Bacon Cheeseburger Bombs

If you’re a fan of bacon cheeseburgers, you’re in for a treat with these Bacon Cheeseburger Bombs. Imagine all the deliciousness of a classic cheeseburger, but in a bite-sized, bacon-wrapped package that’s perfect for parties, family gatherings, or even a fun weeknight dinner. These bombs are packed with juicy ground beef, gooey cheddar cheese, and crispy bacon, creating a flavor explosion with every bite. Plus, they’re served with a tangy, homemade dipping sauce that perfectly complements the savory goodness.

Ingredients to Prepare

This recipe yields 12 servings. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Bombs:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 8 ounces cheddar cheese, cut into cubes
• 12 slices of bacon
• Toothpicks (for securing bacon)

For the Dipping Sauce:

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons ketchup
• 2 tablespoons sweet pickle relish
• 1 teaspoon white vinegar
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon paprika

How to Make Bacon Cheeseburger Bombs

Prepare the Ground Beef:

1.1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Mix until well combined. This seasoning mixture infuses the beef with classic burger flavors, ensuring that each bite is packed with taste.

Form the Cheeseburger Bombs:

2.1. Divide the seasoned ground beef into 12 equal portions.

2.2. Flatten each portion into a small patty. This step is crucial as it creates the base for your bombs.

2.3. Place a cube of cheddar cheese in the center of each patty. The cheese will melt as the bombs cook, creating a deliciously gooey center.

2.4. Carefully wrap the beef around the cheese, forming a ball. Make sure the cheese is completely enclosed in the beef to prevent it from leaking out during cooking.

Wrap with Bacon:

3.1. Wrap each beef ball with a slice of bacon, ensuring the bacon covers the entire surface. This step not only adds flavor but also helps keep the beef ball together.

3.2. Secure the bacon in place with toothpicks to prevent it from unraveling as it cooks.

Cook the Bacon Cheeseburger Bombs:

4.1. Oven Method: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the bacon-wrapped cheeseburger bombs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a wire rack. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the beef is cooked through.

4.2. Grill Method: Preheat your grill to medium heat. Grill the bacon-wrapped cheeseburger bombs for 15-20 minutes, turning occasionally, until the bacon is crispy and the beef is cooked through.

Prepare the Dipping Sauce:

5.1. While the bombs are cooking, prepare the dipping sauce. In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, ketchup, sweet pickle relish, white vinegar, sugar, salt, and paprika until well combined. This sauce adds a tangy, slightly sweet flavor that pairs perfectly with the rich cheeseburger bombs.

Serve:

6.1. Once the bacon cheeseburger bombs are cooked, remove the toothpicks before serving. Serve them hot with the prepared dipping sauce on the side.

Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cooking Time: 25 minutes | Total Time: 45 minutes | Calories: Approximately 350 kcal per bomb (including sauce) | Servings: 12 bombs

Helpful Tips

• Cheese Variations: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese for the center of your bombs. Pepper jack adds a spicy kick, while mozzarella provides a mild, creamy texture.
• Bacon Crispiness: If you like your bacon extra crispy, you can briefly broil the bombs for 2-3 minutes after baking. Just keep a close eye on them to prevent burning.
• Even Cooking: Ensure the beef balls are evenly sized to promote even cooking. Using a kitchen scale can help with this.

Cooking Tips

• Baking vs. Grilling: Both methods yield delicious results, but grilling adds a smoky flavor that pairs wonderfully with the bacon and beef. If using the oven, a wire rack helps the bacon crisp up evenly.
• Toothpicks: Use wooden toothpicks instead of plastic to avoid melting during cooking. Remove the toothpicks carefully before serving to avoid any mishaps.
• Making Ahead: You can prepare the bombs ahead of time and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before cooking. This makes them a great option for parties or busy weeknights.

Serving Suggestions

• Appetizer: Serve these bombs as an appetizer at your next party. They’re sure to be a hit, especially with the included dipping sauce.
• Main Course: Pair them with a fresh garden salad, sweet potato fries, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
• Game Day Snack: These Bacon Cheeseburger Bombs are perfect for game day, served alongside other finger foods like nachos or chicken wings.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 350 kcal
• Fat: 28g
• Carbohydrates: 2g
• Protein: 20g
• Sugar: 2g
• Fiber: 0g

Storage and Leftovers

• Storage: Store any leftover cheeseburger bombs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They’re just as delicious when reheated.
• Reheating: Reheat the bombs in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also reheat them in a microwave, but they may lose some crispiness.
• Freezing: These bombs can be frozen for up to 2 months. Freeze them on a baking sheet first, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey is a leaner option that works well in this recipe. Just be sure to adjust the seasoning as needed, since turkey has a milder flavor than beef.

What other dipping sauces go well with these bombs?

Ranch dressing, barbecue sauce, or even a spicy sriracha mayo are all excellent choices that complement the flavors of the cheeseburger bombs.

How do I keep the cheese from leaking out during cooking?

Ensure that the beef is completely sealed around the cheese before wrapping it in bacon. You can also chill the formed bombs for about 15 minutes before cooking to help them hold their shape.

Can I make these bombs in an air fryer?

Absolutely! Cook them in an air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-18 minutes, turning halfway through. The air fryer will give you a crispy exterior while keeping the cheese melty and delicious.

What’s the best way to serve these at a party?

Serve them on a platter with toothpicks already removed, and provide a variety of dipping sauces in small bowls. This makes them easy to grab and enjoy without any fuss.

Conclusion

Bacon Cheeseburger Bombs are the ultimate combination of two beloved comfort foods: cheeseburgers and bacon. These bite-sized delights are easy to make, incredibly flavorful, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving them as an appetizer, main course, or game-day snack, they’re sure to be a hit with everyone who tries them. With just a handful of ingredients and a little bit of prep time, you can create a dish that’s not only delicious but also fun to eat. So go ahead, give this recipe a try, and watch as these Bacon Cheeseburger Bombs disappear from the plate in no time!

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