Prepare to embark on a flavor-packed adventure with these Double Smoked BBQ Bacon-Wrapped Meatballs! As Chef Savori, I’m thrilled to guide you through this epic recipe that promises cozy comfort, bold smokiness, and a truly craveable experience. Get ready to impress your guests and satisfy your deepest barbecue cravings.
Why You’ll Love This Double Smoked BBQ Bacon-Wrapped Meatballs
These meatballs are a true testament to the power of layered flavors. The juicy, tender meatballs are infused with a smoky, zesty BBQ seasoning, then wrapped in crispy, golden bacon for an indulgent, melty delight. The double-smoked technique, featuring both grilled and oven-baked steps, takes this dish to new heights of flavor and texture. Prepare for a warm, satisfying, and truly memorable dining experience that will have your guests raving.
Ingredients
To create these Double Smoked BBQ Bacon-Wrapped Meatballs, you’ll need a carefully curated selection of ingredients that come together in perfect harmony. Ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, and a blend of aromatic spices form the base of the meatballs, while thick-cut bacon and a homemade BBQ sauce add the signature smokiness and zest.
- 1 lb – Ground Beef
- 1 cup – Panko Breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup – Grated Parmesan Cheese
- 2 tsp – Garlic Powder
- 1 tsp – Smoked Paprika
Ingredient Substitutions
- Ground Beef: Ground Turkey or Chicken (for a leaner option)
- Panko Breadcrumbs: Gluten-free Breadcrumbs (dietary swap)
How to Make Double Smoked BBQ Bacon-Wrapped Meatballs
Begin by preheating your grill or smoker to medium-high heat. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Gently mix the ingredients until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
Step 1: Prep Work
Roll the meat mixture into 1-inch meatballs and wrap each one in a strip of bacon, securing the bacon with toothpicks. Place the bacon-wrapped meatballs directly on the grill grates and smoke for 20-25 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the meatballs are cooked through.
Step 2: Main Cooking Process
Preheat your oven to 400°F. Transfer the grilled meatballs to a baking sheet and brush them generously with the homemade BBQ sauce. Bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the sauce has caramelized and the meatballs are sizzling.
Step 3: Final Steps/Assembly
Remove the toothpicks and serve the Double Smoked BBQ Bacon-Wrapped Meatballs hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley or scallions for a pop of color and freshness.
Step 4: Finishing Touches
Recipe Variations & Tips
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the meatball mixture.
- Cheese-Stuffed: Stuff the meatballs with cubes of cheddar or pepper jack cheese before wrapping in bacon.
- Saucy Approach: Reserve some of the BBQ sauce for dipping.
- Baking Option: If you don’t have a grill or smoker, bake the bacon-wrapped meatballs in the oven at 400°F for 25-30 minutes.
Serving & Storage
Serve with: Fresh parsley or scallions.
Storage: Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Reheat: In the oven or microwave until hot and sizzling.
Make-Ahead: Prepare the meatballs and wrap in bacon up to 24 hours in advance.
Nutrition Information
These Double Smoked BBQ Bacon-Wrapped Meatballs provide a hearty dose of protein, with a balance of savory, smoky, and zesty flavors. While they’re an indulgent treat, the recipe can be adjusted to accommodate various dietary needs, such as using leaner meats or reducing the amount of bacon.
- Serving Size: 3 meatballs
- Calories: 430 kcal
- Protein: 27 g
- Carbs: 15 g
- Fat: 27 g
- Sodium: 810 mg
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these meatballs in advance?
Yes! You can prepare the meatball mixture and wrap them in bacon up to 24 hours in advance. Simply cover and refrigerate until ready to grill and bake.
How do I ensure the meatballs are cooked through?
Using a meat thermometer is the best way to ensure the meatballs are cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F. This will result in juicy, tender meatballs every time.
Can I bake these meatballs instead of grilling?
Absolutely! If you don’t have access to a grill or smoker, you can bake the bacon-wrapped meatballs in the oven at 400°F for 25-30 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the meatballs are cooked through.
How can I make these meatballs gluten-free?
To make these meatballs gluten-free, simply swap the regular breadcrumbs for gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers.
Can I freeze these meatballs?
Yes, these Double Smoked BBQ Bacon-Wrapped Meatballs freeze beautifully. After cooking, allow them to cool completely, then place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag and store for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave when ready to serve.
Try These Next
- Smoky Bbq Bacon Wrapped Meatloaf
- Bbq Bacon Smoked Brisket Sliders With Tangy Slaw
- Smoky Bbq Bacon Wrapped Chicken Skewers
Double Smoked BBQ Bacon-Wrapped Meatballs
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Total Time: 75 minutes
- Yield: 4–6 servings 1x
- Category: 🔥 BBQ, Grilling & Smokehouse
- Method: Smoking/Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Double Smoked BBQ Bacon-Wrapped Meatballs are the ultimate BBQ treat! Juicy meatballs wrapped in crispy bacon and infused with rich smoky flavors. Perfect for your next grilling session!
Ingredients
1 pound ground beef
1 pound ground pork
1 cup breadcrumbs
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 large eggs
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 tablespoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 cup BBQ sauce
1 pound bacon, cut in half
Instructions
1. Preheat your smoker or grill to 225°F (107°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, eggs, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix until well combined.
3. Form the mixture into meatballs, about 1.5 inches in diameter.
4. Wrap each meatball with a half slice of bacon and secure with a toothpick if needed.
5. Place the bacon-wrapped meatballs on the smoker or grill grates.
6. Brush the meatballs with BBQ sauce and smoke for about 1 hour or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
7. Remove from the smoker and let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy!
Notes
Feel free to customize the spices in the meatball mixture to suit your taste. You can also use different types of BBQ sauce for varying flavors.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 meatball
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
Keywords: meatballs, BBQ, bacon, smoked, grilling