If you’re looking for a bold and flavorful dish, Smoky BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatballs are the perfect choice. These bite-sized delights bring together the best elements of a classic cheeseburger—juicy beef, crispy bacon, melty cheddar cheese, and a smoky-sweet BBQ glaze. Whether you’re planning a casual dinner, a game-day snack, or a crowd-pleasing appetizer, these meatballs are sure to be a hit.
Each meatball is packed with rich flavors, blending the savory goodness of ground beef and bacon with a perfect mix of seasonings. Once baked to golden perfection, they’re coated in a honey BBQ glaze that adds just the right balance of sweetness and smokiness.
Why You’ll Love These BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatballs
These meatballs take everything you love about a cheeseburger and transform it into a fun, bite-sized treat. The combination of juicy beef, crispy bacon, and gooey cheddar creates an irresistible flavor, while the BBQ glaze adds a smoky, slightly sweet finish.
Perfect for any occasion, they make an excellent dinner option, a delicious party appetizer, or a satisfying snack for game nights. Serve them with extra BBQ sauce for dipping, and watch them disappear in no time!
Ingredients
To make these delicious meatballs, you’ll need:
For the Meatballs:
- 1 lb ground beef
- ½ lb bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ¼ cup breadcrumbs
- ¼ cup milk
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
For the BBQ Glaze:
- ½ cup BBQ sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey
How to Make Smoky BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatballs
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
Step 2: Prepare the Meatball Mixture
In a large bowl, combine ground beef, crumbled bacon, shredded cheddar cheese, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix gently until well combined, being careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatballs dense.
Step 3: Shape the Meatballs
Roll the mixture into 1 to 1 ½-inch meatballs and place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them slightly apart to ensure even cooking.
Step 4: Bake the Meatballs
Bake in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes, or until the meatballs are fully cooked and golden brown. The internal temperature should reach 160°F (71°C).
Step 5: Make the BBQ Glaze
While the meatballs are baking, mix BBQ sauce and honey in a small bowl until well combined. This glaze adds a rich, smoky sweetness that enhances the flavor of the meatballs.
Step 6: Coat the Meatballs
Once baked, remove the meatballs from the oven and brush each one generously with the BBQ honey glaze. Ensure they are evenly coated for maximum flavor.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Serve the meatballs hot with extra BBQ sauce on the side for dipping. They make an excellent appetizer, party snack, or even a fun main dish when paired with sides like coleslaw or roasted potatoes.
Tips for the Best BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatballs
- Crispy Bacon: Cook the bacon until crispy before crumbling it into the mixture. This helps maintain its crunch and adds texture to the meatballs.
- Cheese Variations: While cheddar is a classic choice, try Monterey Jack, Pepper Jack, or Swiss cheese for a different twist.
- BBQ Sauce Choices: Use your favorite BBQ sauce to customize the flavor—whether smoky, spicy, or sweet. A honey mustard BBQ sauce can also add an interesting variation.
- Make-Ahead Option: You can prepare the meatballs ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to two days. Simply reheat them in the oven or microwave before serving.
Why You Should Try These Meatballs
If you love the flavors of a classic cheeseburger with a smoky BBQ twist, these meatballs are a must-try. They’re packed with juicy, cheesy, and smoky goodness, making them perfect for any occasion. Plus, they’re easy to make and require minimal prep time, making them a great choice for busy days or last-minute gatherings.
Conclusion
Smoky BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatballs are a delicious fusion of classic cheeseburger flavors and rich BBQ goodness. Juicy, cheesy, smoky, and slightly sweet, they’re an irresistible treat for dinner, parties, or casual snacking. Serve them with extra BBQ sauce for dipping, and get ready to impress your guests with this flavorful dish!