Description
These Sizzling Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatballs combine the smoky flavor of bacon with the sweetness of bourbon BBQ sauce, all wrapped in juicy ground beef and topped with melted cheddar cheese. Baked to perfection, they make a perfect appetizer or hearty meal that will wow your guests.
Ingredients
Scale
Meatball Mixture
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 lb bacon, chopped
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup bourbon BBQ sauce
- 1 egg
- Salt and pepper to taste
Topping
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it reaches the right temperature for baking the meatballs evenly.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix ground beef, chopped bacon, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, onion, garlic, bourbon BBQ sauce, egg, salt, and pepper until well combined, ensuring all flavors are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
- Form Meatballs: Shape the mixture into evenly sized meatballs, making sure they are compact to hold their shape while cooking.
- Arrange Meatballs: Place the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper to prevent sticking and aid cleanup.
- Bake Meatballs: Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they are fully cooked through and reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
- Add Cheese Topping: In the last 5 minutes of baking, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top of each meatball and return to the oven until the cheese has melted and is bubbly.
Notes
- Make sure not to overmix the meatball mixture to keep the texture tender.
- You can substitute bourbon BBQ sauce with your favorite BBQ sauce if preferred.
- To check doneness accurately, use a meat thermometer to ensure a safe internal temperature.
- Serve hot with extra bourbon BBQ sauce for dipping if desired.
