Description
Savory, smoky meatballs loaded with cheddar and wrapped in turkey bacon. These BBQ Turkey Bacon Cheddar Bombs are crispy, juicy, and perfect for any party or casual dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend)
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite kind)
- 1/2 cup grated sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/4 tsp freshly cracked black pepper
- 1/2 tsp kosher salt
- 12 strips thick-cut turkey bacon
- 12 toothpicks (soaked if grilling)
- Optional: More BBQ sauce, diced green onion, pickled jalapeños
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) or preheat grill. If baking, line a tray with foil and place a wire rack on top.
- In a large bowl, gently mix ground beef, cheddar cheese, BBQ sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Divide mixture into 12 equal parts and roll into 1½-inch balls.
- Wrap each ball with a strip of turkey bacon and secure with a toothpick.
- For grilling: Cook over indirect heat for 15–20 minutes, turning occasionally. Ensure internal temperature reaches 160°F.
- For baking: Place wrapped meatballs on rack and bake for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through. Check internal temperature for doneness.
- Let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Remove toothpicks or inform guests they’re inside.
- Garnish with green onion and serve with additional BBQ sauce or pickled jalapeños if desired.
Notes
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure doneness at 160°F.
- Wet hands before rolling meatballs to prevent sticking.
- Thicker BBQ sauce gives better caramelization.
- Turkey bacon is a leaner option but still gets crispy when cooked properly.
- Great for meal prep and freezer-friendly.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bomb
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 13g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
Keywords: BBQ Turkey Bacon Bombs, cheddar-stuffed meatballs, bacon-wrapped BBQ, party appetizers, cheesy meatball bites