The sizzling sound of crispy bacon meets seasoned ground beef in my kitchen, and I can already feel the excitement building! These Bacon Cheeseburger Meatballs bring together all the comforting flavors of a classic cheeseburger into a delightful, bite-sized treat perfect for any occasion. Not only are they incredibly easy to whip up on busy weeknights, but they’re also customizable to suit your taste. Whether you’re hosting game day or simply craving a fun dinner, these meatballs are sure to satisfy. With melty cheese hidden inside and an irresistible crunch outside, they’re a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that will elevate your home-cooked meals. Are you ready to transform your dinner routine and impress everyone at the table? Let’s dive into this flavorful adventure! Why Are These Meatballs a Game Changer? Comforting Flavor: Each bite bursts with the iconic taste of a cheeseburger, perfectly complemented by crispy bacon and gooey cheese hidden inside. Quick to Make: You’ll love how easy they are to prepare! In just under 30 minutes, these juicy meatballs will be ready to serve. Customizable Options: Whether you prefer spicy jalapeños or fresh herbs, you can make these meatballs your own with simple tweaks. Perfect for Any Occasion: These meatballs are ideal as appetizers for parties or a satisfying meal on a busy weeknight. Crowd-Pleaser: Their fun, bite-sized nature makes them a hit with both kids and adults alike, ensuring happy faces all around! For more delicious ideas, check out our Tomato Bacon Pasta for a quick dinner or our exciting Garlic Parmesan Cheeseburger recipe for a flavorful twist! Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Ingredients For the Meatballs • Ground Beef (1.5 lbs) – Use an 80/20 blend for the best flavor and moisture. • Ground Bacon (1/2 lb) – Adds smokiness; be sure to crumble about 8 crispy slices. • Panko Bread Crumbs (1 cup) – Acts as a perfect binding agent; gluten-free options work well! • Milk (1/2 cup) – Keeps the meatballs moist; try non-dairy milk for a lactose-free option. • Egg (1 large, beaten) – Binds all the ingredients together; for vegan, use flaxseed meal and water. • Yellow Onion (1/4 cup, diced) – Enhances flavor; shallots can be a great milder substitute. • Garlic (2 cloves, minced) – Infuses the mix with aromatic goodness; fresh garlic is recommended. • Worcestershire Sauce (2 tablespoons) – Brings umami depth; swap with soy sauce for a gluten-free option. • Dijon Mustard (1 tablespoon) – Adds a delightful tang; yellow mustard is a good alternative. • Smoked Paprika (1 teaspoon) – Gives a smoky flavor; sweet paprika can also work. • Garlic Powder (1/2 teaspoon), Onion Powder (1/4 teaspoon) – Enhance overall flavor; fresh spices provide the best punch. • Salt and Black Pepper – Essential seasoning; adjust according to your taste preference. • Sharp Cheddar Cheese (8 oz, cubed) – Melts beautifully; experiment with pepper jack for a spicy twist. For the Burger Sauce • Mayonnaise (1/2 cup) – Offers a creamy base for the sauce. • Ketchup (2 tablespoons) – Adds a touch of sweetness and tang. • Yellow Mustard (1 tablespoon) – Provides a classic mustard flavor; swap with Dijon if desired. • Sweet Pickle Relish (1 tablespoon) – Perfect for that sweet crunch; diced pickles can also work! • White Vinegar (1 teaspoon) – Enhances the sauce’s tanginess; apple cider vinegar is a tasty alternative. • Garlic Powder (1/2 teaspoon), Paprika (1/4 teaspoon) – Complements flavors; adjust to your taste. For Serving • Sesame Seed Buns – Perfect for a classic burger experience; lettuce wraps can make a great low-carb option. • Lettuce, Tomato, Red Onion, Pickles – Fresh toppings to enhance flavor and presentation; use seasonal veggies for a twist. These Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Ingredients come together to create a heartwarming dish that will leave everyone craving more! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Bacon Cheeseburger Meatballs Step 1: Prepare Bacon Begin by cooking the strips of bacon in a skillet over medium heat until they are crispy, about 8 to 10 minutes. Use a slotted spoon to remove the bacon from the skillet and place it on paper towels to drain excess grease. Once cooled, crumble the bacon into small pieces and set it aside while you gather the other ingredients for the Bacon Cheeseburger Meatballs. Step 2: Mix Meatball Ingredients In a large mixing bowl, combine 1.5 pounds of ground beef, the crumbled bacon, 1 cup of panko bread crumbs, and ½ cup of milk. Use your hands or a spoon to mix these ingredients thoroughly, ensuring everything is well incorporated. The mixture should feel slightly sticky, which will help the meatballs maintain their shape. Set this mixture aside while you prepare the wet ingredients. Step 3: Prepare Wet Ingredients In a separate bowl, whisk together 1 beaten egg, ¼ cup of diced yellow onion, 2 minced garlic cloves, 2 tablespoons of Worcestershire sauce, 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard, 