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Bourbon BBQ Bacon Meatballs Recipe

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4.8 from 77 reviews

These Sizzling Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatballs combine juicy ground beef with smoky bacon, sharp cheddar, and a kick of bourbon-infused BBQ sauce. Perfectly baked to juicy perfection and glazed with extra BBQ sauce for a flavorful, crowd-pleasing appetizer or main dish.

Ingredients

Meatball Mixture

  • 1 lb ground beef (lean)
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (panko or gluten-free)
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup BBQ sauce, plus extra for glazing
  • 2 tablespoon bourbon
  • 1 large egg
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 4 slices cooked bacon, crumbled

Garnish

  • Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F to ensure it reaches the right temperature for baking the meatballs to juicy perfection.
  2. Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, chopped onion, minced garlic, BBQ sauce, bourbon, egg, salt, and pepper. Gently mix until just combined to avoid overworking the meat.
  3. Add Cheese & Bacon: Fold in the crumbled cooked bacon and shredded cheddar cheese evenly throughout the meat mixture to infuse flavor in every bite.
  4. Form Meatballs: Slightly wet your hands to prevent sticking, then shape the mixture into 1.5-inch meatballs for uniform cooking.
  5. Bake the Meatballs: Place the meatballs on a parchment-lined baking sheet spaced evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F, ensuring they are fully cooked and juicy.
  6. Glaze with BBQ Sauce: In the last few minutes of baking, brush the meatballs generously with additional BBQ sauce to create a sticky, caramelized glaze for extra flavor.
  7. Serve and Garnish: Remove from the oven, garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve hot as a delicious appetizer or main course.

Notes

  • Use lean ground beef to prevent excess grease while keeping the meatballs juicy.
  • For gluten-free option, use gluten-free breadcrumbs.
  • The bourbon adds a smoky depth but can be omitted for a non-alcoholic version.
  • Check internal temperature with a meat thermometer to ensure safety.
  • Leftover meatballs keep well refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheat nicely in the oven or microwave.

Find it online: https://mealsbykate.com/bourbon-bbq-bacon-meatballs-recipe/