Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball: A Must-Try Savory Delight!

Introduction to Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball

As a busy mom, I know how precious mealtime can be. Tossing together a meal that pleases everyone is a challenge. That’s where my Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball comes to rescue! These savory delights combine the classic flavors of cheeseburgers with comfort food magic. They’re perfect whether you’re whipping up dinner or hosting friends for a game night. Plus, they’re a breeze to prepare, even on those chaotic days. Trust me, with just one bite, you’ll feel the love wrapped in each cheesy, bacon-infused meatball, ready to bring joy to your dinner table!

Why You’ll Love This Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball

Who doesn’t love the mouthwatering combination of bacon and cheeseburger flavors? These Bacon Cheeseburger Meatballs are not only irresistibly delicious, but they also fit seamlessly into busy schedules. They’re quick to prepare and can be whipped up in just 45 minutes. Whether as a snack for the kids or a showstopper for friends, they deliver flavor without the fuss, making every mealtime a delightful experience.

Ingredients for Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball

Gathering your ingredients is the first step to culinary magic with these Bacon Cheeseburger Meatballs! Here’s what you’ll need:

  • Ground Beef: An 80/20 blend is ideal for the perfect balance of flavor and juiciness.
  • Ground Bacon: Crumbled cooked bacon adds a rich, smoky flavor. About eight slices should do the trick!
  • Panko Bread Crumbs: These provide a light, crispy texture that helps bind the meatballs without making them dense.
  • Milk: A splash of milk keeps the meatballs tender and moist.
  • Egg: A large egg acts as a binding agent, helping to keep everything together.
  • Yellow Onion: Finely diced onion brings sweetness and depth to the flavor profile.
  • Garlic: Minced garlic adds that savory punch we all crave in our meatballs.
  • Worcestershire Sauce: This adds complexity and umami, enhancing the burger flavor.
  • Dijon Mustard: A touch of mustard contributes a zing that elevates the taste.
  • Smoked Paprika: This gives a subtle smokiness that complements the bacon brilliant.
  • Garlic Powder & Onion Powder: These seasonings give excellent depth without overpowering the dish.
  • Salt and Black Pepper: Essential for bringing all the flavors together, adjust to your taste.
  • Sharp Cheddar Cheese: Cut into cubes, this cheese adds melty goodness when stuffed inside the meatballs.
  • Mayonnaise, Ketchup, Yellow Mustard, Sweet Pickle Relish, and White Vinegar: These ingredients create a delicious burger sauce to pair with your meatballs.
  • Cayenne Pepper: Optional, for those who like a little kick!
  • Sesame Seed Buns: Toasted buns are perfect for serving your meatballs as sliders.
  • Lettuce, Tomato, Red Onion, and Pickle Chips: These toppings add freshness and crunch when assembling your meatball burgers.

For exact measurements of all these ingredients, check the bottom of the article where everything is listed for easy printing. Happy cooking!

How to Make Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball

Prepare the Bacon

Start by cooking the bacon until it’s nice and crispy.
This step not only adds flavor but also texture to the meatballs.

Combine Meatball Ingredients

In a large bowl, add the ground beef along with the crumbled bacon.
Then mix in the panko bread crumbs and milk. Gently combine everything to ensure even flavor distribution.

Prepare Wet Ingredients

In a separate small bowl, whisk together the beaten egg, diced yellow onion, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, and Dijon mustard.
The smoked paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder join the party here too, adding a depth of flavor!

Combine Wet and Dry

Pour the wet mixture into the bowl with the ground meat ingredients.
Season the mix generously with salt and black pepper, then gently fold everything together until just combined. Don’t overmix; we want tender meatballs!

Stuff with Cheese

Now here comes the fun part! Take about 2-3 tablespoons of the meat mixture and flatten it in the palm of your hand.
Place a cube of sharp cheddar cheese in the center and fold the edges around the cheese. Roll it into a smooth ball, sealing in the cheesy goodness.

Baking Method

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange your cheese-stuffed meatballs on it. Leave a little space between each one. Bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until they reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C). Let them rest for a few minutes before serving; patience pays off!

Pan-Frying Method

If you prefer a skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large pan over medium heat.
Gently add the meatballs, ensuring they have space to brown nicely. Flip them occasionally for about 8-10 minutes, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and cook for another 5-7 minutes until they’re fully cooked through.

Make the Burger Sauce

In a medium bowl, combine mayonnaise, ketchup, yellow mustard, sweet pickle relish, and white vinegar.
Whisk in garlic powder and paprika, adjusting seasoning as needed. For a little kick, don’t forget to sprinkle in some cayenne pepper!

Assemble and Serve

Now it’s time to bring it all together! Serve your meatballs on toasted sesame seed buns topped with fresh lettuce, tomato slices, red onion, and pickle chips.
Alternatively, you can serve them as an appetizer with the burger sauce for dipping. Talk about a delicious twist!

Tips for Success

  • Use lean ground beef (80/20) for juicier meatballs.
  • Chill the formed meatballs for 15 minutes before cooking for better shapes.
  • Experiment with spices like cayenne for a personalized kick!
  • Make extra burger sauce; it’s perfect as a dip for fries too.
  • These meatballs freeze well—prep ahead for busy nights!

Equipment Needed for Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball

  • Large mixing bowl for combining ingredients.
  • Small bowl for whisking wet ingredients.
  • Baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a non-stick skillet for cooking.
  • Measuring cups and spoons for precise ingredient portions.
  • Wooden spoon or spatula for mixing.

