Cheddar-Stuffed BBQ Bacon Bombs (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ For the Meatballs

01 - 1 pound ground beef (80/20 recommended for juiciness)
02 - ½ cup BBQ sauce (your favorite variety)
03 - ½ cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
04 - 1 teaspoon garlic powder
05 - 1 teaspoon onion powder
06 - ½ teaspoon salt
07 - ¼ teaspoon black pepper

→ For Wrapping

08 - 12 slices thick-cut bacon
09 - 12 toothpicks (soaked in water if grilling)

→ Optional Serving Suggestions

10 - Additional BBQ sauce for dipping
11 - Sliced green onions for garnish
12 - Pickled jalapeño slices

# Instructions:

01 - If using an oven, preheat to 375°F (190°C) and line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Place a wire rack on top if available. If grilling, preheat to medium heat (approximately 375°F) and oil the grates to prevent sticking.
02 - In a large bowl, combine ground beef, BBQ sauce, shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix gently with clean hands or a fork until just combined to avoid tough meatballs.
03 - Divide the meat mixture into 12 equal portions. Roll each portion into balls approximately 1½ inches in diameter. Dampen your hands with cold water if the mixture sticks.
04 - Take one slice of bacon and wrap it around a meatball, overlapping slightly to ensure complete coverage. Secure with a toothpick by threading it through the bacon and into the meatball. Repeat for all meatballs.
05 - Place bacon-wrapped meatballs on the grill over medium heat. Close the lid and cook for 15-20 minutes, turning occasionally with tongs for even cooking. Remove when the bacon is crispy and the internal temperature reads 160°F (71°C).
06 - Place prepared bacon bombs on a baking sheet or wire rack. Bake in preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, turning halfway through for even crisping. Remove when the bacon is crispy and the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
07 - Transfer bacon bombs to a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess grease. Let rest for 5 minutes to redistribute juices. Remove toothpicks before serving. Garnish with green onions and provide additional BBQ sauce if desired.

# Notes:

01 - For more flavor, try smoked cheddar cheese or add a dash of liquid smoke to the BBQ sauce.
02 - You can prepare these bacon bombs ahead of time and refrigerate until ready to cook.
03 - For a spicier version, add cayenne pepper to the meat or use hot BBQ sauce.
04 - For a sweeter profile, use honey BBQ sauce or add a tablespoon of brown sugar to the meat mixture.

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