Description
Bacon-Wrapped Cheesy Meatballs
Ingredients:
For the Meatballs:
1 lb (450g) ground beef
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 egg
1 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
For the Topping:
8 slices of bacon
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Meatballs:
In a bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well and shape into meatballs.
2. Wrap with Bacon:
Wrap each meatball with a slice of bacon, securing with a toothpick if necessary.
3. Bake the Meatballs:
Place the bacon-wrapped meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, until the bacon is crispy and the meatballs are cooked through.
4. Add Cheese:
Remove from the oven and sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top of each meatball. Return to the oven for 2-3 minutes, until the cheese melts.
5. Garnish and Serve:
Top with chopped green onions before serving.
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for perfect results every time. First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. In a large mixing bowl, gently combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, egg, and seasonings. Avoid overmixing to keep the meatballs tender. Using a cookie scoop or your hands, form the mixture into evenly sized meatballs, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. Next, carefully stretch each bacon slice slightly before wrapping it around a meatball. Secure the bacon end with a toothpick, ensuring it is snug but not too tight. Arrange the wrapped meatballs seam-side down on the baking sheet, spacing them apart for even cooking.
Serving Suggestions
These versatile meatballs are perfect as an appetizer, main course, or party snack. Serve them hot from the oven on a platter with toothpicks for easy grabbing. For a main dish, pair them with creamy mashed potatoes, a crisp garden salad, or buttered pasta. Consider offering dipping sauces on the side, such as ranch dressing, barbecue sauce, or a spicy sriracha mayo. They also make an excellent addition to a game-day spread or holiday buffet.
How-to Summary
To quickly recap: Mix beef and seasonings, form into balls. Wrap each meatball with a slice of bacon and secure. Bake at 375°F for 20-25 minutes until bacon is crispy. Top with cheddar cheese and melt for 2-3 more minutes. Garnish with green onions and serve immediately.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of ground meat?
Yes, you can substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, pork, or a blend. Adjust cooking time as needed, as leaner meats may cook faster.
How can I make the meatballs gluten-free?
Simply replace the breadcrumbs with a gluten-free alternative, such as almond flour or certified gluten-free oats.
Can I prepare these ahead of time?
Absolutely. Assemble the bacon-wrapped meatballs, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Add a few extra minutes to the baking time if cooking from cold.
How do I store and reheat leftovers?
Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer at 350°F until warmed through to maintain crispiness.
My bacon isn’t getting crispy. What can I do?
Ensure your oven is fully preheated. For extra crispness, you can partially cook the bacon slices before wrapping, or broil the meatballs for the final 1-2 minutes of cooking, watching carefully.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overmixing the meat: This leads to dense, tough meatballs. Mix ingredients until just combined.
- Using thick-cut bacon: It may not cook through before the meatball dries out. Standard-cut bacon is ideal.
- Forgetting the parchment paper: This causes sticking and makes cleanup difficult.
- Overcrowding the pan: Space meatballs apart so the bacon renders and crisps properly.
- Skipping the toothpick: Secure the bacon well to prevent it from unraveling during baking.
Conclusion
Bacon-Wrapped Cheesy Meatballs are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that masterfully combines savory, smoky, and cheesy flavors. By following the detailed steps and tips provided, you can easily avoid common pitfalls and create a perfect dish. Whether for a casual family dinner or a special gathering, this recipe delivers impressive results with minimal effort. Enjoy the delicious combination of juicy meat, crispy bacon, and melted cheese in every bite.