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Transform your favorite bacon cheeseburger into bite-sized, saucy meatballs that are perfect for game day, parties, or a fun family dinner! These juicy, cheesy meatballs are packed with smoky bacon, melty cheddar, and tangy BBQ sauce—all the flavors you love in a burger, but easier to eat!
With just 30 minutes of prep, these crowd-pleasing meatballs will be the star of your next gathering. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✔ All the flavors of a bacon cheeseburger – In a bite-sized, party-friendly form!
✔ Easy to make – No fancy techniques, just mix, roll, and cook.
✔ Great for meal prep – Make ahead and reheat for quick meals.
✔ Versatile serving options – Serve as an appetizer, slider filling, or main dish.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Meatballs
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 for best juiciness)
- ½ cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
- 1 egg, beaten (binder)
- ¼ cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 4 slices bacon, cooked & crumbled
- ¼ cup finely chopped onion
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce (adds umami depth)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt & pepper to taste
- Cheese cubes (optional) – For a gooey, stuffed center!
For the BBQ Sauce Glaze
- ½ cup BBQ sauce (smoky or sweet, your choice!)
- 2 tbsp ketchup
- 1 tbsp mustard (yellow or Dijon)
For Serving (Optional)
- Extra BBQ sauce for dipping
- Toothpicks for easy grabbing
- Mini buns for sliders
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook the Bacon
- Cook 4 bacon slices until crispy, then crumble into small pieces.
2. Make the Meatball Mixture
- In a large bowl, combine:
- Ground beef
- Breadcrumbs, egg, cheddar, bacon, onion
- Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt & pepper
- Mix gently with hands (don’t overwork the meat!).
3. Form the Meatballs
- Roll into 1–1.5-inch balls (about 20 meatballs).
- Optional: Press a small cheese cube into the center for an extra-melty surprise!
4. Cook the Meatballs
Stovetop Method (Best for Browning)
- Heat 1 tbsp oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Cook meatballs 8–10 minutes, turning until browned all over.
Oven Method (Easier for Large Batches)
- Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15–20 minutes until cooked through.
5. Make the BBQ Glaze
- In a small bowl, mix:
- BBQ sauce + ketchup + mustard.
6. Coat & Simmer
- Pour sauce over cooked meatballs.
- Simmer 5 minutes to thicken the glaze.
7. Serve & Enjoy!
- Skewer with toothpicks for parties.
- Serve on mini buns as sliders.
- Drizzle with extra BBQ sauce for dipping.
Pro Tips for the Best Meatballs
🔥 Don’t Overmix – Keeps them tender.
🧀 Use Cold Meat – Easier to shape.
🍖 Bake or Pan-Fry?
- Pan-frying = crispier exterior
- Baking = hands-off & even cooking
🍯 Sauce Variations - Spicy: Add hot sauce or sriracha.
- Honey Mustard: Swap BBQ sauce for honey + mustard.
Serving Suggestions
🍔 Slider Style – Serve on Hawaiian rolls with pickles & extra cheese.
🍟 Game-Day Platter – Pair with fries, ranch, and celery sticks.
🥗 Meal Prep – Keep in the fridge for 3–4 days or freeze for later!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use turkey or chicken instead of beef?
Yes! Just add 1 tbsp olive oil to keep them moist.
Can I make these ahead?
Absolutely! Prep & refrigerate raw meatballs for 24 hours or freeze cooked meatballs for 3 months.
What’s the best BBQ sauce?
Use your favorite—smoky, sweet, or spicy all work!
Final Thoughts
These BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatballs are irresistibly flavorful, easy to make, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party or just craving burger goodness in bite-size form, this recipe is a must-try!
Want more party appetizers? Try these next: