top with lettuce, corn, tomatoes, and barbecue meatballs. Drizzle with avocado goddess sauce before serving.
# Extra Tips:
01 -
For dairy-free adaptation, substitute Greek yogurt with a plant-based alternative or use extra avocado.
02 -
Meatballs can be baked at 400°F for 15–20 minutes, turning halfway through.
03 -
Store avocado sauce with plastic wrap pressed on the surface to avoid browning.
04 -
Customize the bowl with black beans, quinoa, or spicy seasoning like chipotle powder.