Cheddar-Stuffed BBQ Bacon Bombs are pure flavor explosions — melty cheddar inside juicy meatballs, wrapped in crispy bacon, and brushed with sweet BBQ sauce. Here’s your step-by-step recipe to make them mouthwatering and unforgettable.
Servings: 12 bombs
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 25–30 minutes
Total Time: ~50 minute
Ingredients:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef (80/20 is great)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- 2 tbsp milk
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 4 oz cheddar cheese (cut into 12 small cubes)
- 12 slices of bacon
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite)
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil and place a wire rack on top if you want crispier bacon.
2. Mix the Meatball Base
In a bowl, combine:
- Ground beef
- Breadcrumbs
- Egg
- Milk
- Garlic powder
- Onion powder
- Paprika
- Salt and pepper
Mix just until combined. Don’t overwork it — that can make the meat tough.
3. Form & Stuff the Bomb
- Divide the meat mixture into 12 equal portions.
- Flatten each portion in your hand like a small patty.
- Place a cheddar cube in the center of each.
- Fold the meat around the cheese and roll into a ball, sealing well.
4. Wrap with Bacon
- Take one slice of bacon and wrap it around each meatball. You can secure it with a toothpick or wrap tightly so it stays in place.
- Optional: For extra coverage or larger bombs, use two slices criss-crossed.
5. Bak
Place bacon bombs on the wire rack or lined baking sheet.
Bake for 20 minutes, then remove from oven.
6. Brush with BBQ Sauce
- Generously brush each bacon bomb with BBQ sauce.
- Return to oven for another 5–10 minutes, or until bacon is crisp and caramelized and internal temp reaches 160°F (71°C).
7. Cool & Serve
- Let rest 5 minutes.
- Serve with extra BBQ sauce for dipping.
Tips & Variations:
- Use pepper jack or smoked gouda instead of cheddar for a twist.
- Add a little chopped jalapeño inside with the cheese for a spicy version.
- Make smaller ones for party appetizers — just cut cheese smaller and use half bacon slices.
Let me know if you want an air fryer version too — they crisp up like a dream!
