BBQ Bacon Cheddar Bombs

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Juicy beef meatballs stuffed with melty cheddar, wrapped in crispy bacon, and glazed in rich BBQ sauce—these bombs explode with flavor!

Introduction

When it comes to comfort food that satisfies your deepest cravings, nothing hits the spot quite like BBQ Bacon Cheddar Bombs. These flavor-packed bites combine the smoky richness of BBQ, the creaminess of cheddar, the salty crunch of bacon, and the hearty satisfaction of juicy beef meatballs. Whether you’re planning a game-day spread, party appetizers, or an indulgent dinner, these meat bombs are bound to steal the show.

In this article, we’ll walk through every delicious detail of this dish—from selecting the right ingredients to mastering the perfect cook—and offer tips, tricks, and serving ideas to elevate your cooking game. Let’s dig in!

Ingredients (U.S. Measuring Cups)

For the Meatballs:

  • 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend recommended for juiciness)

  • ½ cup BBQ sauce (your favorite variety, plus extra for glazing)

  • ½ cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese

  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder

  • 1 teaspoon onion powder

  • ½ teaspoon salt

  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper

For Wrapping:

  • 12 slices thick-cut bacon

  • 12 toothpicks (soaked in water if using a grill to prevent burning)

Optional Garnishes:

  • Additional warm BBQ sauce, for dipping

  • Thinly sliced green onions

  • Pickled jalapeños for a kick

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat Your Oven or Grill

  • Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).

  • If grilling, set grill to medium heat, and prep for indirect cooking.

2. Prepare the Meatball Mixture

  • In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, ½ cup BBQ sauce, cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.

  • Mix gently with clean hands or a spoon until just combined—don’t overmix to avoid tough meatballs.

3. Form the Meatballs

  • Divide mixture into 12 equal portions.

  • Roll each into a tight meatball. Ensure cheese is distributed throughout and not poking out.

4. Wrap Each Ball with Bacon

  • Lay out one slice of bacon per meatball.

  • Wrap tightly around the meatball and secure with a toothpick.

  • Make sure the seam side is on the bottom.

5. Prepare for Cooking

  • Oven: Place the bacon-wrapped meatballs on a wire rack set over a baking sheet (for air circulation and crisping).

  • Grill: Arrange meatballs over indirect heat on the grill.

6. Cook

  • Oven Method: Bake for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway through until bacon is crispy and internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).

  • Grill Method: Grill for 20–25 minutes, turning occasionally for even cooking.

7. Glaze with BBQ Sauce

  • In the final 5 minutes of cooking, brush with extra BBQ sauce.

  • Let the sauce caramelize slightly for sticky, sweet flavor.

8. Rest and Serve

  • Remove toothpicks carefully.

  • Let meatballs rest 5 minutes before serving to allow juices to redistribute.

  • Serve hot with dipping sauces and garnishes of choice.

Preparation Time & Nutrition

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes

  • Cook Time: 25–30 minutes

  • Total Time: 40–45 minutes

  • Calories: Approximately 320 kcal per bomb

Pro Cooking Tips

  • Use Ground Chuck or 80/20 Beef: It provides the perfect balance of moisture and flavor. Leaner blends may result in dryness.

  • Freeze for 10 Minutes Before Cooking: Chilling helps the bombs hold their shape, especially if you prepped them in advance.

  • Use a Wire Rack: Cooking on a wire rack allows heat to circulate evenly, and the bacon crisps up better.

  • Try Variations: Substitute beef with ground turkey or sausage for a different twist. Use smoked gouda, pepper jack, or mozzarella inside for flavor changes.

  • Make it Spicy: Mix a dash of hot sauce into the meat mixture or add sliced jalapeños on top.

  • Meal Prep Friendly: These can be formed ahead and frozen (uncooked or cooked) in airtight containers. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10–15 minutes.

Serving Suggestions

  • Game Day Appetizers: Stack them on skewers or serve in a tray with warm BBQ dip.

  • Sliders: Place each bomb in a small brioche bun with pickles and slaw.

  • BBQ Platter: Serve alongside coleslaw, baked beans, and mac & cheese.

  • Breakfast Bombs: Pair with scrambled eggs and hash browns for a savory brunch option.

Final Thoughts

BBQ Bacon Cheddar Bombs are the culinary version of fireworks—exploding with savory, smoky, cheesy goodness in every bite. Their compact, handheld size makes them perfect for any occasion, and their rich flavor satisfies even the hungriest crowd. Whether baked or grilled, glazed or dipped, served solo or slider-style—these meat bombs are a guaranteed hit.

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