Cheddar-Stuffed BBQ Bacon Bombs
If you’re a fan of bacon-wrapped anything, these Cheddar-Stuffed BBQ Bacon Bombs are about to become your new favorite guilty pleasure. Combining the salty-smoky goodness of bacon with the ooey-gooey richness of melted cheddar and a sweet-and-tangy BBQ glaze, these bite-sized bombs pack a flavor punch that’s impossible to resist.
Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue, watching the big game, or just craving a decadent snack, these Cheddar-Stuffed BBQ Bacon Bombs are sure to be the star of the show. With their crispy bacon exterior, juicy and cheesy interior, and finger-licking-good sauce, they deliver the ultimate in comfort food indulgence.
❤️ Why You’ll Love This Recipe ❓
What sets these Cheddar-Stuffed BBQ Bacon Bombs apart is the incredible contrast of textures and flavors. The savory, salty bacon provides a delightful crunch, while the melted cheddar cheese delivers a creamy, gooey center. The homemade BBQ glaze adds a sweet-and-tangy punch that ties the whole dish together, making each bite an explosion of mouthwatering goodness.
But the best part? These bacon bombs are surprisingly easy to make, using simple ingredients that you likely already have in your kitchen. Plus, they can be prepared in advance and frozen, making them the perfect last-minute appetizer or snack that’s ready to go whenever the craving strikes.
Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just satisfying your own cravings, these Cheddar-Stuffed BBQ Bacon Bombs are sure to become a new favorite in your recipe repertoire.
🛒 What You Need to Prepare Cheddar-Stuffed BBQ Bacon Bombs ❓
• 8 oz cheddar cheese, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 12 slices bacon, cut in half
• 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
• 2 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
The beauty of this Cheddar-Stuffed BBQ Bacon Bombs recipe is that most ingredients are pantry or freezer staples. The combination of savory pork, smoky bacon, and tangy BBQ sauce creates the classic barbecue-inspired flavor profile that has made bacon-wrapped recipes perennially popular.
📝 How to Make Cheddar-Stuffed BBQ Bacon Bombs Step-by-Step ❓
• Step 2: In a medium bowl, mix together the ground pork (or Italian sausage), brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper until well combined.
• Step 3: Divide the pork mixture into 12 equal portions and flatten each one into a thin patty. Place a cube of cheddar cheese in the center of each patty, then wrap the pork around the cheese, sealing it completely.
• Step 4: Wrap each cheese-stuffed pork ball with a half-slice of bacon, overlapping the edges slightly to ensure the bacon stays in place.
• Step 5: Place the bacon-wrapped pork balls on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the pork is cooked through.
• Step 6: In a small bowl, mix the BBQ sauce and 2 tablespoons of water. Brush the baked bacon bombs with the BBQ sauce mixture, making sure to coat them evenly.
• Step 7: Return the bacon bombs to the oven and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the sauce has caramelized and formed a sticky glaze.
⏱️ Timing Overview
• Cooking time: 30-40 minutes
• Total time: 50-60 minutes
Compared to traditional bacon-wrapped appetizers which can take up to an hour to prepare, this Cheddar-Stuffed BBQ Bacon Bombs recipe saves you 10-20% of your cooking time while delivering similar flavors.
👩🏻⚕️ Nutritional Information
Per serving (based on 12 servings):
• Protein: 16g
• Carbohydrates: 8g
• Fat: 18g
• Fiber: 0g
• Sodium: 570mg
These Cheddar-Stuffed BBQ Bacon Bombs provide approximately 25% of your daily protein requirements and 25% of your daily sodium needs, making them not just delicious but nutritionally valuable as well.
🔄 Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe
• Lower-carb version: Omit the brown sugar and use a sugar-free or low-sugar BBQ sauce.
• Dairy-free adaptation: Replace the cheddar cheese with a dairy-free cheese alternative or a vegan cheese slice.
• Added protein: Add 2-3 tablespoons of protein powder to the pork mixture for an extra protein boost.
• Boost vegetables: Finely chop and sauté onions, bell peppers, or mushrooms, then mix them into the pork mixture before wrapping in bacon.
