Print

Bourbon BBQ Bacon Meatballs Recipe

Print Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.7 from 110 reviews

These Sizzling Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatballs combine the smoky richness of bourbon and BBQ sauce with savory cheddar cheese and crispy bacon. Baked to perfection and glazed with extra BBQ sauce, they deliver a juicy, flavorful bite perfect for any occasion or game day treat.

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
  • 2 tablespoon bourbon
  • 1 large egg
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Fillings and Toppings

  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 4 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
  • Extra BBQ sauce for glazing
  • Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F to prepare for baking the meatballs evenly and to a safe internal temperature.
  2. Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, chopped onion, minced garlic, BBQ sauce, bourbon, egg, salt, and pepper. Gently mix until just combined to maintain tenderness.
  3. Add Bacon and Cheese: Fold in the crumbled cooked bacon and shredded cheddar cheese carefully to distribute without overmixing the meat.
  4. Shape Meatballs: Slightly wet your hands to prevent sticking and form the mixture into 1.5-inch meatballs, ensuring uniform size for even cooking.
  5. Bake Meatballs: Place the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, until they reach an internal temperature of 160°F, indicating they are fully cooked and juicy.
  6. Glaze Meatballs: In the last few minutes of baking, brush the meatballs with extra BBQ sauce to create a flavorful glaze and allow it to set in the oven.
  7. Serve and Garnish: Remove from oven, optionally garnish with fresh parsley, and serve hot to enjoy the full sizzling bourbon BBQ bacon cheeseburger flavor.

Notes

  • Use lean ground beef to avoid excessive grease while keeping the meat moist.
  • For a gluten-free version, substitute regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs.
  • Adjust the amount of bourbon for a milder or stronger flavor according to preference.
  • Make sure not to overmix the meatball mixture to keep them tender.
  • Internal temperature of 160°F ensures safe consumption of ground beef.
  • These meatballs can be paired with a side salad or served as a party appetizer with toothpicks.

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