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
Scale
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.
