BBQ Bacon Meatballs

Introduction:

Sink your teeth into these BBQ Bacon Meatballs—juicy, flavorful, and irresistible. Whether you’re hosting a party or looking for a satisfying family dinner, this recipe will quickly become a favorite.

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Reasons to Love This BBQ Bacon Meatballs Recipe:

• Packed with Flavor: A savory blend of beef, pork, and smoky bacon.
• Versatile: Ideal as an appetizer, snack, or even a main course.
• Simple Ingredients: Easy-to-find staples make this recipe accessible for everyone.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for gatherings or meal prep.

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Ingredients You’ll Need:

• Protein: Ground beef, with the option to include ground pork for extra richness.
• Binding Ingredients: Breadcrumbs, milk, and egg to hold everything together.
• Flavor Boosters: Onion, garlic, and BBQ sauce for depth of flavor.
• Special Touch: Crispy, chopped bacon adds a smoky finish.
• Optional Garnish: Fresh parsley for a pop of color.

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Possible Ingredient Additions and Substitutions:

• Meat: Swap ground pork for turkey or chicken for a leaner version.
• Spices: Add smoked paprika or cayenne for a spicier kick.
• Gluten-Free: Use almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs.
• Cheese: Stuff the meatballs with small cubes of cheddar or mozzarella for a gooey surprise.

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Tools You’ll Need:

• Large mixing bowl
• Baking sheet lined with parchment paper
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Brush for glazing

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Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Set it to 375°F (190°C) and prepare the baking sheet.
2. Mix Ingredients: In a bowl, combine all ingredients except bacon and parsley. Mix until fully combined.
3. Shape the Meatballs: Form 1.5-inch meatballs and arrange them on the baking sheet.
4. Bake: Cook for 20-25 minutes, ensuring they’re browned and cooked through.
5. Prepare the Glaze: Combine chopped bacon with additional BBQ sauce.
6. Glaze and Finish: Brush the meatballs with the bacon mixture, then bake for 5 more minutes.
7. Garnish and Serve: Add parsley if desired and serve with extra BBQ sauce.

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What to Serve with BBQ Bacon Meatballs:

• Appetizer: Pair with toothpicks and dipping sauces like ranch or spicy mayo.
• Main Dish: Serve with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad.

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How to Store BBQ Bacon Meatballs:

• Refrigerator: Keep leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Reheat: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes.

Resources

How to Make Juicy Meatballs Every Time (Bon Appétit)

BBQ Sauce Recipe & Tips (Serious Eats)

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Can I Freeze BBQ Bacon Meatballs?

Yes! Allow the meatballs to cool completely before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag or container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):

Q: Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! Prepare the meatballs and store them in the fridge for up to a day before baking.

Q: Can I skip the bacon?
A: Yes, but the bacon adds an extra layer of flavor that’s hard to beat.

Q: Are these spicy?
A: Not inherently. However, you can add spice by including chili flakes or hot BBQ sauce.

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Nutritional Information (per serving, based on 20 meatballs):

• Calories: ~120
• Protein: 9g
• Carbs: 4g
• Fat: 7g

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Conclusion:
These BBQ Bacon Meatballs are a delicious addition to any occasion. Easy to prepare and packed with smoky, savory flavors, they’re sure to impress your family and friends. Try this recipe today and watch them disappear from the plate!

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