BBQ Bacon Cheddar Bites (Print-Friendly Version)
# What You'll Need:
→ Meatball Mix
01 -
1 lb ground beef (80/20 ratio)
02 -
1/2 cup tangy barbecue sauce
03 -
1/2 cup sharp cheddar, shredded
04 -
1 tsp garlic powder
05 -
1 tsp onion powder
06 -
1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper
07 -
1/2 tsp kosher salt
→ Bacon Wraps
08 -
12 thick-cut bacon strips
09 -
12 toothpicks (soak in water if grilling)
→ Optional Extras
10 -
More barbecue sauce for dipping
11 -
Chopped green onions
12 -
Pickled jalapeños for a kick
# Step-by-Step Directions:
01 -
Get your oven ready at 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with foil or parchment paper. Place a wire rack on top for better air flow. If you’re using a grill, heat it to 375°F and lightly oil the grates so nothing sticks.
02 -
In a big bowl, mix ground beef, shredded cheddar, barbecue sauce, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Stir gently so it stays juicy and soft.
03 -
Split the mix into 12 equal parts. Roll each one into a ball about 1.5 inches wide. Wet your hands with cool water if it’s sticking to you.
04 -
Take each ball and wrap it with a bacon strip, overlapping just enough to cover. Stick a toothpick through to hold everything together.
05 -
If grilling, put the bacon-wrapped meatballs on the grill and close the lid. Cook for 15 to 20 minutes, turning now and then until they’re golden all over. Make sure they hit 160°F inside. Move them away from flames if fat drips flare up. If baking, place meatballs on that wire rack and bake for 20 to 25 minutes. Flip them halfway through. Check that they reach 160°F inside.
06 -
Take the cooked meatballs off the heat and put them on paper towels to soak up extra grease. Let them rest for 5 minutes. Take out the toothpicks before serving. If you want, sprinkle with chopped green onions and serve with extra barbecue sauce on the side.
# Helpful Notes:
01 -
To keep flare-ups in check while grilling, move meatballs to cooler spots when bacon fat drips. You can make these ahead and refrigerate before cooking. For a deeper flavor, swap the sharp cheddar with smoked cheddar or add some liquid smoke to your barbecue sauce.