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika, ½ teaspoon of garlic powder, and ¼ teaspoon of onion powder. This wet mixture will add moisture and flavor to your Bacon Cheeseburger Meatballs, helping to create that mouthwatering taste everyone loves. Step 4: Combine Mixtures Pour the whisked wet ingredients into the bowl containing the meat mixture. Season with salt and black pepper to taste, and gently mix the ingredients until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tough meatballs. Your mixture should be wet but still hold together well when formed into balls. Step 5: Stuff with Cheese To create the cheesy surprise, take a handful of the meat mixture and flatten it in your palm. Place a cube of sharp cheddar cheese in the center, then carefully fold the meat around the cheese and shape it into a smooth ball. Repeat this process, ensuring that each meatball encases the cheese perfectly. Aim for about 12 meatballs for optimum flavor and presentation. Step 6: Cooking Options For baking, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 20 to 25 minutes until they reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C). For pan-frying, heat a bit of oil in a skillet over medium-high heat, add the meatballs, and cook for about 8 to 10 minutes until they’re browned. Cover the skillet and cook for an additional 5 to 7 minutes to ensure they’re cooked through. Step 7: Make Burger Sauce While the meatballs are cooking, prepare the delicious burger sauce that will accompany your Bacon Cheeseburger Meatballs. In a bowl, blend together ½ cup of mayonnaise, 2 tablespoons of ketchup, 1 tablespoon of yellow mustard, 1 tablespoon of sweet pickle relish, and 1 teaspoon of white vinegar. Mix in ½ teaspoon of garlic powder and ¼ teaspoon of paprika until smooth, and then refrigerate to let the flavors meld while the meatballs finish cooking. Step 8: Assemble Once the meatballs are cooked to perfection and the cheese is melty, it’s time to assemble! Place the warm meatballs on toasted sesame seed buns, or serve them alongside a fresh salad for a lighter option. Top with lettuce, sliced tomato, red onion, and pickles for a colorful presentation that adds freshness and flavor. Drizzle with the prepared burger sauce for that classic taste packed into every bite. What to Serve with Bacon Cheeseburger Meatballs? Elevate your dining experience with delightful accompaniments that complement the rich flavors of your bacon cheeseburger meatballs. Crispy French Fries: These golden fries add a satisfying crunch while perfectly soaking up any drippings from the meatballs. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy, buttery mashed potatoes provide a smooth, comforting base that balances the hearty meatballs. Fresh Garden Salad: A mix of crisp greens and tangy vinaigrette brightens up the meal and adds a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors. Sweet Potato Wedges: Roasted sweet potato wedges offer a sweet and savory profile, which pairs beautifully with the smoky bacon. Coleslaw: This crunchy, tangy slaw introduces a delightful texture and brightness that cuts through the meatiness of the meatballs. Baked Beans: The sweet and smoky flavor of baked beans brings an added depth that echoes the barbecue essence of the meatballs. Pickle Chips: Serve crunchy pickles on the side for an extra zing; their acidity enhances the meatball flavors without overwhelming them. Craft Beer: A cold, hoppy craft beer provides a refreshing complement, enhancing the savory notes of the meatballs. Chocolate Chip Cookies: For dessert, warm, gooey cookies are the perfect sweet ending to round out your meal with a comforting finish. Milkshakes: Creamy milkshakes provide a fun and nostalgic touch, making your meal feel more like a classic diner experience. Expert Tips for Bacon Cheeseburger Meatballs Crispy Bacon: Ensure your bacon is cooked until crispy before crumbling; this adds flavor and prevents sogginess in the meatball mixture. Gentle Mixing: Avoid overmixing the meat mixture; this keeps the meatballs tender and prevents them from becoming tough. Check Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature of the meatballs reaches 160°F (71°C) for perfect doneness. Make Ahead: Prepare the meatballs ahead of time; they can be refrigerated for up to 24 hours before cooking, making them perfect for busy schedules. Cheese Variations: Experiment with different cheeses; pepper jack adds a delightful kick, while mozzarella offers a milder, creamy twist to your bacon cheeseburger meatballs. Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Variations Feel free to let your culinary creativity shine while making these bacon cheeseburger meatballs—there’s a world of delightful twists awaiting! Cheese Options: Experiment with mozzarella or pepper jack for different flavor surprises. Envision savory gooeyness melting in your mouth! Add Veggies: Sneak in diced bell peppers or grated carrots for extra nutrition and a pop of color. This adds great texture and health benefits while still keeping the meatball delicious! Spice It Up: Mix in red pepper flakes or jalapeños for a fiery kick. This simple swap can take your meatballs from mild to wild, bringing delightful heat to every bite. Fresh Herbs: Incorporate fresh herbs like parsley or chives for a burst of freshness. Herbs can brighten the overall flavor profile and make the dish even more vibrant. Gluten-Free: Swap panko bread crumbs for gluten-free alternatives like crushed gluten-free crackers or oats. This allows everyone to enjoy these fantastic meatballs without dietary concerns. Turkey or Chicken: Try using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a leaner option. It will still retain all the delicious flavors, making for a healthier take on a classic dish. Bacon Swaps: Use turkey bacon or vegan bacon for a lighter or plant-based version. The flavors may slightly differ, but you can still create that delicious bacon essence everyone loves. For more mouthwatering ideas that capture that comforting essence, hop over to our easy Tomato Bacon Pasta for a quick family dinner, or enjoy our enticing Garlic Parmesan Cheeseburger for another unique twist! How to Store and Freeze Bacon Cheeseburger Meatballs Fridge: Store cooked bacon cheeseburger meatballs in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave until warmed through. Freezer: Freeze uncooked meatballs in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Cook from frozen; just add a few extra minutes to baking time. Reheating: Thaw frozen meatballs in the fridge overnight before reheating. For best results, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. Airtight Storage: Ensure that stored meatballs are wrapped tightly in foil or placed in airtight containers to preserve their flavor and moisture. Make Ahead Options These Bacon Cheeseburger Meatballs are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can mix the meatball ingredients and form the meatballs up to 24 hours in advance, allowing you to chill them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook. To ensure they maintain their texture and flavor, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or store them in an airtight container. When you’re ready to serve, simply bake or pan-fry the meatballs as directed, cooking them until they reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C). This will save you precious time during busy weeknights and still deliver delicious, homemade meatballs that your family will love! Bacon Cheeseburger Meatballs Recipe FAQs How do I select the best ground beef for my meatballs? Absolutely! When selecting ground beef for your bacon cheeseburger meatballs, choose an 80/20 blend (80% lean, 20% fat) for the best flavor and moisture. The fat helps keep the meatballs tender and juicy, while still providing that satisfying bite. What is the best way to store leftover meatballs? Very! Store cooked bacon cheeseburger meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Make sure they’re fully cooled before sealing the container to avoid condensation, which can affect their texture. Can I freeze uncooked meatballs? If so, how? Of course! To freeze uncooked meatballs, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, ensuring they don’t touch, and freeze until solid (about 1-2 hours). Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container and label them. They can be kept for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to cook them, bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to your cooking time. What should I do if my meatballs are falling apart? Don’t worry; it happens to the best of us! If your meatballs are crumbling, consider adding a little more binding agent, such as panko breadcrumbs, or another egg to help hold them together. Be sure also to mix gently—overmixing can make them tough and lead to separation. If they are still too crumbly, try chilling the mixture for 30 minutes before forming them into balls; this helps the fats solidify and keeps them intact. Are there any dietary considerations for bacon cheeseburger meatballs? Certainly! If you have dietary restrictions, feel free to substitute the beef with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. For those avoiding gluten, use gluten-free panko breadcrumbs, and ensure your Worcestershire sauce and other condiments are gluten-free as well. Also, for lactose-free versions, swap the milk for a non-dairy alternative and use vegan cheese inside the meatballs. Can pets enjoy bacon cheeseburger meatballs? Very! However, it’s wise to keep them as a special treat. While plain meat without additives is generally safe for dogs, avoid giving them bacon or any seasoning such as garlic and onion, which can be harmful. Always check with your veterinarian if you’re uncertain about any ingredients! Bacon Cheeseburger Meatballs: Juicy Bites of Comfort Bliss Delicious Bacon Cheeseburger Meatballs combine the flavors of a cheeseburger with crispy bacon in a bite-sized treat. