BBQ Bacon Cheddar Bombs (Print Version)
# Ingredients:
→ For the Meatballs
01 -
1 pound ground beef (80/20 blend works best)
02 -
1/2 cup BBQ sauce of your choice
03 -
1/2 cup freshly grated sharp cheddar cheese
04 -
1 teaspoon garlic powder
05 -
1 teaspoon onion powder
06 -
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
07 -
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
→ For Assembly
08 -
12 strips thick-cut bacon
09 -
12 wooden toothpicks (soaked in water if grilling)
→ Optional Garnishes
10 -
Extra BBQ sauce for serving
11 -
Fresh green onions, chopped
12 -
Pickled jalapeño slices for heat
# Instructions:
01 -
Preheat your oven to 375°F and line a baking sheet with foil or parchment paper. Place a wire rack on top to help the bacon get crispy all around. If grilling, heat your grill to 375°F and lightly oil the grates.
02 -
In a large mixing bowl, gently combine the ground beef, cheddar cheese, BBQ sauce, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Mix just until everything comes together. Avoid overmixing to prevent tough meatballs.
03 -
Divide the mixture into 12 equal portions by splitting it in half, then each half into 6 pieces. Roll each portion into a ball about 1½ inches across. Dampen your hands with cold water if the mixture sticks.
04 -
Take each meatball and wrap it completely with a strip of bacon, overlapping the ends slightly. Secure with a toothpick pushed all the way through. Repeat until all meatballs are bacon-wrapped.
05 -
Place the wrapped meatballs on the preheated grill and close the lid. Cook for 15-20 minutes, turning occasionally with tongs for even browning. Ensure the bacon is crispy and the internal temperature reaches 160°F. Move to a cooler part of the grill if flare-ups occur.
06 -
Place the bacon-wrapped meatballs on the prepared baking sheet with the wire rack. Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping them halfway through for even crispiness. Check that the internal temperature reaches 160°F.
07 -
Transfer the cooked meatballs to a paper towel-lined plate and allow them to rest for 5 minutes to retain juices. Remove toothpicks before serving. Garnish with chopped green onions and serve with extra BBQ sauce on the side.
# Notes:
01 -
Soak toothpicks in water beforehand if grilling to prevent burning.