Oh my goodness, let me tell you about these bourbon BBQ bacon cheeseburger meatballs! They’re like a flavor explosion in every bite. Imagine perfectly seasoned, savory meatballs that are glazed with a sweet and smoky bourbon BBQ sauce, then topped with crispy bacon and melty cheddar cheese. It’s the kind of dish that makes your taste buds do a happy dance! I love making these for gatherings or just a cozy night in because they’re so satisfying and easy to whip up. Plus, the aroma that fills your kitchen while they’re baking is absolutely irresistible! Trust me, once you try these meatballs, they’ll become a go-to recipe in your home. You won’t want to miss out on this delicious twist to a classic comfort food!

Ingredients List

1 lb ground beef (I prefer using 80/20 for the perfect balance of flavor and juiciness)
1/2 cup packed breadcrumbs (this helps bind everything together nicely)
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (adds a delightful savoriness)
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (for a pop of color and freshness)
1/4 cup diced onion (I like to use yellow onion for its sweetness)
2 cloves garlic, minced (because garlic makes everything better, right?)
1 egg (acts as a binder to keep those meatballs together)
1 tsp salt (don’t skip this—it really brings out the flavors)
1/2 tsp black pepper (just a hint of spice)
1/2 cup cooked and crumbled bacon (crispy bacon is a must for that smoky goodness)
1/2 cup bourbon BBQ sauce (my secret ingredient for that sweet and tangy glaze)
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (for that melty, gooey topping that makes you go wow!)

How to Prepare Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatballs

First things first, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This is super important, so don’t skip it! A hot oven is key to getting those meatballs just right.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, chopped parsley, diced onion, minced garlic, egg, salt, and black pepper. I like to get in there with my hands to make sure everything is mixed evenly—it’s a bit messy, but totally worth it!
Now, gently fold in the crumbled bacon. Oh, that crispy goodness is going to add so much flavor. Make sure it’s well distributed throughout the mixture.
Next, grab a small handful of the meat mixture and form it into meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter. Don’t worry if they’re not perfect; the love you put into making them will shine through!
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and place the meatballs on it, giving them a little space to breathe. This helps them cook evenly.
Pop those beauties in the preheated oven and bake for 20 minutes. You’ll want to keep an eye on them as they start to brown and smell amazing!
Once the timer goes off, carefully remove the meatballs from the oven. Brush them generously with bourbon BBQ sauce—this is where the magic happens!
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top of each meatball, then return them to the oven for an additional 5 minutes. This will melt the cheese to gooey perfection.
When they’re done, let them cool for a minute before serving. Trust me, you won’t want to burn your tongue on these little flavor bombs!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and easy to prepare—perfect for weeknight dinners or last-minute gatherings!
Savory flavor with a bourbon BBQ twist that will leave everyone asking for seconds.
Crispy bacon adds the perfect texture and smoky goodness that elevates these meatballs.
They’re perfect for appetizers or snacks, making them a hit at parties and game days.
Gluten-free option available—simply swap in gluten-free breadcrumbs!

Tips for Success

To make sure your bourbon BBQ bacon cheeseburger meatballs turn out absolutely perfect, I’ve got a few tried-and-true tips for you!

Use lean ground beef: I recommend going for 90/10 ground beef if you want a slightly healthier option without sacrificing flavor. It keeps the meatballs juicy while reducing the fat content.
Adjust the BBQ sauce: Everyone has different tastes, so feel free to tweak the amount of bourbon BBQ sauce to suit your preference. If you like it sweeter, add a bit more; if you prefer it tangier, go easy on it!
Don’t overmix: When combining the ingredients, mix just until everything is evenly incorporated. Overmixing can lead to tough meatballs, and we definitely want them to be tender and delicious!
Let them rest: After baking, give the meatballs a minute or two to cool before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together and makes them easier to handle.
Experiment with herbs: If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding different herbs like thyme or oregano to the meat mixture for an extra flavor punch!

With these tips, you’ll be well on your way to making the best meatballs ever. Enjoy the process, and happy cooking!

Nutritional Information

When it comes to these bourbon BBQ bacon cheeseburger meatballs, you’ll be pleased to know they’re not just delicious but also fairly balanced! Here’s a quick breakdown of the estimated nutritional values per serving (which is about 4 meatballs):

Calories: 350
Fat: 24g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Unsaturated Fat: 12g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 70mg
Sodium: 600mg
Carbohydrates: 10g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 5g
Protein: 20g

Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients you use. If you make any substitutions or adjustments, it might change the nutritional content a bit. But overall, you’re in for a hearty, satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion!

