Cheddar-Stuffed BBQ Bacon Bombs

When the smoky scent of bacon hits the grill, you know something amazing is about to happen. These Cheddar-Stuffed BBQ Bacon Bombs are the kind of dish that turns any backyard gathering into a feast.

I first whipped up a batch on a lazy Sunday, craving something indulgent yet simple to make. The combination of smoky bacon, juicy beef, melty cheddar, and tangy BBQ sauce had everyone hooked from the first bite.

It’s easy to make them—just mix, wrap, grill, and enjoy. No fancy techniques, no complicated prep, just bold flavors coming together effortlessly. Whether it’s a game day snack, a summer cookout staple, or a comfort-food craving, these little flavor bombs always deliver.

The crispy bacon gives way to a cheesy, juicy center, making them impossible to resist. And let’s be honest, anything wrapped in bacon is already a winner!

Short Description

Cheddar-Stuffed BBQ Bacon Bombs combine juicy, seasoned beef, smoky bacon, and melted cheddar for a rich, flavorful bite. Perfect for grilling or baking, these bite-sized treats are an easy, crowd-pleasing appetizer or main dish.

Key Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1/2 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand or homemade)
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 12 slices bacon (thick-cut works best)

Tools Needed

• Large mixing bowl
• Grill or oven
• Baking sheet (if baking)
• Toothpicks
• Meat thermometer

Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Grill

Preheat your grill to 375°F (190°C). If using an oven, preheat to the same temperature and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 2: Prepare the Meat Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, BBQ sauce, shredded cheddar, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix until evenly combined but avoid overworking the meat to keep it tender.

Step 3: Shape the Bombs

Divide the mixture into 12 equal portions and roll each into a ball. Make sure they are evenly sized for even cooking.

Step 4: Wrap with Bacon

Wrap each beef ball with a slice of bacon, securing it with a toothpick. This keeps the bacon from unraveling while cooking.

Step 5: Grill the Bacon Bombs

Place the bacon-wrapped meatballs on the grill and cook for 15-20 minutes, turning occasionally.

The bacon should be golden and crispy, and the meat should reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Remove the toothpicks and serve warm. Enjoy the smoky, cheesy goodness straight from the grill!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Packed with flavor – The perfect balance of smoky, cheesy, and savory goodness.

Quick and easy – Requires minimal prep and simple ingredients.

Crowd-pleaser – Great for parties, BBQs, or game nights.

Versatile – Can be grilled, baked, or even cooked in an air fryer.

Mistakes to Avoid & Solutions

1. Bacon unraveling during cooking
Solution: Use toothpicks to secure the bacon properly, or slightly overlap the ends when wrapping.

2. Meatballs drying out
Solution: Don’t overwork the beef mixture. Keep an eye on cooking time and check the internal temperature.

3. Uneven cooking
Solution: Make sure all meatballs are the same size and turn them regularly on the grill.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

– A side of coleslaw for a refreshing crunch.
– Cornbread or garlic bread for a hearty meal.
– BBQ dipping sauce for extra flavor.
– Crispy fries or potato wedges for a satisfying side.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Reheating: Reheat in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes or air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 5 minutes. Avoid microwaving as it may make the bacon chewy.

FAQs

1. Can I bake these instead of grilling?
Yes! Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through for even cooking.

2. Can I make these ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prep and wrap them ahead, then store them in the fridge until ready to cook.

3. Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes! Pepper jack, mozzarella, or gouda work well for a flavorful twist.

4. How do I keep the cheese from leaking out?
Make sure to fully enclose the cheese within the beef before wrapping it with bacon.

5. Can I make these in an air fryer?
Yes! Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 15 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Tips & Tricks

– Use thick-cut bacon for a crispy, sturdy wrap.
– Brush with extra BBQ sauce in the last 5 minutes of cooking for a caramelized finish.
– Let the cooked bacon bombs rest for a few minutes before serving to allow juices to redistribute.

Recipe Variations

1. Spicy Jalapeño Bacon Bombs

Add finely diced jalapeños to the meat mixture for a spicy kick.

Use pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar.

2. Italian-Style Bacon Bombs

Swap BBQ sauce for marinara sauce.

Use mozzarella cheese instead of cheddar.

3. Keto-Friendly Bacon Bombs

Replace BBQ sauce with sugar-free BBQ sauce.

Serve with a low-carb dip like ranch or garlic aioli.

Final Thoughts

Cheddar-Stuffed BBQ Bacon Bombs prove that great flavor doesn’t have to be complicated. With just a few simple ingredients, you get a dish that’s smoky, cheesy, and packed with irresistible barbecue goodness. They’re perfect for any occasion, from casual cookouts to party appetizers that disappear within minutes.

You can easily tweak them with different cheeses or seasonings to make them your own. Fire up the grill, wrap up some bacon, and get ready for a meal that’s as fun to make as it is to eat!