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 25 minutes minsTotal Time 40 minutes mins Servings: 12 meatballsCourse: DinnerCuisine: AmericanCalories: 250 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Meatballs1.5 lbs Ground Beef Use an 80/20 blend for the best flavor and moisture.0.5 lbs Ground Bacon Adds smokiness; crumble about 8 crispy slices.1 cup Panko Bread Crumbs Acts as a perfect binding agent; gluten-free options work well!0.5 cup Milk Keeps the meatballs moist; try non-dairy milk for a lactose-free option.1 large Egg Beaten; for vegan, use flaxseed meal and water.0.25 cup Yellow Onion Diced; shallots can be a great milder substitute.2 cloves Garlic Minced; fresh garlic is recommended.2 tablespoons Worcestershire Sauce Brings umami depth; swap with soy sauce for a gluten-free option.1 tablespoon Dijon Mustard Adds a delightful tang; yellow mustard is a good alternative.1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika Gives a smoky flavor; sweet paprika can also work.0.5 teaspoon Garlic Powder Enhances overall flavor; fresh spices provide the best punch.0.25 teaspoon Onion Powder Enhances overall flavor; fresh spices provide the best punch.Salt and Black Pepper Essential seasoning; adjust according to your taste preference.8 oz Sharp Cheddar Cheese Cubed; experiment with pepper jack for a spicy twist.For the Burger Sauce0.5 cup Mayonnaise Offers a creamy base for the sauce.2 tablespoons Ketchup Adds a touch of sweetness and tang.1 tablespoon Yellow Mustard Provides a classic mustard flavor; swap with Dijon if desired.1 tablespoon Sweet Pickle Relish Perfect for that sweet crunch; diced pickles can also work!1 teaspoon White Vinegar Enhances the sauce’s tanginess; apple cider vinegar is a tasty alternative.0.5 teaspoon Garlic Powder Complements flavors; adjust to your taste.0.25 teaspoon Paprika Complements flavors; adjust to your taste.For ServingSesame Seed Buns Perfect for a classic burger experience; lettuce wraps can make a great low-carb option.Lettuce Fresh toppings to enhance flavor and presentation.Tomato Fresh toppings to enhance flavor and presentation.Red Onion Fresh toppings to enhance flavor and presentation.Pickles Fresh toppings to enhance flavor and presentation. Equipment skilletmixing bowlBaking sheet Method Step-by-Step Instructions for Bacon Cheeseburger MeatballsBegin by cooking the strips of bacon in a skillet over medium heat until they are crispy, about 8 to 10 minutes. Use a slotted spoon to remove the bacon from the skillet and place it on paper towels to drain excess grease. Once cooled, crumble the bacon into small pieces and set it aside while you gather the other ingredients for the Bacon Cheeseburger Meatballs.In a large mixing bowl, combine 1.5 pounds of ground beef, the crumbled bacon, 1 cup of panko bread crumbs, and ½ cup of milk. Use your hands or a spoon to mix these ingredients thoroughly, ensuring everything is well incorporated.In a separate bowl, whisk together 1 beaten egg, ¼ cup of diced yellow onion, 2 minced garlic cloves, 2 tablespoons of Worcestershire sauce, 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard, 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika, ½ teaspoon of garlic powder, and ¼ teaspoon of onion powder.Pour the whisked wet ingredients into the bowl containing the meat mixture. Season with salt and black pepper to taste, and gently mix the ingredients until just combined.To create the cheesy surprise, take a handful of the meat mixture and flatten it in your palm. Place a cube of sharp cheddar cheese in the center, then carefully fold the meat around the cheese and shape it into a smooth ball. Aim for about 12 meatballs for optimum flavor and presentation.For baking, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 20 to 25 minutes until they reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).While the meatballs are cooking, prepare the delicious burger sauce by blending together ½ cup of mayonnaise, 2 tablespoons of ketchup, 1 tablespoon of yellow mustard, 1 tablespoon of sweet pickle relish, and 1 teaspoon of white vinegar.Once the meatballs are cooked and the cheese is melty, place the warm meatballs on toasted sesame seed buns. Top with lettuce, sliced tomato, red onion, and pickles for a colorful presentation. Drizzle with the prepared burger sauce. Nutrition Serving: 1meatballCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 12gProtein: 14gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 7gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 65mgSodium: 500mgPotassium: 200mgFiber: 1gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 5IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 5mgIron: 10mg NotesThese Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Ingredients come together to create a heartwarming dish that will leave everyone craving more! Prepare ahead of time for convenience. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
