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Close-up of freshly baked Cheddar Stuffed BBQ Bacon Bombs on a baking sheet, featuring crispy bacon, a glossy caramelized BBQ sauce glaze, and a garnish of fresh chopped parsley.

Cheddar Stuffed BBQ Bacon Bombs

Get ready to experience pure game-day heaven with these Cheddar Stuffed BBQ Bacon Bombs! Perfectly seasoned beef meatballs hide a gooey surprise center of sharp melted cheddar, all wrapped up in crispy bacon strips and glazed with tangy BBQ sauce. They are the ultimate easy appetizer for tailgating or parties.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Course Appetizer, Snack
Cuisine American, BBQ
Servings 12 Bombs
Calories 285 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the Meat Mixture:

  • 1 ½ pounds ground beef 80/20 blend recommended
  • 1 large egg
  • ½ cup plain or seasoned breadcrumbs
  • 2 tablespoons milk
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper

For the Stuffing:

  • 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese cut into 12 cubes (¾ to 1-inch thick)

For Wrapping & Glazing:

  • 12 slices thin-cut bacon
  • ½ cup BBQ sauce plus extra for serving

Instructions
 

  • Prep and Preheat: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut the cheddar cheese into 12 equal cubes and place them in the fridge to keep them cold (this helps prevent leaks!). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil.
  • Make the Meat Mixture: In a large bowl, mix the ground beef, egg, breadcrumbs, milk, garlic, and spices until just combined. Don't overmix, or the bombs will be tough! Divide the mixture into 12 equal portions.
  • Stuff the Bombs: Flatten a portion of meat, place a cold cheese cube in the center, and wrap the meat around it. Seal it tightly to ensure no cheese is visible.
  • Wrap the Bacon: Wrap one slice of bacon around each meatball, tucking the ends underneath. Secure with a toothpick if necessary.
  • Bake: Arrange on the baking sheet and bake for 35-40 minutes.
  • Glaze: During the last 5 minutes of cooking, brush generously with BBQ sauce.
  • Serve: Let them rest for 5 minutes before serving to let the cheese set slightly.

Notes

  • Crispy Bacon Tip: For crispier bacon, bake it on a wire rack placed over the baking sheet to allow air to circulate underneath.
  • Make Ahead: You can assemble these fully, cover them, and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking.
  • Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer to crisp them back up.

Nutrition

Serving: 1bacon bombCalories: 285kcalCarbohydrates: 6gProtein: 18gFat: 21gSaturated Fat: 9gCholesterol: 65mgSodium: 480mgSugar: 3g
Keyword bacon wrapped meatballs, BBQ bacon appetizers, Cheddar Stuffed BBQ Bacon Bombs, game day food, party appetizers, stuffed meatballs
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