BBQ Bacon Cheddar Bombs (Print Version)
# Ingredients:
→ Meatball Ingredients
01 -
1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend for best texture)
02 -
½ cup BBQ sauce
03 -
½ cup grated sharp cheddar cheese
04 -
1 tsp garlic powder
05 -
1 tsp onion powder
06 -
¼ tsp freshly cracked black pepper
07 -
½ tsp kosher salt
→ Bacon Wrapping
08 -
12 strips thick-cut bacon
09 -
12 toothpicks (soaked in water if grilling)
→ Optional Toppings
10 -
BBQ sauce for dipping (optional)
11 -
Diced green onion (optional)
12 -
Pickled jalapeños for extra flavor (optional)
# Instructions:
01 -
Set oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking tray with foil or parchment. Place a wire rack on top for even crisping. If grilling, preheat grill to 375°F and lightly oil grates to prevent sticking.
02 -
In a mixing bowl, gently combine ground beef, cheddar, BBQ sauce, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder to avoid overmixing.
03 -
Divide the mixture into 12 even parts, shaping each into a 1½-inch ball. Wet hands with cool water if mixture sticks.
04 -
Wrap a slice of bacon around each meatball, overlapping slightly. Secure with a toothpick. Repeat with remaining meatballs.
05 -
Place on grill and close lid. Cook for 15–20 minutes, rotating for even cooking. Ensure bacon is golden and meatball temperature reads 160°F. Move to cooler grill sections if flare-ups occur.
06 -
Place bacon-wrapped meatballs on the wire rack and bake for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through. Ensure internal temperature measures 160°F.
07 -
Let cooked meatballs rest on a paper towel-lined plate for 5 minutes. Remove toothpicks before serving. Garnish with green onions and serve with BBQ sauce if desired.
# Notes:
01 -
For added flavor, substitute regular cheddar with smoked cheddar or add liquid smoke to the BBQ sauce.
02 -
Adjust spice level by adding cayenne pepper or using a spicy BBQ sauce.
03 -
Sweeten by including honey or brown sugar in the meat mixture.