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Cheddar-Stuffed BBQ Bacon Bombs

A game-changing appetizer perfect for your next gathering, these Cheddar-Stuffed BBQ Bacon Bombs feature a juicy beef center filled with molten cheddar and wrapped in crispy turkey bacon. The combination of savory beef, sharp cheese, and a generous brush of BBQ sauce creates an irresistible bite-sized treat that's ideal for game days and casual get-togethers.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 12 bombs
Course: Appetizer
Cuisine: American
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 ½ pounds ground beef 80/20 works best
  • 1 cup cheddar cheese shredded or cubed sharp cheddar
  • 1 egg large
  • ½ cup breadcrumbs plain or seasoned
  • 2 tablespoons milk
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 12 slices turkey bacon thin-cut; crisps better; can substitute regular bacon
  • ½ cup barbecue sauce plus extra for serving

Equipment

  • Large bowl
  • Baking sheet
  • Oven or air fryer/grill
  • Rack
  • Cutting board and knife
  • Toothpicks (optional)

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F. If using an air fryer or grill, adjust the temperature and cooking time accordingly.
  2. Prepare the cheese filling by cutting a block of sharp cheddar into 12 small cubes (about ½-inch each). If using shredded cheese, measure out approximately one tablespoon per bomb.
  3. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, large egg, breadcrumbs, milk, minced garlic, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix just until combined to avoid tough meatballs.
  4. Divide the beef mixture into 12 equal portions. Flatten each portion in your hand to form a small patty, then place one cheese cube (or a spoonful of shredded cheese) in the center and fold the meat around it, ensuring the cheese is fully enclosed.
  5. Wrap each cheese-stuffed meatball with a slice of turkey bacon. Stretch the bacon slightly as you wrap, tucking the ends underneath. Secure with toothpicks if needed, but remember to remove them before serving.
  6. Brush each bacon-wrapped bomb generously with barbecue sauce.
  7. Place the bombs on a rack set over a baking sheet to allow excess fat to drip away and cook for about 25 minutes until the bacon is crispy and the internal temperature reaches 160°F.
  8. Once cooked, let them rest for 5 minutes. Serve warm with extra BBQ sauce on the side for dipping.

Notes

These Cheddar-Stuffed BBQ Bacon Bombs offer a playful twist on classic appetizers. The juicy beef mixed with aromatic seasonings and a molten cheddar center creates a flavor explosion in every bite, while crispy turkey bacon adds a smoky crunch. They are highly customizable, allowing you to substitute meats or cheeses based on your preference. Ideal for game days, potlucks, or casual gatherings, these bombs are sure to become a crowd favorite.