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BBQ Bacon Cheddar Bombs

Category: Food That Makes People Think You've Got Life Figured Out

Savor the bold, comforting flavors of these BBQ bacon cheddar bombs. Ground beef gets seasoned with garlic, onion, and black pepper, then blended with sharp cheddar and tangy barbecue sauce for a savory punch. Each meatball is snugly wrapped in thick-cut bacon, secured with a toothpick, and baked or grilled until the bacon is perfectly crisp and caramelized. Serve them hot, garnished with green onions and a dip of your favorite BBQ sauce, for a bite-sized treat that pleases a crowd at cookouts or game nights. Make-ahead friendly, these snacks offer both smoky goodness and serious melt-in-your-mouth appeal.

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Clare Recipes
Created By Lily Chen
Updated on Sat, 09 Aug 2025 23:25:27 GMT
A plate of bacon wrapped meatballs with cheese. Save
A plate of bacon wrapped meatballs with cheese. | lilicooks.com

BBQ Bacon Cheddar Bombs are the ultimate go-to when you need a bold and effortless party snack that everyone grabs in seconds. Each bite has juicy beef, sharp cheddar, tangy BBQ sauce, and smoky bacon all wrapped up and crisped to perfection. Whether you bake or grill, these bombs are an absolute showstopper on game day or at backyard gatherings.

I still remember the first time I brought these to a summer barbecue—everyone wanted the recipe and not a crumb was left by the end. My kids now cheer when they see me mixing the meatball filling after school.

Ingredients

  • Ground beef: is best used at 80 percent lean to keep the meatballs moist and flavorful and to avoid a dry texture
  • BBQ sauce: adds tangy sweetness and brings all the flavors together—choose your favorite for a custom twist
  • Sharp cheddar cheese: delivers deep flavor and a melty center—pre-shredded saves time but block cheddar grated fresh gives best melt
  • Garlic powder and onion powder: provide an extra layer of taste and help season each bite more evenly than fresh
  • Black pepper: for a gentle spice kick and freshly cracked gives better aroma
  • Kosher salt: seasons the meat properly and enhances the bacon and beef
  • Thick-cut bacon: is key because it holds the meatball together and gives a hearty bite. Thin bacon can crisp too fast and break
  • Toothpicks: are essential for securing each bacon wrap—pre-soak them if you plan to grill so they do not burn
  • BBQ sauce for dipping: adds extra zing to the final plate
  • Green onion: offers fresh color and a hint of sharpness for finishing
  • Pickled jalapeno slices: for those who enjoy heat and a tangy punch

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare Your Baking Tray or Grill:
Cover a baking tray with foil or parchment to help with cleanup and add a wire rack to lift the bacon bombs up for even crisping. If grilling, heat to medium and oil lightly to keep food from sticking
Mix the Meatball Filling:
In a large bowl combine ground beef sharp cheddar BBQ sauce garlic powder onion powder pepper and salt. Mix with a spoon or your hands but do not overwork or the meatballs can become dense
Shape the Meatballs:
Divide the mixture into 12 equal portions. Roll each one gently between your palms to shape even rounds about 1 and a half inches across. If everything feels sticky dip your hands in cool water before rolling
Wrap in Bacon:
Take one slice of bacon and completely wrap it around a meatball. The bacon should overlap just a little so the filling is well sealed. Push a toothpick through the side to keep the bacon in place
Bake or Grill the Bacon Bombs:
Place each bacon-wrapped meatball onto the prepared rack or grill. Cook for 20 to 25 minutes in the oven flipping once or grill for 15 to 20 minutes turning with tongs every 5 minutes. The bacon turns crisp and golden and an instant-read thermometer should show 160 degrees inside
Drain and Rest:
Transfer to a plate lined with paper towels to catch extra grease. Let the bacon bombs rest for about 5 minutes so the juices settle
Serve and Garnish:
Remove the toothpicks or warn your guests before serving. Finish with diced green onions and serve with more BBQ sauce on the side. Add pickled jalapenos for spicy lovers
Cheddar-stuffed BBQ bacon bombs on a wooden table. Save
Cheddar-stuffed BBQ bacon bombs on a wooden table. | lilicooks.com

I love the way sharp cheddar melts through the meat and adds a stringy pull when you bite in. My favorite moment is seeing my family race to grab the last one and laughing as they try to guess if the next bite will be all cheese or extra saucy.

How to Store and Reheat

Keep leftover bacon bombs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. For best results reheat in a hot oven or toaster oven so the bacon stays crispy. Avoid microwaving since it softens the bacon and changes the texture.

