Bacon Cheeseburger Balls
Savory bacon cheeseburger balls combine juicy beef, crispy bacon, and melted cheddar for a flavorful appetizer or snack perfect for gatherings or casual meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a bowl, combine egg and onion soup mix. Crumble ground beef over the mixture and mix well. Divide into 36 portions and set aside.
- In a separate bowl, combine flour and milk until smooth. Add shredded cheddar cheese and crumbled bacon; mix well.
- Shape the cheese mixture into 36 balls.
- Wrap each cheese ball with one beef portion, forming a meatball.
- In a shallow bowl, beat the eggs. Place crushed saltines in another bowl.
- Dip each meatball into the beaten eggs, then coat with crushed saltines.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the coated meatballs in vegetable oil for 10-12 minutes, until the meat is no longer pink and the coating is golden brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For a flavor boost, consider adding garlic powder or Worcestershire sauce to the beef mixture. If you're short on time, pre-cooked bacon can be used, and shredded mozzarella can substitute for cheddar. Ensure the meatballs are evenly sized for consistent cooking, and avoid overcrowding the skillet to achieve a nice golden crust.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these flavorful meatballs with a side of dipping sauces like ranch or barbecue for added enjoyment. They make a great appetizer for gatherings or pair well with a fresh salad or fries for a complete meal. For a hearty dish, consider serving them alongside the Hunters Casserole.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Bacon Cheeseburger Balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through. For a quicker option, microwave in short intervals until heated.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Bacon Cheeseburger Balls contains roughly 373 calories, with 14g protein, 38g carbohydrates, and 18g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (28% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and calcium.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I freeze Bacon Cheeseburger Balls?
Yes, you can freeze the uncooked meatballs. Arrange them on a baking sheet and freeze until firm, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. When ready to cook, bake from frozen, extending the cooking time slightly.
How do I know when the meatballs are fully cooked?
The meatballs should be cooked until they reach an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C). Use a meat thermometer to check. They should also be browned on the outside and no longer pink in the center.
What can I use instead of crushed saltines?
If you don't have crushed saltines, you can substitute with breadcrumbs or panko for a similar texture. You can also use crushed cornflakes for a gluten-free option, ensuring a crunchy coating.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).