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These BBQ Bacon Cheddar Bombs are a crowd-pleasing snack perfect for parties or casual get-togethers. Juicy meatballs with melted cheddar cheese are wrapped in crispy bacon and slathered with tangy BBQ sauce, creating a delicious treat that hits all the right flavor notes in every bite.
Ingredients
- One pound ground beef: choose an 80/20 blend for juiciness and flavor
- Half a cup BBQ sauce: for that tangy glaze to keep the meat moist
- Half a cup grated sharp cheddar cheese: to add rich, melty creaminess inside
- One teaspoon garlic powder: for subtle savory depth
- One teaspoon onion powder: to enhance the meaty taste
- Quarter teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper: for bright seasoning
- Half a teaspoon kosher salt: to bring out all the flavors
- Twelve strips thick-cut bacon: thick slices stay crispy and don’t fall apart during cooking
- Twelve toothpicks: to securely wrap each meatball—soak them in water if grilling to prevent burning
- Optional toppings: like extra BBQ sauce for dipping, diced green onions for freshness, and pickled jalapeños for a spicy kick
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Sear the Setup:
- Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit and line a baking sheet with foil or parchment paper. Place a wire rack on top to promote crisping on all sides. For grilling, heat the grill to 375 degrees and lightly oil the grates so nothing sticks.
- Mix the Meatball Ingredients:
- In a large bowl, gently combine ground beef, grated cheddar cheese, BBQ sauce, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Mix just enough to bring everything together while keeping the texture tender and juicy.
- Shape into Meatballs:
- Divide the mixture into 12 equal portions by halving, then dividing each half into six. Wet your hands with cold water if the mixture is sticky, then roll each portion into a tight 1.5 inch ball.
- Wrap with Bacon:
- Take one bacon strip and wrap it around each meatball so the ends slightly overlap and the surface is fully covered. Use a soaked toothpick to hold everything in place.
- Cook the Bombs:
- If grilling, place the meatballs on the grill and close the lid. Cook for 15 to 20 minutes, turning occasionally to get an even crisp on all sides. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the center reaches 160 degrees Fahrenheit. Watch out for flare-ups caused by dripping fat and move meatballs as needed. On the oven side, place them on the wire rack and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, flipping once halfway through.
- Rest and Serve:
- Transfer the cooked meatballs onto paper towels to absorb extra grease. Let them rest for 5 minutes to lock in juiciness. Remove toothpicks before serving or warn guests. Garnish with diced green onions and offer extra BBQ sauce on the side for dipping.
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Storage Tips Store leftover bacon bombs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in a hot oven or air fryer to bring back the crispiness of the bacon rather than microwaving which can turn it soggy.
Ingredient Substitutions Feel free to swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option—add a bit more BBQ sauce to keep it moist. Smoked cheddar can replace sharp cheddar if you want a deeper smoky flavor. You can also add a splash of liquid smoke to the BBQ sauce if you love smoky notes.
Serving Suggestions These meatballs pair wonderfully with classic coleslaw or a simple green salad to balance richness. Serve alongside pickles and crusty bread to make it feel like a BBQ feast. Toss in some jalapeños or hot sauce if you enjoy a spicy bite.
Cultural/Historical Context Bacon-wrapped bites have long been popular in American BBQ culture as party snacks because they combine hearty, smoky, and gooey flavors into bite-sized delights. They’re a natural evolution of classic meatball recipes with the grilling traditions of southern American cuisine.
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Frequently Asked Questions
- → What type of meat is best for these meatballs?
Using an 80/20 ground beef blend ensures juicy meatballs with ideal fat content for flavor and moisture.
- → Can I cook them on the grill instead of the oven?
Yes, preheat the grill to 375°F, oil grates lightly, and cook the bacon-wrapped meatballs for 15-20 minutes, turning for even crisping.
- → How do I prevent flare-ups while grilling?
Move meatballs away from flare-ups caused by dripping bacon fat to avoid burning and uneven cooking.
- → Is it necessary to use toothpicks when wrapping bacon?
Toothpicks secure the bacon wrapper during cooking and help maintain the shape, especially on the grill.
- → What are good garnish options to complement the flavors?
Diced green onions add freshness, while pickled jalapeños offer a spicy kick that pairs well with the smoky BBQ and cheddar.
- → Can I prepare these ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the meatballs and store them refrigerated before cooking, making party prep easier.