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Cheddar-Stuffed BBQ Bacon Bombs

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Prep Time 16 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 42 minutes
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • Meatball Mixture
  • 1 lb ground beef 80/20 blend recommended for best texture
  • ½ cup BBQ sauce your favorite brand
  • ½ cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • ¼ tsp freshly cracked black pepper
  • ½ tsp kosher salt
  • Bacon Wrapping
  • 12 slices thick-cut bacon
  • 12 toothpicks soak in water if grilling
  • Optional Garnishes
  • Extra BBQ sauce for dipping
  • Chopped green onions for garnish
  • Pickled jalapeños for a spicy kick

Method
 

  1. Preheat & Prep
  2. Oven Method: Preheat to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with foil or parchment paper and place a wire rack on top for even crisping.
  3. Grill Method: Heat grill to 375°F (190°C) and lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking.
  4. Mix the Meatballs
  5. In a large bowl, gently combine ground beef, cheddar, BBQ sauce, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Avoid overmixing to keep the meatballs tender.
  6. Shape the Meatballs
  7. Divide the mixture into 12 equal portions (split in half, then each half into 6). Roll into 1½-inch balls. If sticky, wet hands with cold water for easier handling.
  8. Wrap with Bacon
  9. Wrap each meatball with a bacon slice, slightly overlapping. Secure with a toothpick. Repeat for all meatballs.
  10. Cook
  11. Grill: Place on the grill, close the lid, and cook for 15–20 minutes, turning occasionally until bacon is crispy and internal temp reaches 160°F. Move to a cooler spot if flare-ups occur.
  12. Bake: Arrange on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway, until bacon is crisp and meatballs reach 160°F internally.
  13. Rest & Serve
  14. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate and let rest for 5 minutes. Remove toothpicks before serving.
  15. Garnish with green onions and serve with extra BBQ sauce for dipping.
  16. Tips & Variations
  17. Flavor Boost: Swap cheddar for smoked cheese or add a dash of liquid smoke to the BBQ sauce.
  18. Make Ahead: Prep meatballs in advance and refrigerate until ready to cook.
  19. Spice It Up: Add cayenne or spicy BBQ sauce. For sweetness, mix in honey or brown sugar.
  20. These Bacon-Wrapped BBQ Meatballs are the ultimate crowd-pleaser—juicy, smoky, and packed with flavor!