If cheesy, meaty, saucy comfort food is your love language, then these Baked Mac ’n’ Cheese Stuffed Meatball Bombs with BBQ Drizzle are your new obsession. This recipe takes tender baked meatballs, hides a pocket of creamy mac ’n’ cheese inside, and tops it all off with a sweet and smoky BBQ drizzle. It’s bold, fun, and ridiculously satisfying—perfect for game day, party appetizers, or a weeknight treat that feels like a celebration.
Why I Love This Recipe
It’s everything we love about comfort food rolled into one: juicy beef, melty cheese, pasta, and a pop of BBQ sauce. It feels indulgent, but it’s easy to make with simple ingredients. These meatball bombs also reheat like a dream, making them ideal for prep-ahead lunches or snacking through the week.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup cooked macaroni noodles
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
- ¼ cup milk
- ¼ cup BBQ sauce (plus more for drizzling)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Swaps & Notes
- Cheese Options: Cheddar is classic, but feel free to use a cheese blend, pepper jack, or gouda for extra melt.
- Pasta Shortcut: Leftover mac ’n’ cheese works great!
- Breadcrumb Options: Panko gives a crispier texture; regular breadcrumbs are softer.
- Spice It Up: Add a pinch of smoked paprika or cayenne to the meat mix for a kick.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat & Prep:
Preheat your oven to 375°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil. - Mix the Meatball Base:
In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, salt, and pepper. Mix until fully combined. - Form the Bombs:
Flatten a portion of the meat mixture in your palm. Add a spoonful of cooked mac ’n’ cheese in the center. Carefully wrap the beef around the filling and form into a meatball shape. - Bake:
Place the stuffed meatballs on the prepared sheet and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until cooked through and golden. - Warm the Sauce:
In a small saucepan, warm ¼ cup BBQ sauce over low heat. - Finish & Serve:
Remove meatballs from the oven and immediately drizzle with warm BBQ sauce. Serve hot and dig in!
Tips for Success
- Seal the Edges: Make sure the mac ’n’ cheese is completely enclosed to avoid leakage during baking.
- Use Chilled Mac: Cold mac ’n’ cheese holds its shape better for stuffing.
- Don’t Overwork the Meat: Mix just until combined to keep meatballs tender.
- Drizzle Generously: More BBQ equals more flavor—don’t be shy!
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
These meatball bombs are perfect on their own or as the centerpiece of a comfort food spread:
- Party Platter: Serve with Beer Cheese Dip and Totchos.
- Game Day Feast: Add Sheet Pan Quesadillas and Crockpot Nacho Dip for the ultimate appetizer lineup.
- Mini Sandwiches: Serve in a slider bun for messy, cheesy, BBQ meatball sandwiches.
- Make It a Meal: Pair with roasted veggies or a simple coleslaw.
Storage & Leftover Tips
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Reheat: Warm in a 350°F oven for 10 minutes or microwave in 30-second bursts.
- Freeze: Freeze cooked meatballs on a baking sheet, then transfer to a zip-top bag. Reheat from frozen for easy meals.
More Recipes You’ll Love
Looking for more bold, cheesy crowd-pleasers? Try these:
- Easy Cheesy Chicken Sliders with Marinara Garlic Butter
- Totchos – Tater Tot Nachos
- Beer Cheese Dip
- Crockpot Nacho Dip
- Sheet Pan Quesadillas
Final Thoughts
These Mac ’n’ Cheese Stuffed Meatball Bombs with BBQ Drizzle are a full-on flavor explosion. They’re comforting, fun to make, and guaranteed to impress at any gathering. Whether you’re serving them at your next party or treating yourself on a cozy night in, this recipe brings big joy in every bite.
💬 Tried it? Tag @ChefManiac or drop a comment below—what did you stuff your meatballs with? Don’t forget to follow for more mouthwatering recipes!
Related posts:
