Title: Bacon-Wrapped Cheese-Stuffed Meatballs

Ingredients:

For the Meatballs:

1 lb ground beef (or pork/turkey)

1/2 cup breadcrumbs

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 egg

2 cloves garlic, minced

1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped

1 tsp salt

1/2 tsp black pepper

1/2 tsp smoked paprika

For Stuffing and Wrapping:

8–10 small mozzarella cubes (one for each meatball)

8–10 slices of bacon (one per meatball)

Toothpicks (optional, for securing bacon)

For the Dipping Sauce:

1/2 cup mayonnaise

1/4 cup ketchup

1 tbsp Dijon mustard

1 tsp smoked paprika (optional)

Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

Prepare the Meatball Mixture:

 

In a large mixing bowl, combine ground meat, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, egg, garlic, parsley, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika.

Mix until fully combined but avoid overmixing.

Stuff the Meatballs:

 

Take about 2 tablespoons of the meat mixture and flatten it in your hand.

Place a cube of mozzarella in the center and fold the meat around it, rolling into a ball.

Repeat with the remaining meat mixture and cheese.

Wrap with Bacon:

 

Wrap each meatball with a slice of bacon, ensuring the ends overlap. Use a toothpick to secure if necessary.

Cook the Meatballs:

 

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

Place the bacon-wrapped meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a wire rack.

Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the meatballs are fully cooked (internal temperature of 160°F/70°C).

Make the Dipping Sauce:

 

In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, ketchup, Dijon mustard, and smoked paprika. Adjust salt and pepper to taste.

Serve:

 

Arrange the bacon-wrapped meatballs on a serving platter.

Drizzle with the dipping sauce or serve it on the side for dipping.

Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired.

These cheesy, savory bacon-wrapped meatballs are perfect as an appetizer or a main dish. The crispy bacon and melty mozzarella make them an irresistible crowd-pleaser!