12 Seafood Meatball Recipes That Are Perfect For Backyard BBQs

There’s something magical about biting into a tender, juicy meatball—especially when it’s made with fresh seafood and packed with bold, smoky flavors perfect for grilling season. Whether you’re hosting a laid-back cookout, a seaside gathering, or just craving something beyond the usual beef or pork, these seafood meatballs bring a delicious twist to your BBQ spread. Imagine plump shrimp and crab balls with a hint of Old Bay, charred salmon meatballs glazed in sticky-sweet teriyaki, or spicy Cajun-style tuna patties sizzling over an open flame.

Seafood meatballs are lighter than traditional versions but just as satisfying, offering a briny sweetness that pairs perfectly with zesty sauces, fresh herbs, and a squeeze of lemon. They’re versatile, too—skewer them for easy flipping, pile them onto sliders with tangy remoulade, or serve them as elegant appetizers with a cool dipping sauce. And the best part? They cook up fast, leaving you more time to enjoy the party.

In this roundup, we’ve gathered 12 irresistible recipes that cover everything from classic Italian-inspired fish meatballs to bold Thai curry-infused bites. Whether you’re grilling, baking, or pan-searing, these seafood meatballs promise big flavor with minimal fuss. So fire up the grill, grab a cold drink, and get ready to impress your guests with these mouthwatering, surf-inspired twists on a backyard favorite.

Cilantro Lime White Fish Meatballs

Cilantro Lime White Fish Meatballs are a refreshing twist on traditional meatballs, perfect for summer BBQs. Packed with the vibrant flavors of cilantro and zesty lime, these meatballs are light, juicy, and incredibly satisfying.

They are simple to make, requiring just a few ingredients to come together. Whether served as an appetizer or part of a main dish, these meatballs bring a taste of the coast to your backyard gathering.

Ingredients

• 1 lb white fish (like cod or tilapia), finely chopped
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1/4 cup onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 large egg
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• 1 teaspoon lime zest
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Olive oil for frying
• Optional: Lime wedges and extra cilantro for garnish

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine the chopped fish, breadcrumbs, cilantro, onion, garlic, egg, lime juice, lime zest, cumin, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
2. Form the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.
3. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs and cook for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through.
4. Serve warm, garnished with lime wedges and extra cilantro if desired.

Tuna and Quinoa Meatballs

Tuna and quinoa meatballs are a tasty and healthy option for your next backyard BBQ. They combine the rich, savory flavor of tuna with the nutty texture of quinoa, creating a dish that’s not only satisfying but also packed with protein. These meatballs are super simple to prepare, making them perfect for feeding a crowd without spending all day in the kitchen.

The blend of spices and herbs adds a burst of flavor, ensuring each bite is delicious. Whether served on their own, as sliders, or with a zesty dipping sauce, these meatballs are sure to impress your guests and keep everyone coming back for more!

Ingredients

• 1 can (15 oz) tuna, drained and flaked
• 1 cup cooked quinoa
• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Olive oil for frying

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine the flaked tuna, cooked quinoa, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, garlic, egg, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are combined.
2. Form the mixture into meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.
3. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs in batches, cooking until golden brown on all sides, about 8-10 minutes.
4. Transfer cooked meatballs to a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess oil.
5. Serve warm, paired with your favorite dipping sauce or on a bun with fresh veggies.

Herbed Salmon and Dill Meatballs

Herbed salmon and dill meatballs are a fresh and tasty addition to any backyard BBQ. These little bites are packed with flavor, featuring the delightful combination of flaky salmon and aromatic dill, making them a crowd-pleaser. Plus, they’re super easy to whip up, so you can spend more time enjoying the sunshine with your friends and family.

The lightness of the salmon is perfectly complemented by the herbs, creating a dish that’s not only delicious but also healthy. Pair them with a creamy sauce or a squeeze of lemon for a zesty finish. Get ready to impress your guests with these simple yet flavorful meatballs!

Ingredients

• 1 pound fresh salmon fillets, skin removed
• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 1 egg
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Lemon wedges for serving

Instructions

1. Preheat your grill to medium heat.
2. In a food processor, pulse the salmon until finely chopped. In a large bowl, combine the salmon, breadcrumbs, parmesan, dill, garlic, lemon zest, and egg. Mix well and season with salt and pepper.
3. Form the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.
4. Heat olive oil on the grill grates or in a grill pan. Cook the meatballs for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until they’re golden brown and cooked through.
5. Serve warm with lemon wedges.

Lemon Garlic Fish Meatballs

Lemon Garlic Fish Meatballs are a delightful dish that brings a burst of zesty flavor to any BBQ. These meatballs are light, tender, and infused with fresh lemon and garlic, making them a perfect addition to your summer cookouts. They are not only simple to make but also a crowd-pleaser, as the flavors are refreshing and appealing to both seafood lovers and those new to fish dishes.

