Savor the Flavor with These Bacon Cheeseburger Meatballs!

Prepare to embark on a flavor explosion as we introduce the irresistible Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball! This culinary masterpiece combines the classic elements of a juicy bacon cheeseburger and packs them into a bite-sized, cheesy delight. Get ready to dive into a world of savory goodness that will leave your taste buds craving more.

Table of Contents

Ingredients That Make the Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Shine

The key to crafting the perfect Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball lies in the carefully selected ingredients. Let’s take a closer look at what goes into these delectable morsels:

For the Meatballs:

  • 1.5 lbs ground beef (80/20 blend recommended for flavor)
  • ½ lb ground bacon (cooked and crumbled, about 8 slices)
  • 1 cup panko bread crumbs
  • ½ cup milk
  • 1 large egg, lightly beaten
  • ¼ cup yellow onion, finely diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • ½ tsp garlic powder
  • ¼ tsp onion powder
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

For the Cheese Filling:

  • 8 oz sharp cheddar cheese, cut into ½-inch cubes

For the Burger Sauce:

  • ½ cup mayonnaise
  • 2 tbsp ketchup
  • 1 tbsp yellow mustard
  • 1 tbsp sweet pickle relish
  • 1 tsp white vinegar
  • ½ tsp garlic powder
  • ¼ tsp paprika
  • Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional)

For Serving (Optional):

  • Sesame seed buns, toasted
  • Lettuce leaves
  • Tomato slices
  • Red onion slices
  • Pickle chips

Crafting the Bacon Cheeseburger Meatballs: Step-by-Step

Now that we’ve gathered all the necessary ingredients, let’s dive into the step-by-step process of creating these mouthwatering Bacon Cheeseburger Meatballs:

Prepare the Bacon

Start by cooking the bacon until crispy, then let it cool and crumble it into small pieces. Set the crumbled bacon aside, as it will be an essential component in the meatball mixture.

Combine the Meatball Ingredients

In a large bowl, gently mix together the ground beef, crumbled bacon, panko breadcrumbs, and milk. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in tough meatballs.

Prepare the Wet Mixture

In a separate small bowl, whisk together the egg, diced onion, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder.

Mix Everything Together

Pour the wet mixture into the meat mixture, season with salt and black pepper, and gently combine until just mixed. Avoid overworking the mixture, as this can lead to dense, rubbery meatballs.

Stuff with Cheese

Take a small handful (2–3 tablespoons) of the meat mixture, flatten it in your hand, place a cube of cheddar cheese in the center, then bring the edges up and around the cheese, sealing it tightly. Roll the meatball into a smooth shape.

Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball 30 Minutes Ultimate Delicious

Cooking Methods for Bacon Cheeseburger Meatballs

You can choose from two versatile cooking methods for your Bacon Cheeseburger Meatballs:

Baking Method

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Arrange the meatballs with space between them and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). Let the meatballs rest for a few minutes before serving.

Pan-Frying Method

Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs, working in batches if necessary. Brown the meatballs on all sides, about 8-10 minutes, then reduce the heat, cover the pan, and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). Drain any excess grease before serving.

Creating the Perfect Bacon Cheeseburger Sauce

No Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball is complete without the irresistible burger sauce. In a bowl, combine the mayonnaise, ketchup, yellow mustard, sweet pickle relish, white vinegar, garlic powder, and paprika. Whisk the ingredients until smooth, adjust the seasoning to your taste, and chill the sauce until ready to serve.

Serving and Enjoying Bacon Cheeseburger Meatballs

There are numerous ways to enjoy these Bacon Cheeseburger Meatballs. Serve them in toasted sesame seed buns with lettuce, tomato, red onion, pickles, and the delectable burger sauce. Alternatively, you can present them as appetizers with the sauce for dipping, or incorporate them into a salad or over mashed potatoes for a heartier meal.

Notes and Variations

Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese, such as mozzarella or pepper jack, to add unique flavors to your Bacon Cheeseburger Meatballs. You can also incorporate a touch of heat by adding red pepper flakes. For a moisture boost, try finely grating vegetables like zucchini or carrot into the mixture. If you’re looking for a gluten-free version, use gluten-free breadcrumbs instead. These meatballs can be prepared in advance or frozen after cooking, making them a convenient option for future meals (store for up to 2 months).

