Cheddar-Stuffed BBQ Bacon Bombs – The Ultimate Cheesy Grilled Appetizer

Looking for the perfect crowd-pleasing appetizer for game day, backyard BBQs, or family gatherings? These Cheddar-Stuffed BBQ Bacon Bombs are smoky, cheesy, and packed with bold flavor in every bite. Made with seasoned ground beef, gooey cheddar cheese, crispy bacon, and tangy BBQ sauce, this easy recipe is guaranteed to impress.

Whether you grill them outdoors or bake them in the oven, these bacon bombs are juicy on the inside and crispy on the outside — the ultimate American comfort food appetizer.

Why You’ll Love These Cheddar-Stuffed BBQ Bacon Bombs

✅ Loaded with melted cheddar cheese
✅ Wrapped in crispy bacon
✅ Perfect for grilling or baking
✅ Great for parties and tailgating
✅ Keto-friendly and low-carb option

If you love bacon cheeseburgers and BBQ flavors, this recipe combines both into one irresistible bite-sized dish.

Ingredients for Cheddar-Stuffed BBQ Bacon Bombs

1½ lbs ground beef (80/20 recommended)
6 oz sharp cheddar cheese, cut into cubes
12 slices thick-cut bacon
½ cup BBQ sauce (plus extra for brushing)
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
½ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
Toothpicks (for securing bacon)

How to Make Cheddar-Stuffed BBQ Bacon Bombs

Step 1: Prepare the Beef Mixture

In a large bowl, combine ground beef, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, pepper, Worcestershire sauce, and ¼ cup BBQ sauce. Mix gently until just combined.

Step 2: Stuff with Cheddar

Divide the beef mixture into 10–12 equal portions. Flatten each portion in your hand, place a cube of cheddar cheese in the center, and wrap the beef around the cheese to form a sealed ball.

Step 3: Wrap with Bacon

Wrap each beef ball with one slice of bacon, securing with a toothpick if needed.

Step 4: Cook the Bacon Bombs

Grill Method:
Preheat grill to medium heat (about 375°F). Place bacon bombs on indirect heat. Cook for 20–25 minutes, turning occasionally, until bacon is crispy and internal temperature reaches 160°F.

Oven Method:
Preheat oven to 400°F. Place bacon bombs on a wire rack over a baking sheet. Bake for 25–30 minutes until fully cooked.

Step 5: Brush with BBQ Sauce

During the last 5 minutes of cooking, brush with additional BBQ sauce for a sticky, caramelized glaze.

Step 6: Rest and Serve

Let rest for 5 minutes before serving. This helps keep the cheese inside nice and gooey.

Tips for Perfect BBQ Bacon Bombs

Use cold cheese cubes to prevent early melting.
Seal the beef tightly around the cheese to avoid leaks.
Choose thick-cut bacon for better wrapping and crispiness.
Cook over indirect heat to prevent flare-ups on the grill.

Flavor Variations

Swap cheddar for pepper jack for a spicy kick.
Add diced jalapeños inside for extra heat.
Use a smoky or honey BBQ sauce for different flavor profiles.
Sprinkle with brown sugar before cooking for sweet heat.

What to Serve with BBQ Bacon Bombs

Pair these cheesy bacon bombs with:

Coleslaw
Baked beans
Potato salad
Cornbread
Pickles

They’re perfect as a party appetizer or even served as a main dish.

Storage & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Reheat in the oven at 350°F for best texture.
Can be frozen (uncooked or cooked) for up to 2 months.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make bacon bombs ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble them up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate until ready to cook.

How do I keep the cheese from leaking out?

Make sure the beef completely seals around the cheese cube before wrapping in bacon.

Can I air fry bacon bombs?

Yes! Cook at 375°F for 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Final Thoughts

These Cheddar-Stuffed BBQ Bacon Bombs are the ultimate cheesy, smoky, and satisfying appetizer. Perfect for American BBQ lovers, this easy bacon-wrapped recipe delivers bold flavor with simple ingredients.

Fire up the grill and make these irresistible BBQ bacon bombs for your next gathering — they’ll disappear fast!

Cheddar-Stuffed BBQ Bacon Bombs