With a combination of flaky fish, breadcrumbs, and herbs, these meatballs are easy to whip up and can be grilled or baked. Serve them with a squeeze of lemon or a tangy dipping sauce for an extra touch. Your guests will love these tasty bites!

Ingredients

• 1 lb white fish fillets (like cod or haddock), finely chopped
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 large egg
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

1. Prepare the Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the chopped fish, breadcrumbs, parsley, garlic, egg, lemon zest, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
2. Form the Meatballs: Using your hands, form the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.
3. Cook the Meatballs: Preheat your grill or oven. If grilling, place the meatballs directly on the grill and cook for about 10 minutes, turning occasionally, until fully cooked. If baking, preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake for 15-20 minutes until golden and cooked through.
4. Serve: Remove from the grill or oven, serve warm with lemon wedges on the side for extra zest.

Sweet and Spicy Scallop Meatballs

Sweet and spicy scallop meatballs are a delightful twist for your barbecue gatherings. These juicy, tender meatballs pack a punch with their unique combination of flavors, making them a hit among seafood lovers and those looking to spice things up at their next cookout.

Simple to prepare, these meatballs are a breeze to whip up, requiring just a few fresh ingredients and some straightforward steps. The result is a tasty treat that will have everyone coming back for seconds!

Ingredients

• 1 pound fresh scallops, chopped
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped green onions
• 1 egg, beaten
• 2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions

1. Mix the Ingredients: In a bowl, combine the chopped scallops, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, green onions, beaten egg, sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, garlic powder, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
2. Form the Meatballs: Shape the mixture into small balls, about one inch in diameter, and place them on a greased baking sheet.
3. Grill: Preheat your grill to medium heat. Once ready, place the meatballs on the grill and cook for about 10-12 minutes, turning them halfway through until they are cooked through and have nice grill marks.
4. Serve: Remove from the grill and garnish with fresh cilantro. Serve warm with extra sweet chili sauce for dipping.

Smoked Cod and Potato Meatballs

Smoked cod and potato meatballs are a delightful twist on traditional meatballs, combining the rich, smoky flavor of cod with the creamy texture of potatoes. These meatballs are not only tasty but also easy to prepare, making them perfect for any backyard BBQ. The combination of flavors creates a unique dish that will impress your guests.

With a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a batch of these delicious meatballs in no time. They can be grilled or baked, and their versatility means they pair well with a variety of dipping sauces or sides. Enjoy the smoky goodness!

Ingredients

• 1 pound smoked cod, flaked
• 2 cups mashed potatoes
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 large egg
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Olive oil for drizzling

Instructions

1. Preheat your grill or oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine flaked smoked cod, mashed potatoes, breadcrumbs, parsley, garlic powder, onion powder, and the egg. Mix until well combined. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Form the mixture into meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.
4. If grilling, place the meatballs on a grilling tray and drizzle with olive oil. If baking, arrange them on a lined baking sheet and drizzle the tops with olive oil.
5. Cook for about 15-20 minutes, turning halfway through, until golden brown and cooked through.

Spicy Shrimp and Crab Meatballs

These spicy shrimp and crab meatballs are a delightful mix of flavors that bring a taste of the sea right to your backyard BBQ. With a perfect blend of shrimp and crab, they pack a punch with a hint of spice, making them a crowd-pleaser at any gathering. They’re easy to whip up and can be served with a delicious dipping sauce, making them a fun finger food.

Not only are these meatballs bursting with flavor, but they also have a lovely texture that’s sure to impress your guests. Serve them alongside some fresh herbs and a tangy sauce for an added zing. Perfect for summer BBQs or any festive occasion!

Ingredients

• 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1/2 pound crab meat
• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 egg
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a food processor, combine shrimp, crab meat, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, Old Bay seasoning, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Pulse until well mixed but still chunky.
3. Form the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter, and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through.
5. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce.

Mahi Mahi and Avocado Meatballs

These Mahi Mahi and Avocado meatballs bring a fresh twist to your BBQ spread. The flaky, mild Mahi Mahi pairs perfectly with the creamy texture of avocado, creating a delightful balance of flavors that’s both light and satisfying. Plus, they’re easy to whip up, making them ideal for casual gatherings or backyard barbecues.

With a zesty kick from lime and a hint of herbs, these meatballs are bursting with flavor. Drizzled with a creamy avocado sauce, they’re not just tasty but also visually appealing. Whether served as an appetizer or a main dish, they are sure to impress your guests.