FAQ Section

Can I use turkey instead of beef?
Absolutely! If you’re looking for a lighter option, ground turkey works wonderfully in this recipe. Just keep in mind that turkey can be a bit drier, so you might want to add a touch more BBQ sauce or a bit of olive oil to keep those meatballs moist and flavorful.

How do I store leftovers?
To store any leftover bourbon BBQ bacon cheeseburger meatballs, simply place them in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll stay fresh for about 3-4 days. Just reheat in the oven or microwave before enjoying them again!

What dipping sauce goes well with these meatballs?
Oh, there are so many delicious options! I love serving them with extra bourbon BBQ sauce for dipping, but ranch dressing or a creamy garlic sauce also pairs beautifully. For a little kick, try a spicy mayo or sriracha sauce!

Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?
Definitely! You can prepare the meatballs and freeze them before baking. Just arrange them on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. When you’re ready to cook, bake them straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

What can I serve alongside these meatballs?
These meatballs are perfect by themselves, but if you want to make a meal out of them, serve them with a side of crispy fries or a fresh salad. They also make a fantastic slider on a bun with a bit of coleslaw!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Storing your leftover bourbon BBQ bacon cheeseburger meatballs is super easy! Just let them cool completely, then transfer them to an airtight container. They’ll stay fresh in the fridge for about 3-4 days. If you want to keep them for longer, you can freeze them! To do this, lay the meatballs in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, pop them into a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll last in the freezer for up to 3 months.

When you’re ready to enjoy your meatballs again, you can reheat them straight from the fridge or freezer. If they’re frozen, just bake them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 25-30 minutes, or until heated through. For fridge-stored meatballs, popping them in the microwave for a minute or two works great too. Just be careful not to overheat them, or you might end up with a rubbery texture. Enjoy every bite!

Serving Suggestions

Now that you’ve got these mouthwatering bourbon BBQ bacon cheeseburger meatballs ready to go, let’s talk about how to make the meal even more exciting! These little flavor bombs are fantastic on their own, but pairing them with the right sides and dips can elevate your dining experience to a whole new level.

Dipping Sauces: You can’t go wrong with extra bourbon BBQ sauce for a sweet and smoky dip! If you’re feeling adventurous, try a spicy mayo or zesty ranch dressing. These creamy options complement the savory meatballs perfectly.
Fresh Salad: A crisp side salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette can balance the richness of the meatballs. It adds a refreshing crunch that’s simply delightful!
Crispy Fries: If you’re in the mood for something indulgent, serve your meatballs with a side of crispy fries or sweet potato fries. The crunch and warmth of the fries make for a comforting combo.
Sliders: For a fun twist, turn these meatballs into sliders! Place them on small buns with a bit of coleslaw for some added crunch, and they’ll be the hit of any gathering.
Mac and Cheese: If you want to go all out, pair your meatballs with a side of creamy mac and cheese. The cheesy goodness complements the savory flavors of the meatballs beautifully.

With these serving suggestions, you can create a delicious spread that’ll impress family and friends alike. Enjoy every flavorful bite and happy cooking!

Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatballs: 7 Flavor Bombs

Author: Juanita A. Smith
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Gluten Free

Print Recipe

Description

Savory meatballs with a bourbon BBQ glaze and crispy bacon.

Ingredients

Scale

1 lb ground beef
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
1/4 cup diced onion
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 egg
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/2 cup cooked and crumbled bacon
1/2 cup bourbon BBQ sauce
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, parsley, onion, garlic, egg, salt, and pepper.
Mix in crumbled bacon.
Form the mixture into meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.
Place meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Bake for 20 minutes.
Remove from oven and brush with bourbon BBQ sauce.
Sprinkle shredded cheddar on top.
Return to oven and bake for an additional 5 minutes, until cheese melts.

Notes

Adjust BBQ sauce to taste.
Use lean ground beef for a healthier option.
Can substitute turkey for a lighter meatball.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Appetizer
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 4 meatballs
Calories: 350
Sugar: 5g
Sodium: 600mg
Fat: 24g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Unsaturated Fat: 12g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 10g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 20g
Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: bourbon bbq bacon cheeseburger meatballs