Get ready for the ultimate crowd-pleasing appetizer that combines two of the most irresistible foods on the planet: juicy meatballs and crispy bacon! These Easy Bacon Wrapped Meatballs are about to become your new go-to recipe for parties, game nights, or when you simply want to indulge in a mouthwatering treat that will have everyone begging for seconds. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you'll create a dish so delicious, it'll become legendary in your recipe collection.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 20 meatballs
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 pound bacon, cut in half
- BBQ sauce for brushing (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a large baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper. Place a wire rack on top of the baking sheet to allow fat to drip off during cooking.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, egg, and garlic powder. Mix thoroughly using your hands until all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Using your hands, roll the meat mixture into uniform meatballs, approximately 1-
- 5 inches in diameter. You should be able to make around 20 meatballs.
- Cut bacon strips in half crosswise. Wrap each meatball completely with a half slice of bacon, ensuring the bacon is snug but not overly tight.
- Arrange the bacon-wrapped meatballs on the wire rack, leaving a small space between each to ensure even cooking and crispy bacon.
- Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the bacon is crisp and the meatballs are cooked through (internal temperature should reach 160°F).
- Optional: During the last 5 minutes of cooking, brush the meatballs with BBQ sauce for added flavor and caramelization.
- Remove from oven and let rest for 3-5 minutes to allow juices to redistribute. Use a meat thermometer to confirm doneness.
- Transfer to a serving platter and serve hot as an appetizer or main course. Can be paired with additional BBQ sauce for dipping.
Tips
- Use a wire rack: This is crucial for allowing excess fat to drip away, ensuring your bacon gets perfectly crispy and your meatballs aren't swimming in grease.
- Don't overwork the meat: When mixing ingredients, combine gently to keep the meatballs tender and juicy.
- Uniform size matters: Roll meatballs to consistent sizes (1-
- 5 inches) to ensure even cooking.
- Bacon wrapping technique: Wrap bacon snugly but not too tight, allowing some room for the meat to expand while cooking.
- Use a meat thermometer: Always check that meatballs reach an internal temperature of 160°F for food safety.
- Optional flavor boost: Brush with BBQ sauce in the last 5 minutes of cooking for a caramelized, tangy finish.
- Let them rest: Allow meatballs to sit for 3-5 minutes after cooking to redistribute juices and ensure maximum flavor and tenderness.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 120kcal
Carbohydrates: 2g
Protein: 8g
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 35mg
