Smoky BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatballs

Ingredients:

1 lb ground beef
½ lb bacon, cooked and crumbled
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
¼ cup breadcrumbs
¼ cup milk
1 large egg
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 tablespoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
For the BBQ Glaze:

½ cup BBQ sauce
2 tablespoons honey

Instructions:

Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

Prepare the Meatball Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, crumbled bacon, shredded cheddar cheese, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix gently until just combined to avoid overmixing, which can make the meatballs tough.

Form the Meatballs: Roll the mixture into meatballs approximately 1 to 1½ inches in diameter. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring there’s space between each for even cooking.

Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the meatballs are fully cooked and golden brown. The internal temperature should reach 160°F (71°C).

Prepare the BBQ Glaze: While the meatballs are baking, mix the BBQ sauce and honey in a small bowl until well combined.

Glaze the Meatballs: Once the meatballs are done, remove them from the oven and brush each with the BBQ honey glaze.

Serve: Serve the meatballs hot, with extra BBQ sauce on the side for dipping if desired.

Notes:

Bacon: Ensure the bacon is cooked until crispy before crumbling to maintain texture within the meatballs.

Cheese Variations: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for a twist.

Serving Suggestions: These meatballs make a great appetizer or main course. Pair them with mashed potatoes, a fresh salad, or serve them on slider buns for a fun party treat.