FAQs About Bacon Cheeseburger Meatballs

Can I use a different type of cheese for the filling in bacon cheeseburger meatballs?

Absolutely! While sharp cheddar is a classic choice for the cheesy filling, you can experiment with various types of cheese based on your taste preferences. Options like mozzarella, pepper jack, or gouda can add unique flavors and textures to your meatballs. Just keep in mind that some cheeses melt differently; for instance, mozzarella will create a gooey texture, while pepper jack can add a spicy kick.

How can I adjust the recipe for a lower-fat version of bacon cheeseburger meatballs?

To create a lower-fat version of bacon cheeseburger meatballs, consider using lean ground beef (like 93% lean) or substituting part of the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken. You can also reduce the amount of bacon by using turkey bacon or omitting it altogether. Additionally, using low-fat cheese and whole grain or gluten-free breadcrumbs can help lower the overall fat content while still maintaining flavor.

What are some creative ways to use leftover bacon cheeseburger meatballs?

Leftover bacon cheeseburger meatballs can be incredibly versatile! You can turn them into meatball subs by placing them in a toasted hoagie bun with marinara sauce and cheese. They also make a great topping for pizza; just slice them up and scatter over your pizza before baking. Another option is to add them to a pasta dish or incorporate them into a salad for an extra protein boost. Finally, they can be reheated as a quick snack or appetizer with your favorite dipping sauce.

Can I freeze bacon cheeseburger meatballs, and if so, how should I do it?

Yes, bacon cheeseburger meatballs can be frozen for future meals! To freeze, allow the cooked meatballs to cool completely, then arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for about an hour to prevent sticking. Once frozen, transfer the meatballs to a freezer-safe bag or container, separating layers with parchment paper if needed. They can be stored in the freezer for up to two months. When you’re ready to use them, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven or microwave.

Conclusion

The Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball is a culinary masterpiece that combines the flavors of a classic bacon cheeseburger into a bite-sized, cheesy delight. With its mouthwatering ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and versatile cooking methods, you can now create these irresistible meatballs at home and enjoy them in a variety of ways. Get ready to savor the delicious fusion of bacon, beef, and cheese in every flavorful bite!

Looking for more visual inspiration? Follow me on Pinterest, where I share new recipes, dinner tips, and behind-the-scenes kitchen moments every week. Buon appetito!

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Indulge in Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball, a delicious recipe perfect for gatherings. Try it today for an amazing meal!

Savor the Flavor with These Bacon Cheeseburger Meatballs!


  • Author: Sofia Rojas
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Description

Indulge in the Delicious Fusion of Bacon Cheeseburger Meatballs


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 1/2 pound ground beef
  • 1/2 pound ground bacon
  • 1 cup panko bread crumbs
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 1 large egg
  • 1/4 cup yellow onion
  • 2 cloves garlic
  • 2 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 8 ounce sharp cheddar cheese

Instructions

1. Start by cooking the bacon until crispy, then let it cool and crumble it into small pieces. Set aside.

2. In a large bowl, gently mix together the ground beef, crumbled bacon, panko breadcrumbs, and milk.

3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg, diced onion, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder.

4. Pour the wet mixture into the meat mixture, season with salt and black pepper, and gently combine until just mixed.

5. Take a small handful (2–3 tablespoon) of the meat mixture, flatten it in your hand, place a cube of cheddar cheese in the center, then bring the edges up and around the cheese, sealing it tightly. Roll into a smooth shape.

6. Preheat your oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Arrange the meatballs with space between them and bake for 20-25 minutes until internal temperature reaches 160°F.

7. Alternatively, heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a skillet over medium heat. Brown the meatballs on all sides for about 8-10 minutes, then reduce heat, cover, and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes until internal temperature reaches 160°F.

Notes

Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese or add vegetables for moisture. These meatballs can be prepared in advance or frozen for future meals.

  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking or Pan-Frying
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4 meatballs
  • Calories: 450
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 800mg
  • Fat: 30g
  • Saturated Fat: 12g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 15g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 20g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 25g
  • Cholesterol: 100mg