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Bacon Wrapped BBQ Meatball Skewers

DishCharm
A crowd-pleasing appetizer featuring smoky bacon-wrapped meatballs glazed with a sweet and tangy BBQ sauce. Perfect for parties, game days, or casual gatherings, these skewers combine bold flavors with easy preparation and presentation.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Course Appetizer
Cuisine American
Servings 12 skewers (36–45 meatballs)
Calories 150 kcal

Equipment

  • 1 Baking Sheet Lined with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
  • 1 Grill or smoker Optional for grilling or smoking instead of baking.
  • 1 Wooden skewers Soak in water for 30 minutes before use to prevent burning.
  • Optional Slow cooker or chafing dish For keeping skewers warm during serving.

Ingredients
  

For the Meatballs

  • 1 lb Ground beef Ground turkey or chicken can be substituted for a lighter option.
  • ½ cup Breadcrumbs Gluten-free breadcrumbs work as a substitute.
  • ¼ cup Grated Parmesan cheese Adds flavor and moisture.
  • 1 large Egg Acts as a binder.
  • 1 tsp Garlic powder Enhances savory depth.
  • 1 tsp Onion powder Complements garlic powder.
  • 1 tsp Dried parsley Fresh parsley can be used for brighter flavor.
  • ½ tsp Salt Adjust to taste.
  • ¼ tsp Black pepper Freshly ground preferred.

For Wrapping and Glazing

  • 12–15 slices Thick-cut bacon Cut each slice in half for easier wrapping.
  • 1 cup BBQ sauce Sweet and tangy BBQ sauce works best.
  • 2 tbsp Brown sugar Adds sweetness and helps caramelize the glaze.
  • 1 tsp Smoked paprika Adds mild smokiness.
  • Optional Chili powder For a spicy kick; adjust to taste.

Instructions
 

Step-by-Step Recipe

    Preparing and Wrapping the Meatballs:

    • Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
    • In a mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined; avoid overmixing.
    • Form the mixture into 1-inch meatballs (about 36–45 meatballs total).
    • Wrap each meatball tightly with a half-slice of bacon, securing it with a toothpick if needed.

    Skewering Techniques for Even Cooking:

    • Thread 3–4 bacon-wrapped meatballs onto each soaked wooden skewer, leaving space between them for even cooking.
    • Arrange the skewers on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they do not touch.

    Oven, Grill, and Smoker Methods:

    • Oven Method: Bake for 25–30 minutes, turning halfway through, until the bacon is crispy and the meatballs reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
    • Grill Method: Cook over medium heat (about 350°F) for 10–15 minutes, turning frequently for even browning.
    • Smoker Method: Smoke at 275°F (135°C) for 45–60 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the meatballs are cooked through.

    Applying the BBQ Glaze:

    • In a small bowl, mix BBQ sauce, brown sugar, and smoked paprika.
    • During the last 5–10 minutes of cooking, brush the glaze generously over the skewers. Return to heat to set the glaze.

    Serving:

    • Arrange the skewers on a platter. Garnish with chopped parsley, green onions, or a sprinkle of smoked paprika. Serve with extra BBQ sauce or dipping sauces on the side.

    Notes

    • Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10–15 minutes to restore crispiness.
    • Freezing: Freeze uncooked skewers on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. Cook directly from frozen, adding 5–10 minutes to the cooking time.
    • Substitutions: Use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. Swap BBQ sauce for teriyaki or honey mustard for a different flavor profile.
     
     

    Frequently Asked Questions

    1. How do I prevent the bacon from falling off the skewers during cooking?
      • Wrap the bacon tightly around the meatballs and secure with a toothpick before skewering. Avoid overlapping bacon slices for better adhesion.
       
    2. What side dishes complement bacon-wrapped BBQ meatball skewers?
      • Coleslaw, corn on the cob, baked beans, or grilled vegetables pair well. Classic potato salad or mac and cheese are also great options.
       
    3. Can you suggest a good dipping sauce for bacon-wrapped meatball skewers?
      • Tangy BBQ sauce, ranch dressing, honey mustard, or sriracha mayo work well.
       
    4. What types of meatballs are best for making bacon-wrapped skewers?
      • Ground beef is ideal for its rich flavor, but ground turkey or chicken can be substituted. Adding Parmesan and herbs enhances moisture and taste.
       
    5. Is it necessary to pre-cook the bacon before wrapping it around meatballs?
      • Pre-cooking is optional but helps reduce cooking time and ensures crispier bacon. If not pre-cooked, ensure the skewers bake long enough for the bacon to fully cook.
       
    6. How do I keep the bacon wrapped BBQ meatball skewers moist while cooking?
      • Avoid overmixing the meatball mixture. Brush with BBQ sauce during the last few minutes of cooking to add moisture and flavor.
     
     

    Tips & Tricks

    • Flavor Enhancement: Add finely diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes to the meatball mixture for a spicy kick. Toast sesame seeds and sprinkle them on top for added texture.
    • Presentation: Arrange skewers on a platter with fresh garnishes like parsley or cilantro. Include small bowls of dipping sauces for variety.
    • Leftovers: Use leftover meatballs in sandwiches, wraps, or salads. Pair with a drizzle of BBQ sauce for a quick meal.
     
     

    Plating and Garnishing

    • Garnish: Sprinkle chopped parsley, green onions, or smoked paprika over the skewers for freshness and color.
    • Serving Style: Serve the skewers upright in a shallow tray or arranged neatly on a platter. Include dipping sauces like BBQ, ranch, or honey mustard for variety.
    • Pairings: Pair with coleslaw, grilled vegetables, or baked beans for a balanced meal.
    Keyword Bacon Wrapped Meatballs, BBQ Skewers, Game Day Snacks