Ingredients

• 1 pound Mahi Mahi fillets, finely chopped
• 1 ripe avocado, mashed
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1 egg, beaten
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat your grill to medium heat.
2. In a large bowl, combine the chopped Mahi Mahi, mashed avocado, breadcrumbs, cilantro, beaten egg, garlic powder, onion powder, lime juice, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
3. Shape the mixture into meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.
4. Grill the meatballs for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until cooked through and golden brown.
5. Serve hot, drizzled with extra avocado sauce or lime wedges on the side.

Baked Clam and Chorizo Meatballs

Baked clam and chorizo meatballs offer a delightful twist on traditional meatballs that will impress your guests at any backyard BBQ. The combination of tender clams and spicy chorizo creates a unique flavor profile that’s both savory and satisfying. Plus, they are surprisingly easy to prepare, making them a perfect choice for a casual gathering.

The meatballs are baked to perfection, allowing them to develop a nice golden crust while remaining juicy on the inside. Paired with a zesty dipping sauce, these meatballs are sure to be a hit. They’re great as an appetizer or can even be served with crusty bread for a more filling option.

Ingredients

• 1 pound fresh clams, cleaned and chopped
• 8 ounces chorizo, casings removed
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine the chopped clams, chorizo, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, garlic, egg, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
3. Form the mixture into golf ball-sized meatballs and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the meatballs are cooked through and golden brown.
5. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce and enjoy!

Coconut Curry Crab Meatballs

Coconut Curry Crab Meatballs are a fun twist on traditional seafood recipes. Bursting with flavors, they offer a delightful blend of sweet coconut and spicy curry that will leave your taste buds dancing. These meatballs are not only tasty but also simple to prepare, making them perfect for backyard BBQs or casual gatherings.

With the crab meat providing a tender texture and the coconut adding a creamy richness, these meatballs shine when served with a tangy dipping sauce. They are sure to impress your guests and are easy enough for even novice cooks to whip up. Let’s get cooking!

Ingredients

• 1 pound fresh crab meat
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated coconut
• 1/4 cup green onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon curry powder
• 1 egg, beaten
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Vegetable oil for frying

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine crab meat, breadcrumbs, grated coconut, green onions, garlic, curry powder, and the beaten egg. Season with salt and pepper. Mix until well combined.
2. Shape the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.
3. Heat vegetable oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Fry the meatballs in batches until golden brown, about 4-5 minutes on each side.
4. Once cooked, remove the meatballs and place them on a paper towel to drain excess oil.
5. Serve warm with a dipping sauce of your choice, and enjoy the delicious burst of flavors!

Mediterranean Shrimp Meatballs

Mediterranean shrimp meatballs are a delightful twist on traditional meatballs, bringing a burst of flavor and freshness to your backyard BBQ. These tender, juicy bites combine succulent shrimp with aromatic herbs and spices, making them perfect for dipping or serving on skewers. It’s an easy recipe that even novice cooks can master!

The blend of garlic, parsley, and a hint of lemon gives these meatballs a vibrant Mediterranean flair. They are sure to impress your guests and keep everyone coming back for more. Serve them with a tangy yogurt sauce or a sprinkle of feta for extra flair!

Ingredients

• 1 lb raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 1 egg
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Olive oil for frying

Instructions

1. Chop the shrimp into small pieces and place them in a large bowl.
2. Add breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, garlic, lemon zest, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
3. Shape the mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
4. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs in batches, cooking until golden brown on all sides, about 4-5 minutes.
5. Drain on paper towels and serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce.

Garlic Butter Lobster Meatballs

Garlic Butter Lobster Meatballs are a delightful twist on traditional meatballs, offering a rich, buttery flavor with a hint of oceanic sweetness. These meatballs are moist, tender, and infused with the unmistakable taste of lobster, perfect for impressing your guests at a backyard BBQ.

Simple to make, these meatballs require minimal ingredients and can be grilled or baked to perfection. Pair them with your favorite dipping sauce, and watch as they disappear in no time!

Ingredients

• 1 pound cooked lobster meat, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup minced parsley
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 large egg
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup melted butter

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) or prepare your grill.
2. In a bowl, mix together the lobster meat, breadcrumbs, parsley, garlic, Parmesan cheese, egg, black pepper, and salt until well combined.
3. Form the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.
4. Place the meatballs on a baking sheet or skewers if grilling. Brush with melted butter.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes or grill until they are golden brown and cooked through.
6. Serve warm with extra melted butter for dipping.

Final Thoughts
Backyard BBQs are all about good food, great company, and unforgettable flavors—and these seafood meatballs deliver on all fronts. Light yet hearty, easy but impressive, they’re the perfect way to mix things up at your next cookout. Whether you go for smoky, spicy, or herb-infused, each recipe brings something special to the table. So ditch the ordinary and let seafood take center stage—your grill (and your guests) will thank you!