Cheddar Bbq Bacon Bombs: Ultimate Appetizer Delight

Ever since I can remember, the kitchen has been my haven—a place where I let my creativity flow and my worries disappear. There’s something magical about transforming simple ingredients into a dish that brings smiles and satisfaction. This is especially true with my latest obsession: Cheddar BBQ Bacon Bombs. These little morsels have a way of bringing people together, whether it’s a casual family dinner or a game day feast.

The first time I made Cheddar BBQ Bacon Bombs, I was hooked. The savory aroma of bacon sizzling complemented by the tangy sweetness of BBQ sauce filled the kitchen, creating an irresistible atmosphere. It’s not just about the taste—it’s the experience of crafting each bite-sized bomb, wrapping it in bacon, and watching it transform in the oven or on the grill.

These Cheddar BBQ Bacon Bombs have become a staple in my home, a recipe I turn to when I want to impress guests or simply indulge in something utterly delicious. With every batch, I find new ways to perfect them, ensuring they’re crispy on the outside and juicy within. The key lies in the balance of flavors and the joy of sharing them with loved ones.

Cheddar Bbq Bacon Bombs

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• Author: Chloe
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 4-6 servings
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian

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Description

Discover how to make irresistible Cheddar BBQ Bacon Bombs with our step-by-step guide. Perfect for any gathering, these savory bites are sure to impress your guests!

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Ingredients

• 1 pound (454 g) ground beef (80/20 recommended for juiciness)
• 1/2 cup (120 ml) BBQ sauce (your favorite variety)
• 1/2 cup (120 ml) sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1 teaspoon (5 ml) garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon (5 ml) onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon (3 ml) salt
• 1/4 teaspoon (1 ml) black pepper
• 12 slices thick-cut beef bacon
• 12 toothpicks (soaked in water if grilling)
• Additional BBQ sauce for dipping
• Sliced green onions for garnish
• Pickled jalapeño slices

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Instructions

1. If baking, set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and cover a baking tray with parchment or foil for easier cleaning. Place a wire rack on top if possible to allow the bacon to crisp evenly. For grilling, warm up the grill to medium heat (around 375°F) and lightly grease the grates to avoid sticking.
2. In a large bowl, blend together the ground beef, BBQ sauce, sharp cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Use your hands or a fork to gently mix until just combined, being cautious not to overmix to maintain tenderness. The blend should be well mixed but remain loose.
3. Separate the beef mixture into 12 equal pieces. A kitchen scale can be useful for accuracy, or split the mixture in half, then divide each half into 6 parts. Shape each piece into balls roughly 1½ inches across by rolling them between your palms. If the mixture sticks, wet your hands slightly with cold water.
4. Wrap a slice of bacon around each meatball, overlapping slightly to ensure full coverage. Use a toothpick to secure the bacon, inserting it through the bacon’s end into the meatball. Repeat with the remaining meatballs and bacon slices. The toothpick keeps the bacon in place and aids in turning and serving later.
5. Position the bacon-wrapped meatballs on the grill set to medium heat. Cover and let them cook for 15-20 minutes, turning occasionally with tongs for even cooking. The bacon bombs are ready when the bacon is crispy and caramelized, and the beef’s internal temperature is 160°F (71°C). If flare-ups from bacon fat occur, move them temporarily to a cooler grill area.
6. Arrange the bacon-wrapped balls on the baking tray or wire rack. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway to ensure even crisping of the bacon. They’re done when the bacon is golden and the internal beef temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
7. After cooking, place the bacon bombs on a plate lined with paper towels to soak up any extra grease. Allow them to rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This resting time helps the juices to redistribute, making them juicier when eaten.
8. Carefully take out the toothpicks from the bacon bombs before serving (or inform guests if you leave them in for easier handling). Serve warm on a platter, optionally topped with sliced green onions. Offer extra BBQ sauce on the side for dipping. These are a great appetizer for gatherings, game days, or as a substantial protein addition to any meal.

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Notes

• Use freshly shredded cheddar for optimal melting and flavor integrationnIncorporate BBQ sauce well into beef mixture for consistent flavor but avoid overmixingnSoak toothpicks in water to prevent burning on the grill

Mastering Cheddar BBQ Bacon Bombs

Fundamentals

Creating the perfect Cheddar BBQ Bacon Bombs starts with understanding the fundamentals. The combination of ground beef, BBQ sauce, and sharp cheddar cheese forms the core of these delectable treats. Choosing an 80/20 blend of beef ensures juiciness, while the cheddar adds a rich, tangy flavor that complements the sweet and smoky BBQ sauce.

Incorporating spices like garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper elevates the taste profile, adding depth and complexity. The real star, though, is the beef bacon that wraps around each meatball, imparting a crispy, caramelized finish that is simply irresistible.

