Why You’ll Love This Recipe
They’re incredibly flavorful with a perfect mix of savory, cheesy, and sweet. Fun to make and even more fun to eat. They’re perfect as an appetizer or main course. Easy to prep ahead and cook later. You only need a handful of ingredients for a big impact.
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
Mixing bowl
Cutting board and knife
Measuring spoons
Baking sheet
Parchment paper or foil
Toothpicks (optional for securing bacon)
Oven
Tips for Success
Use cold cheese cubes to make stuffing easier. Don’t overwork the meat mixture or the texture will be tough. Secure the bacon ends underneath or with a toothpick to keep it from unraveling. Line your baking sheet to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier. Broil for a few minutes at the end if you want extra crispy bacon.
Ingredients
1 lb ground beef
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
4 oz cheddar cheese, cut into 1/2-inch cubes
10–12 slices of bacon
1/2 cup barbecue sauce (plus extra for serving)
Directions
Preheat your oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. In a bowl, mix the ground beef with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Divide the mixture into 10–12 portions. Flatten each portion, place a cheddar cube in the center, and form the meat around the cheese to seal it completely. Wrap each meatball with a slice of bacon, securing the ends underneath or with a toothpick. Place on the baking sheet and brush each with barbecue sauce. Bake for 25–30 minutes until the bacon is cooked and the meat is fully done. For crispier bacon, broil for 2–3 minutes at the end. Brush with more barbecue sauce before serving if desired.
Additional Tips or Variations
Try using pepper jack or mozzarella for a twist. Mix a bit of chopped jalapeño into the beef for spice. Use turkey bacon for a leaner option. Serve on skewers for party appetizers or over mashed potatoes for dinner. You can also grill them over indirect heat for a smoky, charred flavor.