If you are searching for a delicious crowd-pleaser that combines the smoky sweetness of bourbon barbecue with the irresistible flavors of bacon and cheeseburger, your search ends here. This Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatballs Recipe takes classic comfort food to a whole new level, offering juicy, cheesy meatballs glazed with rich barbecue sauce and studded with crispy bacon. They are perfect for game day, family dinners, or any time you want to impress with minimal fuss and maximum flavor.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients may be simple, but each one plays an essential role in creating the perfect balance of taste, texture, and color in this recipe. From the savory ground beef and smoky bacon to the sharp cheddar cheese and tangy bourbon barbecue sauce, every component contributes to that unforgettable flavor.
- 1 1/2 pounds ground beef 80/20: The ideal fat ratio for juicy, flavorful meatballs that stay tender.
- 1/2 cup cooked bacon, finely chopped: Adds a smoky crunch that elevates every bite.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Melts beautifully inside the meatballs for cheesy indulgence.
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs: Helps bind the meatballs while keeping them moist.
- 1 large egg: Acts as a natural binder, ensuring the meatballs hold their shape.
- 2 tablespoons milk: Adds moisture and enhances tenderness.
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: Provides a deep umami note and rich complexity.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Infuses a subtle but essential savory kick.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder: Brings a sweet earthiness to the flavor profile.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors perfectly without overpowering.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a gentle heat and complexity.
- 1 cup bourbon barbecue sauce, divided: The star of the show, coating each meatball with a sweet, smoky glaze.
How to Make Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatballs Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Meatball Mixture
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. In a large bowl, combine all the main ingredients—ground beef, chopped bacon, shredded cheddar, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix gently, just until combined. This is key: overmixing can make your meatballs tough, and you want them tender and juicy.
Step 2: Shape the Meatballs
Scoop out the mixture and roll it into evenly sized meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Uniform sizing ensures they cook evenly. Arrange them on your prepared baking sheet, giving each enough space to cook properly without steaming.
Step 3: Apply the First Layer of Sauce
Brush or spoon half of your bourbon barbecue sauce over the tops of the meatballs. This layer will caramelize in the oven and infuse them with smoky sweetness, creating the mouthwatering glaze that makes this recipe stand out.
Step 4: Bake the Meatballs
Place the meatballs in the oven and bake for 18 to 22 minutes or until they reach an internal temperature of 160°F. This ensures they’re cooked through, yet remain juicy and flavorful.
Step 5: Finish with More Sauce and Rest
When the meatballs are out of the oven, brush them with the remaining barbecue sauce for an extra burst of flavor. Let them rest for 5 minutes before serving—this helps lock in all those delicious juices.
How to Serve Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatballs Recipe
Garnishes
Think fresh and crunchy to balance the richness: chopped green onions, sliced pickles, or a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley adds color and a refreshing bite that complements the hearty meatballs perfectly.
Side Dishes
These meatballs pair wonderfully with creamy coleslaw, crispy French fries, or even a crisp green salad. Each side offers a contrast in texture and flavor, making the meal balanced and satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
Turn these meatballs into sliders by placing them on mini buns with extra barbecue sauce and a slice of cheese. Or serve them as a party appetizer with toothpicks and a bowl of extra bourbon barbecue sauce for dipping, sure to be a hit at any gathering.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, store the meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This helps preserve their moist texture and keeps flavors vibrant for easy next-day enjoyment.
Freezing
You can freeze cooked meatballs for up to 3 months. Arrange them on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag, preventing them from sticking together and allowing you to thaw only what you need.
Reheating
Reheat the meatballs gently in the oven at 350°F for 10–15 minutes or in the microwave on medium power until warmed through. Brush with extra bourbon barbecue sauce after reheating to revive that saucy deliciousness.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken will work; just keep in mind they’re leaner, so the meatballs may be less juicy. Adding a bit more bacon or cheese can help maintain flavor and moisture.
What if I don’t have bourbon barbecue sauce?
Feel free to substitute with your favorite barbecue sauce and add a splash of bourbon or whiskey if you have any on hand. This will give you that signature depth and smokiness the recipe calls for.
Can I make these meatballs gluten-free?
Yes, simply replace the regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers to keep the texture and binding properties intact.
How spicy is the recipe? Can I make it spicier?
The recipe has a mild heat from black pepper, but you can easily add extra spices like cayenne or chili powder to the meat mixture or choose a spicy bourbon barbecue sauce for an added kick.
What’s the best way to ensure the meatballs stay moist?
Using ground beef with 80/20 fat ratio, adding milk and egg, and not overmixing the meat are crucial. Also, brushing with barbecue sauce during and after baking seals in moisture and flavor beautifully.
Final Thoughts
This Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatballs Recipe is pure comfort food magic nestled in every bite. It’s guaranteed to become a fast favorite for your family and friends because it’s easy to make, packed with flavor, and an absolute joy to eat. I can’t wait for you to try it and see just how simple ingredients come together to create something truly unforgettable.
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Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatballs Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatballs combine the hearty flavors of classic cheeseburgers with a smoky bourbon barbecue twist. Made with ground beef, crispy bacon, and melted cheddar cheese, these meatballs are baked to juicy perfection and coated in a rich bourbon barbecue sauce. Perfect as a main course or party appetizer, they offer a delicious blend of savory and sweet in every bite.
Ingredients
Meatballs
- 1 1/2 pounds ground beef (80/20)
- 1/2 cup cooked bacon, finely chopped
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Sauce
- 1 cup bourbon barbecue sauce, divided
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, gently combine the ground beef, finely chopped cooked bacon, shredded cheddar cheese, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix just until combined to avoid overworking the meat.
- Form Meatballs: Scoop and roll the mixture into evenly sized meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Place them spaced evenly on the prepared baking sheet.
- Apply Initial Sauce: Brush or spoon half of the bourbon barbecue sauce over the tops of the meatballs to add flavor and glaze during baking.
- Bake: Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for 18 to 22 minutes or until they are cooked through and reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
- Final Sauce and Rest: Remove the meatballs from the oven, brush with the remaining bourbon barbecue sauce for extra flavor, and let them rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow juices to redistribute.
Notes
- For extra smoky flavor, use thick-cut bacon and a bold bourbon barbecue sauce.
- These meatballs can also be finished under the broiler for 2 to 3 minutes to caramelize the sauce for added texture and flavor.
- Serve with extra sauce for dipping or place on slider buns to create delicious party appetizers.
