Bourbon Bacon Cheeseburger Meatballs

Name: Bourbon Bacon Cheeseburger Meatballs
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 24 meatballs
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1/2 cup cooked bacon, chopped; 1/4 cup bourbon; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 egg; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp onion powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; Chopped green onions for garnish

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Elevate your appetizer game with these Bourbon Bacon Cheeseburger Meatballs! Juicy and flavorful, these bites combine savory ground beef with rich bourbon and crispy bacon, then topped with gooey cheese for a mouthwatering twist on classic burgers. Perfect for game day, parties, or any casual gathering, these meatballs are sure to be a crowd-pleaser that everyone will love.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-10-20T04:25:29.689Z

Bourbon Bacon Cheeseburger Meatballs bring together the best of flavors in one bite. The sweetness of bourbon complements the savory bacon and beef, creating an irresistible taste profile.

A Unique Flavor Combination

These Bourbon Bacon Cheeseburger Meatballs bring together a delightful medley of flavors that redefine the traditional meatball. The inclusion of bourbon not only enhances the savory profile but also adds a subtle sweetness that complements the richness of the bacon. This combination results in a complex and mouthwatering taste that is sure to impress your guests.

Cheeseburgers are a beloved classic, and by transforming them into meatballs, this recipe takes comfort food to a whole new level. The gooey cheddar cheese melting atop the meatballs creates a decadent finish that invites everyone to indulge. Every bite delivers a burst of flavors reminiscent of classic American BBQ, making these meatballs perfect for any gathering.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether you're hosting a game day party, a casual get-together, or a holiday feast, these meatballs are a guaranteed hit. Their small size makes them the perfect appetizer for mingling and snacking without the need for utensils. Guests will love popping these flavorful bites into their mouths, making them an ideal choice for social events.

In addition to being crowd-pleasers, these meatballs are incredibly versatile. They can serve as a standalone appetizer, a part of a buffet spread, or even as a main dish when paired with sides like coleslaw or fries. With a little creativity, you can easily adapt the recipe to fit different themes or dietary preferences, ensuring that everyone leaves satisfied.

Make Ahead and Freeze

One of the best aspects of these bourbon bacon cheeseburger meatballs is their convenience. You can prep them in advance, making them a fantastic option for busy hosts. After shaping the meatballs, you can freeze them uncooked on a baking sheet. Once they're frozen solid, transfer them to a freezer bag for long-term storage.

When you're ready to serve, simply bake them from frozen, adding a little extra cooking time. This way, you can enjoy the deliciousness without the stress of last-minute cooking. They also reheat well, making leftovers or meal prep an easy task, ensuring that you'll always have a tasty snack on hand.

Ingredients

For the Meatballs

1 lb ground beef
1/2 cup cooked bacon, chopped
1/4 cup bourbon
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 egg
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste

For Topping

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Chopped green onions for garnish

Mix all ingredients well and shape the mixture into meatballs.

Steps

Mix Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, chopped bacon, bourbon, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined.

Shape Meatballs

Form the mixture into meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter, and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Bake Meatballs

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake the meatballs for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through.

Add Cheese

In the last 5 minutes of baking, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top of each meatball and return to the oven until melted.

Serve

Garnish with chopped green onions and serve with your favorite dipping sauce.

Enjoy these delicious meatballs warm!

Tips for Perfect Meatballs

To ensure your meatballs are perfectly tender, avoid overmixing the ingredients. Mix until just combined, and let the mixture rest for a few minutes before forming the balls. This allows the breadcrumbs to absorb moisture and helps the meatballs maintain their shape while baking.

If you want to add more flavor, consider mixing in some of your favorite spices or herbs, such as smoked paprika, cumin, or fresh parsley. Experimenting with different flavor profiles can lead to delicious new twists on this classic recipe.

Serving Suggestions

These meatballs pair well with a range of dipping sauces to enhance the experience. Consider serving them with BBQ sauce, a zesty ranch, or a tangy mustard dip. You can also create a mini slider experience by placing meatballs on small buns with toppings for an interactive feast.

For a well-rounded meal, team these meatballs with a fresh salad or roasted vegetables. The contrast of textures and flavors will elevate your dining experience and impress your guests.

Storage and Reheating

Leftover meatballs can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. To maintain their flavor and texture, it's best to reheat them gently in the oven or on the stovetop until warmed through. Avoid the microwave if you can, as it can lead to a somewhat rubbery texture.

For long-term storage, consider freezing leftovers. Place cooked meatballs in a freezer-safe container and enjoy them later by reheating directly from frozen or thawing them overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the meatballs in advance and refrigerate them until ready to bake.

→ What can I serve with these meatballs?

They pair well with a dipping sauce like barbecue sauce or ranch dressing.