Ingredient Swaps and Substitutions

Try smoked cheddar or pepper jack for a richer or spicier cheese center. Use turkey bacon for a lighter option but watch closely so it does not overcook. If beef is not your thing ground turkey or chicken works but expect a lighter texture.

Perfect Serving Ideas

Stack the bacon bombs high on a warm plate with toothpicks for an easy grab-and-go snack. Add a tray of fresh veggies or crunchy pickles on the side for balance. Or slide three onto a toasted bun with extra BBQ sauce for an unforgettable sandwich.

Cheddar-stuffed BBQ bacon bombs on a wooden platter. Save
Cheddar-stuffed BBQ bacon bombs on a wooden platter. | lilicooks.com

Smoky Bites Across America

These bacon bombs take inspiration from American barbecue and the tradition of wrapping meat and cheese in bacon for outdoor gatherings. The stuffed and smoky combo is a Midwest favorite and a frequent star at county fairs and big family parties.

Recipe FAQs

→ How do I keep the bacon crispy all around?

Bake or grill the meatballs on a wire rack so air circulates underneath, and flip them halfway for even crisping.

→ Can I prepare the meatballs in advance?

Yes, form and wrap the meatballs ahead of time, then refrigerate until ready to cook for convenience.

→ What type of BBQ sauce works best?

Use your favorite style—smoky, spicy, or sweet. Customize with added spices or liquid smoke for extra depth.

→ Can I use a different cheese?

Absolutely. Smoked cheddar, Monterey Jack, or even pepper jack bring extra flavor and melting quality.

→ How do I ensure the meatballs stay juicy?

Mix the beef gently, avoid overworking, and don’t overcook—check doneness with a thermometer for best results.

BBQ Bacon Cheddar Bombs

Cheesy BBQ meatballs wrapped in crispy bacon, ideal for sharing at parties or casual get-togethers.

Preparation Time
15 min
Cooking Time
25 min
Overall Time
40 min
Created By: Lily Chen

Category: Party & Snacks

Skill Level: Beginner-Friendly

Cuisine Type: American BBQ

Output: 6 Serves (12 stuffed bacon treats)

Dietary Options: Low-Carb, Gluten-Free

Ingredients

→ Meatball Ingredients

01 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend recommended)
02 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
03 1/2 cup grated sharp cheddar cheese
04 1 tsp garlic powder
05 1 tsp onion powder
06 1/4 tsp freshly cracked black pepper
07 1/2 tsp kosher salt

→ Bacon Wrapping

08 12 strips thick-cut bacon
09 12 toothpicks (soaked in water if grilling)

→ Optional Toppings

10 Additional BBQ sauce for dipping
11 Diced green onions for garnish
12 Pickled jalapeños for extra flavor

Steps

Step 01

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking tray with foil or parchment paper. Add a wire rack on top for even crisping. If using a grill, preheat to 375°F and lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking.

Step 02

In a large bowl, combine ground beef, grated cheddar, BBQ sauce, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Mix gently to maintain a tender texture.

Step 03

Divide the mixture into 12 equal parts by first dividing in halves, then each half into 6. Roll each portion into a 1.5-inch ball, wetting hands with cool water if the mixture sticks.

Step 04

Wrap each meatball with a slice of bacon, overlapping slightly to cover. Secure with a toothpick. Repeat for all meatballs.

Step 05

Place the bacon-wrapped meatballs on the grill and close the lid. Cook for 15-20 minutes, rotating with tongs for even cooking. Check for doneness with a thermometer (160°F). Move meatballs away from flare-ups caused by dripping fat if necessary.

Step 06

For oven cooking, place the wrapped meatballs on the prepared tray or wire rack. Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through. Check for doneness with a thermometer (160°F).

Step 07

Transfer cooked meatballs onto a plate lined with paper towels. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Remove toothpicks before serving or inform guests. Optionally, garnish with diced green onions and serve with BBQ sauce for dipping.

Tips

  1. To avoid flare-ups on the grill, shift meatballs to cooler sections if bacon fat drips.
  2. These meatballs can be prepped ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator before cooking.
  3. For enhanced flavor, swap cheddar cheese with smoked cheddar or add liquid smoke to the BBQ sauce.

Required Tools

  • Grill or oven
  • Baking tray with foil or parchment
  • Wire rack
  • Mixing bowl
  • Measuring spoons and cups
  • Toothpicks
  • Meat thermometer
  • Tongs

Nutritional Information (per serving)

These details are shared for general guidance and don’t replace professional advice.
  • Calories: 250
  • Fats: 20 g
  • Carbohydrates: 4 g
  • Proteins: 15 g