Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Bites (Print-Friendly Recipe)
Juicy bacon cheeseburger meatballs packed with cheddar and a zesty dipping sauce for satisfying bites.
# Ingredients List:
→ Meat Mixture
01 -
5 pounds ground beef, 80/20 blend for optimal flavor
02 -
0.5 pound ground bacon, cooked and crumbled (about 8 slices)
03 -
1 cup panko bread crumbs
04 -
0.5 cup whole milk
05 -
1 large egg, lightly beaten
06 -
0.25 cup yellow onion, finely diced
07 -
2 cloves garlic, minced
08 -
2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
09 -
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
10 -
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
11 -
0.5 teaspoon garlic powder
12 -
0.25 teaspoon onion powder
13 -
Salt and black pepper, to taste
14 -
8 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, cut into 0.5-inch cubes
→ Burger Sauce
15 -
0.5 cup mayonnaise
16 -
2 tablespoons ketchup
17 -
1 tablespoon yellow mustard
18 -
1 tablespoon sweet pickle relish
19 -
1 teaspoon white vinegar
20 -
0.5 teaspoon garlic powder
21 -
0.25 teaspoon paprika
22 -
Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional)
# How to Make It:
01 -
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon until fully crisp. Remove to a paper towel-lined plate, cool slightly, then crumble into small pieces. Set aside.
02 -
In a medium bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, ketchup, yellow mustard, sweet pickle relish, white vinegar, garlic powder, and paprika. For extra heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper. Mix until fully combined and smooth. Cover and refrigerate until serving.
03 -
In a large bowl, combine ground beef, crumbled bacon, panko bread crumbs, milk, beaten egg, diced onion, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix gently by hand until ingredients are well incorporated. Avoid overmixing.
04 -
Take a tablespoon of the meat mixture and flatten slightly in your palm. Place one cube of cheddar cheese in the center, then wrap the meat around the cheese, forming a sealed ball. Repeat with remaining mixture and cheese.
05 -
Arrange meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Preheat oven to 400°F (204°C). Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until meatballs are browned and fully cooked through, and cheese is melted in the center.
06 -
Present meatballs with burger sauce for dipping. For classic presentation, serve on toasted sesame seed buns with lettuce, tomato, red onion, pickle chips, and sauce. Alternatively, offer as appetizers or add to salads, mashed potatoes, or enjoy as snacks.
# Extra Information:
01 -
For best results, avoid overworking the meat mixture to retain tenderness.
02 -
Chill the burger sauce to enhance its flavor and consistency before serving.