If you are looking for a bold, juicy, and irresistible appetizer or dinner idea, these BBQ bacon wrapped stuffed meatballs are the ultimate comfort food. Packed with flavor, wrapped in smoky bacon, filled with melted cheese, and glazed with sticky barbecue sauce, each bite delivers the perfect balance of savory, sweet, and smoky goodness.
These meatballs are not your average recipe. They combine tender seasoned beef, a gooey cheese center, crispy bacon on the outside, and a rich BBQ glaze that caramelizes beautifully during cooking. The result is a mouthwatering dish that looks impressive yet is surprisingly easy to prepare.
Perfect for parties, game nights, family dinners, or backyard gatherings, these bacon wrapped meatballs are guaranteed to disappear fast. Once you try them, they will quickly become one of your favorite homemade recipes.
Why You’ll Love These BBQ Bacon Wrapped Meatballs
These stuffed meatballs are full of texture and flavor. The beef stays juicy, the cheese melts into a creamy center, the bacon turns crispy, and the barbecue sauce creates a glossy finish that ties everything together.
They are also very versatile. You can serve them as appetizers with toothpicks, as a main dish with sides, or even in sandwiches and sliders. They work for both casual meals and special occasions.
Another big advantage is how simple the ingredients are. Everything is easy to find and requires minimal preparation time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 500g ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried herbs or parsley
- Cubes of mozzarella or cheddar cheese
- 8–10 slices bacon, cut in half
- 1 cup barbecue sauce
Optional additions:
- Chili flakes
- Worcestershire sauce
- Brown sugar
- Fresh parsley for garnish
How to Make Bacon Wrapped Stuffed Meatballs
Start by preheating your oven to 190°C (375°F). Line a baking tray with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup.
In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic, onion, salt, pepper, paprika, and herbs. Mix gently until everything is well incorporated. Avoid overmixing to keep the meatballs tender.
Take a small portion of the mixture and flatten it slightly in your hand. Place a cube of cheese in the center, then wrap the meat around it and roll into a tight ball. Make sure the cheese is fully sealed inside.
Next, wrap each meatball with a strip of bacon. Secure with a toothpick if needed. Arrange them evenly on the baking tray.
Bake for about 20 to 25 minutes until the bacon begins to crisp and the meatballs are cooked through.
Remove from the oven and brush each one generously with barbecue sauce. Return to the oven for another 8 to 10 minutes until the sauce thickens and becomes sticky and caramelized.
Tips for Perfect Results
Use regular bacon instead of thick-cut. It wraps more easily and crisps better.
Make sure the cheese is fully sealed inside the meat to prevent leaking during cooking.
Do not overcrowd the tray. Leave space between each meatball so the bacon cooks evenly.
For extra crispiness, broil for the last few minutes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these BBQ bacon wrapped meatballs hot and fresh. They pair perfectly with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple salad.
For parties, serve them as finger food with dipping sauces like ranch, extra BBQ sauce, or garlic mayo.
You can also place them inside slider buns with lettuce and pickles for mini burgers.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer to keep the bacon crispy.
They can also be frozen and reheated later for quick meals.
A Flavor Explosion in Every Bite
These BBQ bacon wrapped stuffed meatballs combine juicy beef, melted cheese, crispy bacon, and sweet smoky sauce into one unforgettable dish. Easy to prepare and full of bold flavor, they are perfect for any occasion.
Once you make them, they will quickly become a go-to recipe whenever you want something hearty, satisfying, and guaranteed to impress.