Cheddar-Stuffed BBQ Bacon Bombs Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend recommended)

• 8 oz sharp cheddar cheese, cut into ½-inch cubes

• 8 slices thick-cut bacon

• ½ cup BBQ sauce (plus extra for serving)

• ¼ cup breadcrumbs

• 1 large egg

• 1 tsp garlic powder

• 1 tsp onion powder

• ½ tsp smoked paprika

• ½ tsp salt

• ¼ tsp black pepper

• Toothpicks (for securing bacon)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. Prepare the beef mixture:

   • In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined.

3. Form the bombs:

   • Divide the mixture into 8 equal portions (about ¼ cup each).

   • Flatten each portion into a patty, place a cube of cheddar in the center, and wrap the beef around the cheese, forming a tight ball.

4. Wrap with bacon:

   • Wrap each beef ball with one slice of bacon, securing the ends with toothpicks.

   • Brush each bomb generously with BBQ sauce.

5. Bake:

   • Place on prepared baking sheet and bake for 25-30 minutes, until bacon is crispy and beef is cooked through.

   • Brush with additional BBQ sauce halfway through cooking.

6. Serve:

   • Let rest for 5 minutes before serving with extra BBQ sauce for dipping.

Tip: For extra smoky flavor, cook on a grill over indirect heat instead of baking. These are perfect for game day or as an indulgent appetizer!