Cheddar Stuffed BBQ Bacon Bombs: Cheesy, Savory, and Perfectly Crispy
Cheddar Stuffed BBQ Bacon Bombs are the ultimate party appetizer or indulgent snack. Each bite-sized bomb features a savory beef center stuffed with gooey cheddar cheese, wrapped in crispy bacon, and brushed with smoky BBQ sauce. They’re perfect for game days, potlucks, or anytime you want a show-stopping appetizer.
The combination of smoky bacon, melty cheddar, and flavorful seasoned beef makes these bombs addictive. They’re also easy to make ahead of time, which makes entertaining stress-free and fun.
Ingredients
- Ground Beef: 1 lb, 80/20 for juiciness
- Cheddar Cheese: 4 oz, cut into small cubes
- Bacon: 12 strips
- BBQ Sauce: ¼ cup for brushing
- Garlic Powder: 1 tsp
- Onion Powder: 1 tsp
- Salt & Pepper: To taste
- Optional Garnish: Chopped parsley or green onions
Instructions
- Preheat oven: to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil.
- Prepare beef balls: In a mixing bowl, combine ground beef, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Divide into 12 equal portions.
- Stuff with cheese: Flatten each beef portion slightly, place a cube of cheddar in the center, and wrap the beef around it to seal completely.
- Wrap with bacon: Take a strip of bacon and wrap it around each stuffed beef ball. Secure with a toothpick if needed.
- Bake: Place bombs on prepared baking sheet. Brush each with BBQ sauce. Bake 25–30 minutes, turning halfway through, until bacon is crispy and beef is cooked through.
- Serve: Remove toothpicks and brush with additional BBQ sauce if desired. Garnish with parsley or green onions. Serve hot.
Tips for Perfect Cheddar Stuffed BBQ Bacon Bombs
- Bacon tips: Partially cook bacon for 5–7 minutes before wrapping to ensure it crisps evenly.
- Cheese retention: Don’t overfill the beef with cheese to prevent leakage.
- Make ahead: Assemble bombs and refrigerate for a few hours; bake before serving.
- Serving ideas: Serve with extra BBQ sauce, ranch, or blue cheese dressing.
Variations
- Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños to the beef mixture.
- Cheese Variety: Use pepper jack, mozzarella, or smoked gouda instead of cheddar.
- Mini Bombs: Make smaller versions for bite-sized appetizers.
- Sweet & Smoky: Brush bacon with a little brown sugar mixed into BBQ sauce before baking.
Cheddar Stuffed BBQ Bacon Bombs
Savory ground beef stuffed with cheddar cheese, wrapped in crispy bacon, and brushed with smoky BBQ sauce. Perfect for parties or game days.
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil.
- In a bowl, mix ground beef with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Divide into 12 portions.
- Flatten each beef portion, place a cube of cheddar inside, and wrap beef around it to seal.
- Wrap each beef ball with a strip of bacon and secure with toothpicks if needed.
- Place bombs on prepared sheet, brush with BBQ sauce, and bake 25–30 minutes until bacon is crispy.
- Remove toothpicks, brush with extra BBQ sauce if desired, garnish, and serve hot.
Notes
Can be prepped ahead and refrigerated; bake just before serving.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a crisp salad or roasted vegetables to balance richness.
- Serve on a platter for game days, parties, or casual gatherings.
- Ideal finger food for potlucks or BBQs.
Fun Fact
Bacon-wrapped stuffed foods have become a popular modern twist on classic comfort foods. These “bacon bombs” combine the nostalgia of stuffed meatballs with the irresistible flavor of bacon and cheese, making them a crowd favorite at parties.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Show-stopping appetizer: Perfect for parties or game days.
- Cheesy & Savory: Gooey cheddar melts inside each bomb.
- Easy to Make Ahead: Prep in advance and bake when needed.
- Kid-Friendly: Loved by adults and kids alike.
