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Bourbon BBQ Bacon Meatballs Recipe

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4.6 from 115 reviews

These Sizzling Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatballs are a flavorful twist on traditional meatballs, combining juicy ground beef with smoky bacon, sharp cheddar, and a splash of bourbon. Perfectly baked and glazed with tangy BBQ sauce, they make an irresistible appetizer or main dish for any casual gathering.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 1 lb ground beef (lean)
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (panko or gluten-free)
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup BBQ sauce, plus extra for glazing
  • 2 tablespoons bourbon
  • 1 large egg
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 4 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
  • Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (204°C) to ensure it’s ready for baking the meatballs evenly.
  2. Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, chopped onion, minced garlic, BBQ sauce, bourbon, egg, salt, and pepper. Gently mix until just combined to avoid overworking the meat and keep the meatballs tender.
  3. Add Bacon and Cheese: Fold in the crumbled bacon and shredded cheddar cheese carefully, evenly distributing the smoky and cheesy flavors throughout the meat mixture.
  4. Shape Meatballs: Slightly wet your hands to prevent sticking and shape the mixture into 1.5-inch meatballs, making sure they’re uniform in size for even cooking.
  5. Arrange and Bake: Place the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper to prevent sticking and bake for 20 to 25 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C), ensuring they are fully cooked and safe to eat.
  6. Glaze With BBQ Sauce: In the last few minutes of baking, brush the meatballs with extra BBQ sauce to create a glossy, flavorful glaze that caramelizes slightly during the final minutes of cooking.
  7. Garnish and Serve: Optionally sprinkle fresh parsley over the meatballs for a pop of color and fresh touch before serving hot.

Notes

  • Use lean ground beef to reduce excess grease and keep the meatballs juicy.
  • Substitute gluten-free breadcrumbs if needed to make the recipe gluten-free.
  • Ensure the internal temperature reaches 160°F for safe consumption of ground beef.
  • Bourbon adds a subtle smoky sweetness but can be omitted or replaced with additional BBQ sauce for a non-alcoholic version.
  • Let meatballs rest a few minutes after baking to redistribute juices.

Find it online: https://mealoria.com/bourbon-bbq-bacon-meatballs-recipe/