Get ready to indulge in a flavor explosion with these Cheddar Bacon Stuffed Meatballs! Perfect for parties, game days, or a cozy family dinner, these meatballs are not just your average appetizer. Each bite reveals a gooey, melted cheddar center, complemented by the savory crunch of crispy bacon. Whether served alone or with a side of marinara sauce, these meatballs are sure to impress your guests and satisfy your cravings.

What Makes It Special

What sets these Cheddar Bacon Stuffed Meatballs apart is the delightful combination of flavors and textures. The rich, savory ground beef is perfectly seasoned and encases a luscious cube of cheddar cheese, which melts beautifully during baking. The addition of crispy bacon adds a smoky crunch that elevates the dish to a whole new level. It’s a mouthwatering treat that combines comfort food with gourmet flair!

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 egg
• 2 tablespoons milk
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 6 cubes of cheddar cheese (about ½-inch each)
• 6 strips crispy bacon, crumbled

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined; be careful not to overmix.
3. Take a small handful of the meat mixture and flatten it in your palm. Place a cube of cheddar cheese in the center and fold the meat around it, forming a ball. Ensure the cheese is completely encased in the meat. Repeat this process with the remaining meat mixture and cheese cubes.
4. Arrange the meatballs on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are spaced apart for even cooking.
5. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through and reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
6. Remove the meatballs from the oven and immediately sprinkle the crumbled bacon over the top. Serve warm as appetizers or with marinara sauce for dipping.

Nutritional Information

• Serving Size: 1 meatball (approx. 1.5 oz)
• Calories: 150
• Total Fat: 10g
  • Saturated Fat: 4g
• Cholesterol: 40mg
• Sodium: 250mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 5g
  • Dietary Fiber: 0g
  • Sugars: 0g
• Protein: 12g

Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.

Cooking Tips

• For extra flavor, consider adding chopped fresh herbs like parsley or basil to the meat mixture.
• If you prefer a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the meat mixture.
• Make sure the cheese is well-sealed within the meatball to prevent it from leaking out during baking.
• These meatballs can be made ahead of time and frozen. Just bake them straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Conclusion

We hope you enjoy making and devouring these Cheddar Bacon Stuffed Meatballs as much as we do! They are sure to become a favorite in your household. If you try this recipe, please let us know how it turned out in the comments below. Don’t forget to follow us for more delicious recipes and cooking tips!