Cheddar-Stuffed BBQ Bacon Bombs (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ For the Bacon Bombs

01 - 1 lb ground beef (80/20 or lean)
02 - 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
03 - 1 large egg
04 - 1/4 cup BBQ sauce (plus extra for brushing)
05 - 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
06 - 1/2 tsp salt
07 - 1/2 tsp black pepper
08 - 1/2 tsp garlic powder
09 - 1/2 tsp onion powder
10 - 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
11 - 4 oz cheddar cheese (cut into small cubes)
12 - 12 slices bacon (cut in half)

# Instructions:

01 - In a large bowl, mix together ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, BBQ sauce, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika until well combined. Divide the mixture into 12 equal portions.
02 - Take each portion of meat and flatten it in your palm. Place a small cube of cheddar cheese in the center, then wrap the meat around the cheese, forming a sealed ball. Make sure the cheese is completely enclosed to prevent leaking. Wrap each meatball with a half-slice of bacon, securing with a toothpick if needed.
03 - Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Place bacon bombs on a lined baking sheet with a wire rack for better air circulation. Bake for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through cooking. In the last 5 minutes, brush with extra BBQ sauce for a caramelized finish.
04 - Preheat grill to medium heat (375-400°F). Place bacon bombs on the grill and cook for 20-25 minutes, turning every 5 minutes to ensure even cooking and crispy bacon. Brush with BBQ sauce in the last 5 minutes of cooking.
05 - Preheat air fryer to 375°F. Arrange bacon bombs in the basket, being careful not to overcrowd them. Air fry for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through. Brush with BBQ sauce and air fry for 2 more minutes until caramelized.
06 - Let the bacon bombs cool for a few minutes before serving. Serve with extra BBQ sauce for dipping. Remove any toothpicks before eating!

# Notes:

01 - For a spicy version, add 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper to the meat mixture or use pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar.
02 - The internal temperature should reach 160°F (71°C) for ground beef to be safely cooked.
03 - These can be made into mini versions using 1 tablespoon of meat mixture for bite-sized appetizers.

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