BBQ Main Dish Ideas: Bourbon Bacon Cheeseburger Meatballs Recipe
These Bourbon Bacon Cheeseburger Meatballs are the ultimate BBQ main dish idea! Packed with smoky bacon, melty cheddar, and seasoned ground beef, then glazed with a rich bourbon BBQ sauce—each bite delivers bold flavor and backyard cookout vibes. Perfect for parties, tailgates, or weeknight grilling.
Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Skillet or grill pan
- Baking sheet (optional)
- Saucepan
- Tongs or spatula
- Optional: Meat thermometer
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20)
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar
- 4–5 strips thick-cut bacon (halved)
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup bourbon BBQ sauce (homemade or store-bought)
- Optional: splash of Worcestershire sauce
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, shredded cheese, salt, and pepper.
- Form into 1.5-inch meatballs. Wrap each with half a strip of bacon if desired.
- Sear in a skillet or bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes 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.
Notes
- Use cold ingredients for easier shaping.
- Don’t overmix—keeps meatballs tender.
- Simmer sauce until thick for maximum flavor.
- Rest meatballs before coating to retain juices.
- For gluten-free: use GF breadcrumbs and check sauce labels.
- For spice lovers: add jalapeños or hot sauce.
- For a sweeter twist: try a maple bourbon glaze.