A Backyard BBQ Favorite with a Gourmet Twist

There’s something magical about gathering around the grill with friends and family, the scent of smoky goodness wafting through the air. One summer evening, I brought out a tray of bourbon bacon cheeseburger meatballs—and they vanished in minutes. These bold, flavor-packed bites have since become my go-to for cookouts, game nights, and casual get-togethers.

What makes them so irresistible? It’s the perfect marriage of juicy ground beef, crispy bacon, melty cheddar, and a sticky-sweet bourbon BBQ glaze. Each bite delivers a punch of smoky, cheesy, and savory satisfaction. Whether served on skewers, sliders, or straight from the pan, these meatballs are versatile crowd-pleasers that elevate any BBQ spread.

What Are Bourbon Bacon Cheeseburger Meatballs?

Imagine the best parts of a bacon cheeseburger and a hearty meatball sub rolled into one indulgent bite. That’s the essence of bourbon bacon cheeseburger meatballs. Inspired by classic American comfort food, they combine ground beef, sharp cheddar, crispy bacon, and a rich bourbon-infused BBQ glaze.

The result? A smoky, sweet, and savory flavor bomb that’s perfect for grilling or baking. These meatballs are juicy thanks to 80/20 ground beef, with just enough fat to keep them tender and flavorful. Whether served as a main dish or party appetizer, they’re guaranteed to steal the spotlight.

Tip: Use 80/20 ground beef for the ideal balance of moisture and flavor.

Flavor Profile: Smoky, Sweet, and Boldly Cheesy

These meatballs are a masterclass in bold BBQ flavor:

Bourbon BBQ sauce delivers deep caramel notes and a hint of sweetness.
Bacon adds crunch, salt, and a smoky punch.
Cheddar cheese melts into the meatballs, creating gooey richness.
Garlic, onion powder, and smoked paprika round out the savory base.

Each bite is layered with complexity, making them unforgettable. Want extra kick? Try pepper jack for a spicy twist.

Tip: Sharp cheddar stands up beautifully to the bold BBQ glaze.

Why This Recipe Works

Ready in just 30 minutes
Balanced sweet, smoky, and savory flavors
Easily customizable with spices or toppings
Great for meal prep or feeding a crowd

Tools You’ll Need

Mixing bowl
Skillet or grill pan
Baking sheet (for oven method)
Saucepan (for bourbon BBQ glaze)
Tongs or spatula
Optional: meat thermometer for precision

Ingredient Notes and Smart Substitutions

Ground beef: 80/20 for juicy texture
Bacon: thick-cut for maximum crisp
Cheese: sharp cheddar or pepper jack for bold flavor
Bourbon BBQ sauce: homemade or store-bought
Breadcrumbs and egg: essential for binding
Garlic/onion powder, smoked paprika: for depth

Tip: A splash of Worcestershire sauce adds irresistible umami.

Step-by-Step Instructions

In a mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic/onion powder, smoked paprika, and shredded cheese.
Form into meatballs (about 1.5 inches wide). Wrap each with half a strip of bacon if desired.
Sear in a skillet or bake at 400°F until browned and cooked through (internal temp: 160°F).
In a saucepan, simmer bourbon BBQ sauce until thickened and glossy.
Let meatballs rest for 5 minutes, then toss in warm sauce and serve hot.

Tip: Resting helps retain juices and keeps meatballs tender.