Charcoal-Grilled Meat Globes

These luscious smoky meatballs/hamburgers are a relatively-quick meal, providing you start the grill first thing! Maybe even go mow another couple rounds of grass while you wait for the charcoal to burn down to a white-hot shade. (Thawed-out hamburger also proves helpful although the defrost button on the microwave works in a pinch.)

Learning how to grill is on my list of dreams to accomplish. This recipe is one of my personally tried and true on our Weber charcoal grill. To me, these are a simple item for grilling beginners and a breeze for the experts.

So tonight if you need ideas for supper, go check your fridge and pantry for these ingredients!

1. 1-1/4 lbs. hamburger, thawed

2. heaping 1/3 cup quick oats

3. 1/2 to 3/4 sleeve original Ritz crackers, crushed

4. 1 teaspoon chili powder

5. 3/4 teaspoon garlic powder

6. 3/4 teaspoon pepper (or to taste)

7. 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)

8. 1 Tablespoon minced onion flakes

9. 1/2 cup milk

10. 2 eggs

You also will need the following for the BBQ Basting Sauce. It’s a MUST!

1. 1 cup ketchup

2. 1/3 cup brown sugar

3. 1 teaspoon vinegar

4. 1 teaspoon liquid smoke

5. 1/2 teaspoon garlic salt

6. 1/2 teaspoon onion powder

To make the meat globes, combine all 10 ingredients, mixing very well. I often just use my hands to get the spices thoroughly incorporated. Shape meat mixture into 12 globes. (They should look like a cross between a hamburger patty and a meatball.) Set aside.

Mix ingredients for BBQ Basting Sauce in a microwave-safe bowl. After whisking well, heat in microwave for 1-2 minutes.

Once charcoal grill is hot and ready (400º F.), spread out coals into an even layer, and distribute patties over grill rack. Cover grill and let meat cook for 5 minutes. It is important to keep temperature as even as possible, around 400º-425º F. Flip globes over, and brush or spoon on a heavy layer of BBQ sauce. Close lid and cook for another 5-6 minutes. Repeat process 2 more times or until meat globes are thoroughly cooked inside and grilled crisp on the outside.

These are delicious served with Gourmet Potatoes or Cheesy Baked Macaroni, along with a vegetable of choice for a side.

If possible, be sure to use a wood-fired or charcoal grill for that impossibly-delicious smokey flavor that makes these so divine.

Enjoy!