BBQ Bacon Wrapped Meatballs – There’s something irresistibly delicious about the combination of smoky flavors. And tender meat. That makes BBQ Bacon Wrapped Meatballs. A go-to recipe in my kitchen. This dish. Featuring a bold mix of hickory. Or smoky BBQ sauce. And the savory goodness of bacon-wrapped meatballs. Promises a mouthwatering experience. Perfect for gatherings. Appetizers, or even a main course. These meatballs are a hit every time.
The first time I decided to make these BBQ Bacon Wrapped Meatballs. It was for a small family gathering. I wanted something that could be a conversation starter. And oh, did it deliver! My husband. Who’s always been a fan of anything BBQ. And my little one. Whose eyes light up at the sight of meatballs. Both fell in love with the dish instantly. It’s become a requested favorite for game nights. Weekend dinners. And even my go-to recipe. When I need to win over guests.
What makes this BBQ Bacon Wrapped Meatballs truly special?
What sets these BBQ Bacon Wrapped Meatballs apart? Firstly, the versatility in the choice of BBQ sauce. Allows you to customize the flavor profile to your liking. Be it sweet. Tangy. Or with a robust smoky punch. Secondly, the option to use either homemade. Or store-bought meatballs. Offers flexibility. And convenience. Lastly, the bacon wrap. Not only adds an extra layer of flavor. But also keeps the meatballs juicy. And tender on the inside. While achieving a perfect crisp on the outside.
What You Need To Make This BBQ Bacon Wrapped Meatballs Recipe?
Bacon: Choose thin strips for the best wrap. Around the meatballs. Giving them a delicious smoky flavor. And crispy texture.
BBQ Sauce: Pick a sauce that matches your taste preference. Whether it’s sweet. Tangy, or smoky. This will define the dish’s flavor profile.
Meatballs: You can use either store-bought. For convenience. Or make your own. For a more personal touch. The homemade mix combines ground beef, spices, and breadcrumbs. For juicy. And flavorful meatballs.
Toothpicks: These are essential. For keeping the bacon securely wrapped around the meatballs while they cook.
Meatball Mix: If you opt for homemade. Mix ground beef with garlic, onions, seasonings, and breadcrumbs. This blend ensures the meatballs are flavorful. And hold together well during cooking.
Steps To Make BBQ Bacon Wrapped Meatballs:
Step 1: Homemade Meatballs (Optional): Mix the ground beef, garlic, onion, and seasonings. Form into small. Bite-sized balls. Remember, the bacon needs to wrap around comfortably. So not too big!
Step 2: Preparation: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Whether you’re rolling with homemade. Or store-bought. Wrap each meatball in a bacon strip. And secure it with a toothpick.
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Step 3: Baking Setup: Place the bacon-wrapped delights on a wire rack. Over a foil-lined baking sheet. This keeps them out of the grease. And allows for even cooking.
Step 4: Sauce ‘Em Up: Generously brush each meatball. With your chosen BBQ sauce. Halfway through. Give them another coat. To ensure every bite. Is bursting with flavor.
Step 5: Crisp to Perfection: Bake. Sauce. And then bake a little more. Until the bacon is just the right amount of crispy. Finish with a final brush of BBQ sauce. For that glossy look.
Tip:
For a truly standout experience. With your BBQ Bacon Wrapped Meatballs. Here’s a pro tip. That elevates the dish:
Glaze Perfection: After the final brushing of BBQ sauce. Broil the meatballs for a brief 2-3 minutes. Keep a close eye on them. To prevent burning. This step caramelizes the sauce. Creating a beautifully glazed exterior. That’s slightly crispy. Adding a wonderful texture contrast to the juicy meatballs. And crispy bacon. This final touch deepens the flavors. And adds a restaurant-quality finish. That will impress your guests. And satisfy those cravings. For something sweet. Smoky, and slightly charred.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I make these ahead of time?
Prepare and wrap the meatballs. Then refrigerate. When you’re ready. Just bake as directed. Perfect for planning ahead!
What’s the best BBQ sauce to use?
Go with what you love. If you prefer a sweeter touch. Choose a sauce with honey. Or brown sugar. Love a good kick? Look for sauces labeled “spicy”. Or ones with chipotle.
Can I freeze them?
You can freeze the bacon-wrapped meatballs. Either before or after cooking. Just ensure they’re tightly wrapped. Or stored in an airtight container.
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Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!
<Remember it later>
Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!
BBQ Bacon Wrapped Meatballs
Ingredients
- 1 package of bacon strips cut into thirds
- 2 c or more BBQ sauce – any variety you prefer with a bold hickory or smoky flavour.
- 1.5 pounds frozen prepared meatballs partially thawed so a toothpick will go through OR homemade meatballs using the Meatball Mix below.
- Toothpicks
Meatball Mix:
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 3 cloves of garlic minced
- 1 small onion chopped finely
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon oregano
- 2 tablespoons Italian style bread crumbs plain breadcrumbs are also fine if that’s what you have
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prep Meatballs: If making homemade. Mix ground beef, garlic, onion, Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, oregano, breadcrumbs, salt, and pepper. Form into small. Bite-sized balls. For store-bought. Ensure they're partially thawed.
- Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Wrap Meatballs: Cut bacon strips into thirds. Wrap each meatball in a piece of bacon. And secure it with a toothpick.
- Arrange for Baking: Place a wire rack. Over a baking sheet lined with foil. Arrange the bacon-wrapped meatballs on the rack.
- Apply BBQ Sauce: Brush the meatballs with BBQ sauce on all sides.
- Bake: Place in the oven for 15 minutes. Remove. Brush again with BBQ sauce. Then bake for another 15 minutes.
- Final Glaze: Apply one more coat of BBQ sauce. And bake for an additional 5-10 minutes. Or until the bacon is crisp.
- Serve Warm: Give them one last brush with BBQ sauce. Before serving warm.
- Enjoy your delicious BBQ Bacon Wrapped Meatballs!
Notes
I’m Bitty, owner of nodashofgluten.com, where I share simple, delicious recipes for all tastes, including gluten-free. Check out my “About Me” page for more info!
