Hey everyone, Jason Griffith here from Chefmaniac, and today we’re taking two American classics—BBQ and cheeseburgers—and rolling them into one utterly irresistible package: BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatballs. Forget the bun; these savory, cheesy, bacon-packed meatballs are bursting with flavor and perfect for everything from a party appetizer to a fun weeknight dinner. Get ready for a delicious twist on your favorite burger experience!

Why I Love This Recipe

What’s not to love about a bite-sized burst of flavor? These meatballs are incredibly versatile and always a huge hit. They capture all the best elements of a bacon cheeseburger—the rich beef, the smoky bacon, and the gooey cheese—and infuse it with tangy BBQ sauce, all in a convenient, dippable form. They’re surprisingly simple to make, bake up beautifully, and disappear even faster. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just looking for a creative, kid-friendly meal, these meatballs are a winner.

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Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to roll out these delicious meatballs:

• 1 lb ground beef (80/20 lean works great for flavor and moisture)
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (plain or Panko)
• 1 egg
• 1/4 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand and flavor!)
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled (crispy is key here)
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Swaps and Notes

This recipe is very flexible, allowing for delicious variations:

• Ground Beef: You can easily substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option, though the classic beef flavor truly shines here.
• BBQ Sauce: Feel free to experiment with different BBQ sauce flavors – smoky, sweet, spicy, or even a Carolina gold style would work!
• Cheese: While cheddar is classic for a cheeseburger, you could use a blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack, or even a smoky provolone.
• Bacon: Make sure your bacon is cooked until crisp before crumbling it, as this adds a fantastic texture contrast. If you’re in a pinch, good quality bacon bits can work, but fresh bacon is always best.
• Seasoning: A pinch of onion powder, a dash of smoked paprika, or even a tiny bit of chili powder could enhance the flavor profile.

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Steps for the Recipe

Let’s get these flavorful meatballs cooking!

1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
2. Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, BBQ sauce, shredded cheddar cheese, cooked and crumbled bacon, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Mix Well: Using your hands (the best tools!), gently mix all the ingredients until they are well combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatballs tough. Mix just until everything is incorporated.
4. Form Meatballs: Shape the mixture into meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter. Aim for uniform size so they cook evenly. Place them on your prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between each.
5. Bake to Perfection: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through and browned. The internal temperature of the beef should reach 160°F (71°C).
6. Serve Hot: Remove from the oven and serve hot.

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Tips for Success

• Don’t Overmix: This is crucial for tender meatballs. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.
• Cook Bacon Crispy: Crispy bacon adds a wonderful textural element and smoky flavor that you won’t get from chewy bacon.
• Uniform Size: Shaping the meatballs to be roughly the same size ensures they all cook at the same rate.
• Parchment Paper: Lining your baking sheet with parchment paper prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
• Resting Time: While not strictly necessary, letting the meatballs rest for a couple of minutes after baking allows the juices to redistribute, keeping them moist.

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Serving Suggestions and Pairings

These BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatballs are incredibly versatile.

• Appetizer: Serve them on a platter with toothpicks and small bowls of extra BBQ sauce, ranch dressing, or a special burger sauce for dipping.
• Main Course: Serve them over mashed potatoes, rice, or even a bed of crispy tater tots for a fun and satisfying meal.
• Sliders: Tuck them into mini slider buns with a slice of pickle for mini burger sliders.
• For an ultimate game day spread, pair these with These Totchos are My Favorite Party Food Hack for an unbeatable combination!

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Storage and Leftover Tips

Leftover BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatballs can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. They reheat well in the microwave or in a 300°F (150°C) oven until warmed through. They also freeze well for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

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More Recipes You Will Love

If you enjoyed the flavor of these BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatballs, you’re going to love these other cheesy and savory creations:

• For another crowd-pleasing appetizer that’s big on flavor, check out these Easy Cheesy Chicken Sliders with Marinara Garlic Butter.
• If you’re a fan of cheesy dips, This Crockpot Nacho Dip is the Reason I Never Have Leftovers is a must-try.
• And for an innovative twist on a classic, see How I Turned a Classic Sandwich into the Ultimate Cheesy Hot Dip.
• Don’t forget to include This Beer Cheese Dip is My Favorite Party Starter That Disappears in Minutes at your next gathering!

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Final Thoughts

These BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatballs are a testament to how simple ingredients can come together to create something truly special. They offer all the beloved flavors of a classic burger in a fun, shareable, and easy-to-make format. They’re perfect for any occasion where delicious, comforting food is on the menu.

Have you tried making “burger” inspired meatballs before? What are your favorite ways to serve them? Let me know in the comments below! And don’t forget to follow Chefmaniac for more culinary adventures.