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This BBQ Turkey Bacon Cheddar Bombs recipe transforms simple refrigerated biscuit dough into an irresistible savory treat packed with gooey cheddar, smoky turkey bacon, and tangy BBQ sauce. Perfect for game day snacking or as an appetizer that will have everyone reaching for seconds.
I first created these bombs when hosting a last minute football gathering and needed something impressive with ingredients I already had on hand. The look on my friends' faces when they bit into the gooey cheese center was priceless and now I'm requested to bring these to every potluck.
Ingredients
- Refrigerated biscuit dough provides the perfect pillowy exterior that bakes to golden perfection while sealing in all the delicious fillings
- Cheddar cheese cubes create that irresistible gooey center when melted. Choose a sharp cheddar for more flavor intensity
- Turkey bacon offers a leaner alternative to traditional bacon while still delivering smoky flavor. Look for a quality brand that isn't too thin
- BBQ sauce adds tangy sweetness that ties all flavors together. Select a sauce with balanced sweetness and smokiness for best results
- Melted butter creates that golden exterior and helps the seasonings adhere
- Garlic powder and onion powder provide aromatic depth without overpowering the other flavors
- Dried parsley adds a touch of color and subtle herbaceous notes that brighten the rich flavors
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare Your Workspace
- Preheat your oven to 375°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier. Gather all ingredients before starting to ensure smooth assembly.
- Prepare The Biscuit Dough
- Take each biscuit and flatten it into a 4 to 5 inch circle using your palms or a rolling pin. Work gently to avoid tearing the dough while ensuring it's thin enough to fold over the fillings but thick enough to contain everything.
- Assemble The Filling
- Place a cube of cheddar cheese in the center of each flattened biscuit. Wrap 1 to 2 halves of the precooked turkey bacon around the cheese cube to create a little package. The bacon helps protect the cheese and adds flavor throughout.
- Add The BBQ Component
- Spoon approximately 1 teaspoon of BBQ sauce directly over each bacon wrapped cheese bundle. The sauce will infuse into the cheese and bacon during baking creating pockets of tangy flavor.
- Seal The Bombs
- Carefully fold the edges of the biscuit dough up and over the filling from all sides working your way around the bundle. Pinch the seams firmly together to create a complete seal preventing cheese from leaking during baking.
- Create The Flavor Coating
- Mix melted butter with garlic powder onion powder and dried parsley in a small bowl. This aromatic mixture will baste the exterior of each bomb giving incredible flavor to the dough as it bakes.
- Bake To Perfection
- Place the sealed bombs seam side down on your prepared baking sheet spacing them about 2 inches apart. Brush each generously with the seasoned butter mixture and bake for 15 to 18 minutes until they achieve a deep golden brown color.
- Serve While Hot
- Allow the bombs to cool for just 2 to 3 minutes before serving. This brief rest helps the cheese set slightly so it doesn't completely run out when bitten into while still maintaining that perfect gooey stretch.
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The turkey bacon is truly the unsung hero in this recipe. I discovered its perfect pairing with the BBQ sauce during a failed attempt to make a healthier version of my favorite sandwich. The slightly sweet notes in the turkey bacon complement the tanginess of the BBQ sauce in a way regular bacon can't match.
Making Ahead and Storage
These BBQ Turkey Bacon Cheddar Bombs work wonderfully as a make ahead appetizer. You can assemble them completely up to 24 hours before baking and store them covered in the refrigerator. Simply brush with the seasoned butter right before baking and add 2 to 3 extra minutes to the baking time if cooking from cold. Leftover bombs can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes until warmed through or 30 seconds in the microwave though this may affect the texture of the dough.
Creative Variations
While this recipe is delicious as written you can easily customize these bombs to suit different tastes. Try substituting pepper jack for a spicy kick or mozzarella for an extra gooey pull. The BBQ sauce can be swapped for buffalo sauce ranch or even pizza sauce depending on your preference. For a breakfast twist use cooked breakfast sausage instead of turkey bacon and serve with maple syrup for dipping. The possibilities are truly endless once you master the basic technique.
Serving Suggestions
These bombs make an excellent appetizer when served with additional BBQ sauce and ranch dressing for dipping. For a complete meal pair them with a light green salad to balance the richness. They also work beautifully alongside soup for a heartier option. I love serving these at game day gatherings on a platter surrounded by celery and carrot sticks for some freshness and color contrast. The bombs retain their heat well making them perfect for buffet style serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use regular bacon instead of turkey bacon?
Yes, regular bacon works perfectly fine. Just ensure it's cooked before wrapping it around the cheese.
- → Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare them in advance and refrigerate them. Bake them fresh before serving to maintain their texture.
- → Can I use other types of cheese?
Absolutely! Swap cheddar for mozzarella, gouda, or pepper jack for different flavor combinations.
- → How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven for the best results.
- → What can I serve with these bombs?
Serve them with extra BBQ sauce, ranch dressing, or a light side salad to complement their flavors.
- → Can I freeze them?
Yes, freeze unbaked bombs on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen and add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.