These modifications can reduce calories by up to 20% or adapt the recipe for specific dietary needs without compromising the fundamental flavor profile of the Cheddar-Stuffed BBQ Bacon Bombs.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
• Pair with a crisp, cool salad for a more balanced meal.
• Complement the bacon bombs with a hearty tomato or vegetable soup for a comforting dinner.
• For a game day spread, serve alongside other finger foods like sliders, chicken wings, or mini quiches.
• Create an appetizer platter with the bacon bombs, deviled eggs, and mini meatballs for a crowd-pleasing presentation.
❌ Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Undercooked pork: Make sure the pork is cooked through before adding the BBQ sauce. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
• Leaky cheese: Properly sealing the pork around the cheese cubes is crucial to prevent the cheese from oozing out during baking. Take your time and use your fingers to pinch the pork around the cheese tightly.
• Soggy bottoms: Placing the bacon-wrapped bombs directly on the baking sheet can lead to a soggy underside. Use a wire rack set over a baking sheet to allow the bottoms to crisp up evenly.
• Forgetting the glaze: Don’t skip the final step of brushing the bacon bombs with the sweet and tangy BBQ sauce glaze. This crucial step adds the signature flavor and caramelized crust.
🧊 Storing Tips for the Recipe
These Cheddar-Stuffed BBQ Bacon Bombs retain their quality remarkably well:
• Freezing unbaked: Prepare the bacon bombs through step 4, then place them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Transfer the frozen balls to a resealable bag or container and store for up to 3 months. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
• Freezing baked: Allow the baked and sauced bacon bombs to cool completely, then wrap each one individually in plastic wrap or foil. Place the wrapped bombs in a resealable bag or airtight container and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.
• Reheating: To reheat refrigerated or thawed frozen bacon bombs, place them on a baking sheet and warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5-10 minutes, or until heated through and the cheese is melted.
❓ FAQs
Can I make the Cheddar-Stuffed BBQ Bacon Bombs in advance?
Absolutely! The bacon bombs can be fully assembled and frozen unbaked for up to 3 months. When ready to serve, simply bake them directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time. Alternatively, you can bake the bacon bombs in advance, then freeze them for up to 2 months. Reheat the frozen, baked bombs in the oven until heated through.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, you can substitute the cheddar cheese with other melty cheese varieties, such as mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack. Keep in mind that the flavor profile will be slightly different, but the overall concept of a cheese-stuffed, bacon-wrapped bomb will still be delicious.
Can I make a vegetarian or vegan version of this recipe?
For a vegetarian version, you can use a plant-based meat alternative, such as Beyond Meat or Impossible Burger, in place of the ground pork. For a vegan adaptation, use a dairy-free cheese slice or shredded cheese, and substitute the bacon with a plant-based bacon-style product, such as coconut bacon or tempeh bacon.
Why are my bacon bombs leaking cheese?
If the cheese is leaking out during baking, it’s likely because the pork didn’t fully enclose the cheese cube. Make sure to pinch and seal the pork tightly around the cheese to prevent any gaps or holes. You can also try using smaller cheese cubes to make them easier to wrap completely.
Can I add other ingredients to the Cheddar-Stuffed BBQ Bacon Bombs?
Absolutely! Feel free to get creative with additions like diced jalapeños, crumbled cooked bacon, caramelized onions, or chopped fresh herbs. Just be mindful of the overall volume of ingredients so that the pork can still fully enclose the filling.
Conclusion
These Cheddar-Stuffed BBQ Bacon Bombs represent the perfect balance of convenience, flavor, and presentation. Whether you’re serving them as a game day appetizer or a party snack, they’re sure to impress with their irresistible combination of crispy bacon, melty cheese, and tangy-sweet barbecue glaze. The versatility of this recipe allows for countless variations to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs.
With simple ingredients and straightforward preparation, these bacon-wrapped delights demonstrate that sophisticated flavors don’t require complicated techniques – just quality ingredients and a little bit of care in the wrapping and baking process. So gather your friends and family, fire up the oven, and get ready to dive into the most delectable Cheddar-Stuffed BBQ Bacon Bombs you’ve ever tasted.
