Description
Bacon-Wrapped Cheese-Stuffed Meatballs
Ingredients:
For the Meatballs:
500g ground beef
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1 egg
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 tsp onion powder
1/2 tsp smoked paprika
Salt and black pepper to taste
1/2 cup shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese (for stuffing)
For the Wrapping:
6-8 slices of bacon
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (for topping)
For Garnish:
Chopped green onions or fresh parsley
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Instructions:
1. Prepare the Meatballs:
In a bowl, mix ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, minced garlic, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Combine well.
Take a small portion of the mixture, flatten it, and place a small amount of shredded cheese in the center. Wrap the meat around the cheese to form a ball. Repeat with the remaining mixture.
2. Wrap with Bacon:
Wrap each meatball with a slice of bacon, securing it with a toothpick if needed.
3. Cook the Meatballs:
Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). Place the meatballs on a baking tray lined with parchment paper.
Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the meatballs are cooked through.
4. Add Cheese Topping:
Remove the meatballs from the oven and sprinkle shredded mozzarella on top. Return to the oven for 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese melts.
5. Garnish and Serve:
Remove the toothpicks (if used), garnish with chopped green onions or parsley, and serve warm. Enjoy!
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for perfect meatballs every time. First, preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. In a large bowl, thoroughly combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, minced garlic, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Ensure the mixture is uniform. For stuffing, take roughly a tablespoon of the meat mixture, flatten it in your palm, and place a pinch of shredded cheese in the center. Carefully fold the meat around the cheese, rolling gently to form a sealed ball. Next, stretch a slice of bacon slightly and wrap it snugly around each meatball, securing the end with a toothpick. Place each bacon-wrapped meatball seam-side down on the baking sheet. Bake for 20-25 minutes until the bacon is crisp and the internal temperature reaches 70°C (160°F). Finally, sprinkle the remaining mozzarella over the hot meatballs and return to the oven for 2-3 minutes to melt.
Serving Suggestions
These meatballs are incredibly versatile. Serve them as a hearty appetizer with marinara, ranch, or a creamy garlic dip for dipping. For a main course, pair them with creamy mashed potatoes, buttery pasta, or a crisp garden salad. They also make a fantastic addition to a sub sandwich, sliced and layered with marinara and more cheese on a toasted roll.
How-to Summary
To summarize: mix the meatball ingredients, form balls around cheese cubes, wrap each in bacon, bake at 200°C (400°F) for 20-25 minutes, top with extra cheese to melt, and garnish before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of meat? Yes, ground pork, turkey, or a mix can be used. Adjust cooking time as needed, as leaner meats may cook faster.
Can I make these ahead of time? Absolutely. Assemble the meatballs, wrap in bacon, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. You can also freeze them unbaked on a tray, then transfer to a bag for up to 3 months. Bake from frozen, adding extra time.
How do I prevent the cheese from leaking? Ensure the cheese is fully enclosed by the meat and that the seams are tightly sealed. Using chilled meat mixture and cold cheese also helps.
Can I cook these in an air fryer? Yes. Cook at 190°C (375°F) for 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway, until the bacon is crispy and the meat is cooked through.
What’s the best way to store leftovers? Store cooled meatballs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer to maintain crispiness.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid overmixing the meatball ingredients, as this can make the final texture dense and tough. Do not overstuff the meatballs with cheese, as this increases leakage. Ensure your bacon slices are not too thick, or they may not crisp up properly in the cooking time. Finally, do not skip the parchment paper, as the bacon grease can cause significant sticking and messy cleanup.
Conclusion
Bacon-Wrapped Cheese-Stuffed Meatballs are the ultimate crowd-pleaser, combining juicy beef, molten cheese, and crispy bacon in one irresistible bite. By following this enhanced guide, you can master the technique, avoid common pitfalls, and serve them with confidence for any occasion. This recipe is sure to become a treasured favorite in your culinary repertoire.