BBQ Bacon Bombs Recipe – A Cheesy, Savory Delight
Looking for a crowd-pleasing appetizer or game-day snack? This BBQ Bacon Bombs recipe features juicy ground beef stuffed with cheddar cheese, wrapped in crispy bacon, serving 9 pieces. With a smoky BBQ glaze and a side of Thousand Island dressing for dipping, they’re irresistible. Follow this guide to make your own BBQ Bacon Bombs and elevate your next gathering!
Why You’ll Love These BBQ Bacon Bombs
This recipe stands out for its bold flavors and simplicity. First, the cheddar stuffing adds a gooey, cheesy center. Next, the bacon wrap brings a crispy, smoky crunch. Finally, the BBQ glaze gives these BBQ Bacon Bombs a sweet and tangy finish that pairs perfectly with Thousand Island dressing.
Ingredients for Your BBQ Bacon Bombs
Here’s what you’ll need to create these savory bombs:
Meat Mixture
- 1 pound lean ground beef : The flavorful base for the bombs.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced : Adds a savory kick.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder : Enhances the beef’s flavor.
- 1 teaspoon salt : Balances the taste.
- 1/2 teaspoon cracked pepper : Adds a mild spice.
Filling and Wrapping
- 4 ounces cheddar cheese : Cut into 1-inch cubes for stuffing.
- 9 slices bacon : Wraps the bombs for a crispy finish.
BBQ Glaze and Dipping
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce : For brushing during baking.
- Thousand Island dressing : For dipping, as suggested.
How to Make Your BBQ Bacon Bombs
Follow these steps to create your BBQ Bacon Bombs:
1. Prepare the Beef Mixture
Combine the ground beef, minced garlic, onion powder, salt, and cracked pepper in a large bowl. Mix thoroughly with your hands until the seasonings are evenly distributed.
2. Stuff with Cheddar
Divide the beef mixture into 9 equal portions, about 1.5 ounces each. Flatten each portion into a small patty. Place a cube of cheddar cheese in the center of each patty, then fold the beef around it, sealing the cheese inside to form a ball.
3. Wrap with Bacon
Wrap each beef ball with a slice of bacon, ensuring it overlaps slightly to cover the entire surface. Secure with a toothpick if needed. This step gives your BBQ Bacon Bombs their signature crispy exterior. For more bacon tips, see our Guide to Bacon Dishes.
4. Bake and Glaze
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the bacon-wrapped bombs on a wire rack set over a baking sheet to catch drippings. Brush each bomb with BBQ sauce. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the beef is cooked through, brushing with more BBQ sauce halfway through.
5. Serve with Dipping Sauce
Let the cool for 5 minutes before serving. Serve with Thousand Island dressing on the side for dipping, adding a creamy, tangy contrast to the smoky flavors.
Tips for Perfect BBQ Bacon Bombs
- Use lean beef : This prevents excess grease during baking.
- Seal tightly : Ensure the cheese is fully enclosed to avoid leaks.
- Crisp the bacon : Bake until the bacon is golden for the best texture.
Variations for Your BBQ Bacon Bombs
Want to customize your snack? Try these ideas:
- Spicy Kick : Add ½ teaspoon of cayenne to the beef mixture.
- Cheese Swap : Use mozzarella or pepper jack instead of cheddar.
- Different Sauce : Swap BBQ sauce for a honey glaze. Explore more appetizers with our Stuffed Meatball Recipe.
Storage and Serving
Store leftover in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes to restore the bacon’s crispiness. Serve warm with extra Thousand Island dressing for dipping.
Conclusion: A Savory Snack to Enjoy
This recipe is a simple, flavorful way to enjoy a cheesy, bacon-wrapped treat. Perfect for parties or casual snacking, they’re sure to be a hit. Make them today and share your feedback in the comments! For more savory recipes, visit our Appetizer Collection on Vicky’s Recipes.