Cheddar Stuffed BBQ Bacon Bites (Printer-Friendly)

Juicy beef bites filled with cheddar and wrapped in smoky bacon, glazed with tangy BBQ sauce.

# List of Ingredients:

→ Meat Mixture

01 - 1 pound ground beef (80/20 blend)
02 - 1/4 cup plain breadcrumbs
03 - 1 large egg
04 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
05 - 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
06 - 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
07 - 1/2 teaspoon onion powder

→ Filling

08 - 3/4 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese

→ Assembly & Glaze

09 - 12 slices thick-cut bacon
10 - 1/2 cup BBQ sauce

# Preparation Steps:

01 - Set the oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit to ensure even cooking and crisp bacon.
02 - In a large bowl, gently mix ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder until just combined to maintain tenderness.
03 - Take portions of the meat mixture and press shredded cheddar cheese into the center, shaping into sealed balls to prevent cheese leakage.
04 - Wrap each meatball tightly with one slice of thick-cut bacon, overlapping slightly to secure during baking.
05 - Arrange the bacon-wrapped balls on a baking sheet and brush each generously with BBQ sauce for a sticky, smoky finish.
06 - Bake for 25 to 30 minutes or until bacon crisps and the internal temperature reaches 160 degrees Fahrenheit, confirming doneness.
07 - Remove from oven and serve immediately to enjoy the contrast of melted cheddar and crispy bacon at peak texture.

# Additional Suggestions:

01 - Using thick-cut bacon prevents burning and ensures chewy crispiness.
02 - Seal cheese completely inside to avoid leaks during baking.