Football Game Day BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatballs

Football game days are the perfect excuse to indulge in mouth-watering snacks, and nothing gets the crowd going like a platter of BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatballs! These bite-sized flavor bombs combine everything you love about a bacon cheeseburger in a convenient, party-ready package. Picture this: tender beef meatballs seasoned with classic burger spices, stuffed with gooey cheese, wrapped in crispy bacon, and slathered in tangy BBQ sauce. It’s the ultimate game day food that’s easy to eat while you cheer on your favorite team.

Whether you’re hosting a backyard BBQ or tailgating at the stadium, these meatballs are guaranteed to be a hit. They’re quick to prepare, fun to eat, and deliver that satisfying mix of smoky, savory, and sweet flavors that keeps you coming back for more. Get your grill or oven fired up, grab your favorite BBQ sauce, and let’s get these bacon-wrapped beauties on the table just in time for kick-off!

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 large egg
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 12 slices of bacon, halved
• 1/2 cup BBQ sauce (plus more for dipping)

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) or fire up the grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
3. Form the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.
4. Press a small amount of shredded cheddar cheese into the center of each meatball, then reshape the meatball to enclose the cheese.
5. Wrap each meatball with half a slice of bacon, securing it with a toothpick if needed.
6. Place the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or on a grill pan.
7. Bake for 15-18 minutes in the oven or grill for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the bacon is crispy and the meatballs are cooked through.
8. Brush with BBQ sauce in the last 5 minutes of cooking.

How to Prepare

Start by prepping your meatball mixture, making sure the beef is well-seasoned. The trick is to mix just enough to combine everything without overworking the meat, which can make the meatballs tough. Stuffing them with cheddar cheese adds a delightful surprise in every bite. Wrapping the meatballs in bacon is easier than it sounds—just make sure the bacon overlaps slightly to ensure it stays put during cooking. Whether you bake them in the oven or cook them on the grill, keep an eye on the bacon for perfect crispness. Finally, brushing them with BBQ sauce at the end gives them that sticky, sweet, and smoky finish.

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15-18 minutes (oven) or 10-12 minutes (grill)
• Total Time: 30-33 minutes

Servings

Makes about 24 meatballs, perfect for 6-8 people.

FAQs

Q1: Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?
Yes! You can prep the meatballs and wrap them in bacon ahead of time, then refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before cooking.

Q2: Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely. Swap the cheddar for mozzarella, pepper jack, or any melty cheese you prefer for different flavor profiles.

Q3: How do I ensure the bacon gets crispy?
If baking, make sure to use a wire rack so the heat circulates around the meatballs. For grilling, turn them frequently to ensure even cooking.

Q4: Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes, these meatballs freeze well. Place them in an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven for best results.

Q5: What BBQ sauce works best?
Choose a tangy, smoky BBQ sauce for a classic flavor. However, feel free to experiment with spicier or sweeter sauces depending on your taste.

Conclusion

Football Game Day BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatballs are the perfect appetizer to serve up when you’re gathering with friends and family to watch the big game. They bring together everything you love about a cheeseburger—beef, bacon, cheese, and BBQ sauce—into a bite-sized, easy-to-eat package. Not only are these meatballs simple to make, but they also pack a ton of flavor that will satisfy both kids and adults alike. Serve them with extra BBQ sauce for dipping and watch them disappear as fast as the game plays on. With this winning snack in your lineup, you’re sure to score big on game day!

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