Preparation/setup

Preparation is key to achieving perfect Cheddar BBQ Bacon Bombs. Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lining a baking tray with parchment or foil. If grilling, preheat the grill to medium heat and lightly grease the grates to prevent sticking. Soak the toothpicks in water if using the grill to avoid burning.

In a large bowl, gently blend the ground beef with BBQ sauce, shredded cheddar, garlic and onion powders, salt, and pepper. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to dense meatballs. Divide the mixture into 12 equal portions, shaping each into a ball about 1½ inches across.

Crafting the Perfect BBQ Bacon Bomb

Technique

Wrapping the meatballs in bacon is a technique that requires a bit of finesse. Take one slice of thick-cut beef bacon and wrap it around the meatball, ensuring it overlaps slightly for full coverage. Secure the bacon with a toothpick, inserting it through the end into the meatball. This not only keeps the bacon in place but also makes it easier to turn the meatballs during cooking.

Cooking Cheddar BBQ Bacon Bombs can be done in the oven or on the grill. Both methods have their merits, but grilling imparts a distinct smoky flavor that pairs beautifully with the BBQ sauce. On the grill, cook the bombs over medium heat for 15-20 minutes, turning occasionally. In the oven, bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Tips/tricks

For the crispiest bacon, ensure that the bacon overlaps slightly when wrapping the meatballs. This overlap not only secures the bacon but also helps it render properly, achieving that coveted crispy texture. If grilling, manage flare-ups by moving the bombs to a cooler area of the grill.

Using a wire rack in the oven allows air to circulate around the meatballs, promoting even cooking and crisping. Don’t forget to let the bombs rest for about 5 minutes after cooking. This step redistributes the juices, ensuring each bite is as juicy as it is flavorful.

Enhancing Your BBQ Bacon Bombs Experience

Perfecting results

Perfection lies in the details when it comes to Cheddar BBQ Bacon Bombs. The right balance of seasoning, careful wrapping of the bacon, and precise cooking time all contribute to a memorable dish. Experimenting with different BBQ sauce varieties can also introduce new flavor dimensions, from smoky to spicy to sweet.

For those who enjoy a bit of heat, topping the finished bombs with pickled jalapeño slices adds a fiery kick that contrasts beautifully with the savory richness of the meatballs. Garnishing with sliced green onions not only adds a pop of color but also a fresh, mild onion flavor that complements the dish.

Troubleshooting/variations

If you encounter any issues, such as bacon not crisping evenly, adjusting the cooking time or temperature might help. In the oven, using a convection setting can enhance airflow, promoting crispness. On the grill, ensure the grate is hot enough before placing the meatballs to achieve immediate sizzle and sear.

For a fun twist on the classic recipe, try serving these bombs alongside Crispy Cheese and Bacon Potatoes, which complement the savory flavors perfectly. You can also explore other creative appetizers like Ranch Bacon Cheddar Tortilla Bites for a delightful party spread.

Serving and Storing Cheddar BBQ Bacon Bombs

Serving/presentation

Presentation is key when serving Cheddar BBQ Bacon Bombs. Arrange them on a platter with a small bowl of extra BBQ sauce for dipping. Sprinkle sliced green onions over the top for a touch of freshness and color. These bombs make a fantastic appetizer, easily picked up and enjoyed by guests.

If you’re looking to create a memorable meal, pair these bombs with Bacon Cheeseburger Stuffed Tater Tot Cones. Their playful presentation and rich flavors harmonize perfectly with the savory bombs, making for a delightful culinary experience.

Pairings/storage

While Cheddar BBQ Bacon Bombs are best enjoyed fresh, you can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat them in the oven or on the grill to revive their crispy exterior and juicy interior. For a complete meal, serve with Mushroom BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Stuffed Peppers for a hearty and satisfying dinner.

If you’re planning a party, prepare the meatballs and wrap them in bacon in advance, storing them in the fridge until you’re ready to cook. This makes it easy to entertain without the stress of last-minute preparations.

Conclusion

Cheddar BBQ Bacon Bombs offer a delightful blend of flavors and textures that are sure to impress. By mastering the fundamentals, employing effective techniques, and experimenting with variations, you can create a dish that is both delicious and visually appealing. Their versatility makes them a fantastic addition to any gathering, whether as an appetizer or part of a larger meal.

The strengths of Cheddar BBQ Bacon Bombs lie in their simplicity and the joy they bring to any occasion. With a few basic ingredients and a little creativity, you can craft a culinary masterpiece that will have everyone reaching for seconds. Whether you’re entertaining or simply indulging yourself, these bombs are sure to be a hit.

FAQs – Cheddar Bbq Bacon Bombs