Cheddar-Stuffed BBQ Bacon Bombs – An Explosion of Flavor in Every Bite!
If you’re looking for the ultimate comfort food that’s meaty, cheesy, smoky, and downright addictive, these Cheddar-Stuffed BBQ Bacon Bombs are exactly what you need. Whether you’re cooking for a party, game day, or just want to impress with a mouthwatering dish—this recipe delivers bold flavors and a perfect texture combo in every single bite.
Why You’ll Love These BBQ Bacon Bombs
- Melted cheddar inside juicy beef meatballs
- Crispy bacon wrap for that crunchy, salty bite
- Sweet and smoky BBQ glaze that caramelizes in the oven
- Perfect as a party snack, main dish, or even a viral video recipe
Ingredients (Makes 12 Bacon Bombs)
For the Meatballs:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef (80/20 for the juiciest result)
- ½ cup BBQ sauce (your favorite kind)
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Filling:
- 12 cubes of sharp cheddar cheese
For Wrapping:
- 12 slices of bacon (thick-cut preferred)
For Brushing:
- ¼ cup BBQ sauce (for glazing during baking)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking tray with parchment paper or place a wire rack on a tray to allow bacon fat to drip off during baking.
2. Make the Meatball Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, egg, breadcrumbs, ½ cup BBQ sauce, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly but don’t overwork it—just enough to combine.
3. Shape and Stuff
Divide the mixture into 12 equal portions. Take one portion, flatten it in your palm, and place a cube of cheddar in the center. Wrap the meat around the cheese and form it into a tight ball.
4. Wrap in Bacon
Take one slice of bacon and wrap it around each meatball. You can use toothpicks to secure the bacon if needed.
5. Bake
Place the bacon-wrapped meatballs onto your baking tray. Bake for 20 minutes.
6. Glaze and Finish
After 20 minutes, remove the tray and brush each bomb with extra BBQ sauce. Return to the oven for another 10–15 minutes, or until the bacon is golden and crispy.
7. Let Rest and Serve
Let them rest for 5 minutes before serving. This helps the cheese settle slightly and avoids burns from molten cheese.
Pro Tips for Success
- Don’t overmix the beef, or your meatballs may become dense.
- Use cold cheese cubes to prevent early melting during baking.
- Try different cheeses like pepper jack or mozzarella for variety.
- Serve with extra BBQ sauce, pickles, or over mashed potatoes for a full meal.
Keto or Low-Carb Version
Swap breadcrumbs for almond flour or crushed pork rinds and use sugar-free BBQ sauce.
Perfect For:
- Party appetizers
- Family dinners
- Potlucks or game day
- A viral food reel!