Variations on Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball

  • Turkey bacon or ground turkey: Swap ground beef with ground turkey for a lighter option, and use turkey bacon to keep it lean.
  • Vegetarian option: Use a plant-based meat substitute and add diced mushrooms for moisture. This way, everyone can enjoy the flavor!
  • Cheese variety: Experiment with different cheeses like pepper jack for a kick or mozzarella for that gooey stretch!
  • Spicy meatballs: Mix in chopped jalapeños or red pepper flakes for those who crave heat in every bite.
  • Herb-infused: Add fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro to the meat mixture for a fresh burst of flavor.

Serving Suggestions for Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball

  • Pair with crispy sweet potato fries for a delightful crunch.
  • Serve alongside a fresh garden salad with tangy vinaigrette.
  • Offer a side of creamy coleslaw to balance the meatballs’ richness.
  • Complement with chilled lemonade or iced tea for a refreshing drink.
  • Present on a large platter for a fun, family-style meal experience!

FAQs about Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball

Can I make Bacon Cheeseburger Meatballs ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the meatballs and freeze them before cooking. Just thaw and cook them when you’re ready for a quick meal!

What’s the best way to reheat leftover meatballs?
The best way is to reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes. This ensures they regain their delicious texture!

Can I use different types of cheese?
Yes! Feel free to mix it up with cheeses like pepper jack for a spicy kick or mozzarella for that gooey, melt-in-your-mouth texture.

What should I serve with these meatballs?
They are fantastic served with crispy fries, a fresh salad, or as sliders in toasted buns with your favorite toppings. The possibilities are endless!

How can I make these meatballs spicier?
Simply add more cayenne pepper to the meat mixture or include diced jalapeños for that extra heat. Your taste buds will thank you!

Final Thoughts

There’s something genuinely heartwarming about gathering around the table with family, sharing laughter, and enjoying a delicious meal like Bacon Cheeseburger Meatballs.

These flavorful bites bring together the joy of a classic cheeseburger and the satisfaction of a home-cooked meal, reminding us how food creates memories.

Whether you’re serving them as appetizers or as a casual dinner, they are sure to impress and bring smiles.

With every cheesy, bacon-filled bite, you’ll feel that wonderful blend of comfort and happiness, making mealtimes a cherished part of your day. Enjoy every moment!

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Bacon Cheeseburger Meatballs – All the Flavor, Half the Mess!

Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball: A Must-Try Savory Delight!


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  • Author: Samantha
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 46 servings 1x
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball is a savory delight that combines the flavors of a classic cheeseburger in a delicious meatball form, ideal for appetizers or main dishes.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 lbs Ground Beef (80/20 blend recommended for flavor)
  • 1/2 lb Ground Bacon (cooked and crumbled, about 8 slices)
  • 1 cup Panko Bread Crumbs
  • 1/2 cup Milk
  • 1 large Egg, lightly beaten
  • 1/4 cup Yellow Onion, finely diced
  • 2 cloves Garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons 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 oz Sharp Cheddar Cheese, cut into 1/2-inch cubes
  • 1/2 cup Mayonnaise
  • 2 tablespoons Ketchup
  • 1 tablespoon Yellow Mustard
  • 1 tablespoon Sweet Pickle Relish
  • 1 teaspoon White Vinegar
  • 1/2 teaspoon Garlic Powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon Paprika
  • Pinch of Cayenne Pepper (optional)
  • Sesame Seed Buns, toasted
  • Lettuce leaves
  • Tomato slices
  • Red Onion slices
  • Pickle chips

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Bacon: Cook bacon until crispy. Crumble into small pieces and set aside.
  2. Combine Meatball Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, crumbled bacon, panko bread crumbs, and milk. Gently mix.
  3. Prepare Wet Ingredients: In a separate small bowl, whisk together egg, diced yellow onion, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder.
  4. Combine Wet and Dry: Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with the ground beef mixture. Season generously with salt and black pepper. Gently mix until just combined.
  5. Stuff with Cheese: Take a small handful of the meat mixture (about 2-3 tablespoons) and flatten it slightly in the palm of your hand. Place a cube of sharp cheddar cheese in the center of the flattened meat. Carefully bring the edges of the meat up and around the cheese, sealing it completely. Gently roll the meatball between your palms to form a smooth, round shape.
  6. Baking Method: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Arrange the cheese-stuffed meatballs on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between each one. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). Let the meatballs rest for a few minutes before serving.
  7. Pan-Frying Method: Heat a tablespoon of olive oil or vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Carefully place the cheese-stuffed meatballs in the skillet, leaving some space between each one. Cook the meatballs for about 8-10 minutes, turning them frequently to ensure they brown evenly on all sides. Once browned, reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for another 5-7 minutes until fully cooked.
  8. Make the Burger Sauce: In a medium bowl, combine mayonnaise, ketchup, yellow mustard, sweet pickle relish, white vinegar, garlic powder, and paprika. Add cayenne pepper if desired. Whisk until smooth. Refrigerate until ready to serve.
  9. Assemble and Serve: Serve on toasted sesame seed buns with lettuce, tomato, red onion, pickle chips, and burger sauce. Alternatively, serve as an appetizer with burger sauce for dipping, over mashed potatoes, in a salad, or as a snack.

Notes

  • For a spicier sauce, increase the amount of cayenne pepper.
  • These meatballs can be made ahead and frozen before cooking.
  • Adjust seasoning according to personal preference.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Appetizer/Main Dish
  • Method: Baking or Pan-Frying
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 meatball
  • Calories: 280
  • Sugar: 1g
  • Sodium: 600mg
  • Fat: 20g
  • Saturated Fat: 8g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 6g
  • Fiber: 0g
  • Protein: 18g
  • Cholesterol: 65mg

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