Bacon Cheese Bombs (Print-Friendly Version)

# What You'll Need:

→ What You Need for the Meatballs

01 - 1 tsp onion powder
02 - ½ tsp kosher salt
03 - 1 tsp garlic powder
04 - ¼ tsp freshly cracked black pepper
05 - ½ cup BBQ sauce
06 - ½ cup sharp cheddar cheese, grated
07 - 1 lb ground beef (80/20 mix gives great results)

→ How to Wrap with Bacon

08 - 12 water-soaked toothpicks if grilling (optional)
09 - 12 thick bacon slices

→ Add-Ons if You Like

10 - Chopped green onion for garnish (optional)
11 - BBQ sauce to dip (optional)
12 - For extra kick, try some pickled jalapeños (optional)

# Step-by-Step Directions:

01 - Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C), then cover a baking sheet with parchment or foil. Add a wire rack for even crisping. If you're grilling, set it to 375°F and oil the grates lightly to avoid sticking.
02 - Add the ground beef, cheddar, BBQ sauce, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder into a bowl. Blend gently—overworking changes the texture.
03 - Grab the mixture and divide it into 12 equal parts. Roll each into approximately 1½-inch balls. Use dampened hands if the mix is sticky.
04 - Wrap each ball with one slice of bacon, letting it overlap a bit. Use toothpicks to keep it in place, and repeat for all 12.
05 - Arrange meatballs on a grill, close the lid, and cook for about 15–20 minutes. Rotate to cook evenly, ensuring the bacon crisps up nicely and the meatball reaches 160°F inside. Move them aside if fire flares.
06 - Line your bacon-covered meatballs on the rack and pop them in the oven. Cook for 20–25 minutes, flipping midway. Check for an internal temperature of 160°F.
07 - Once cooked, transfer the meatballs to a plate lined with paper towels and give them 5 minutes to rest. Pull out the toothpicks, top with green onions, and add BBQ sauce if you'd like.

# Helpful Notes:

01 - Want more layers of flavor? Swap regular cheddar for smoked or mix in a touch of liquid smoke.
02 - Like it hotter? Incorporate cayenne pepper or use a spicy BBQ sauce.
03 - Prefer some sweetness? Stir honey or brown sugar into the meat blend.

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