Thanksgiving Bacon Cheeseburger Meatballs Recipe: A Savory Holiday Twist

Looking to add a fun and savory twist to your Thanksgiving menu? These Thanksgiving Bacon Cheeseburger Meatballs might be just what you need! Combining the best of comfort food with the holiday spirit, these meatballs are packed with juicy ground beef, crispy bacon, and rich cheese. Whether you serve them as an appetizer or alongside your main dishes, they’re sure to be a crowd-pleaser!

Photo byTime of Recipes

I came across this delightful recipe on the Time of Recipes Facebook Group and knew I had to share it with you. If you’re looking for a dish that combines classic flavors with a festive touch, follow along for the details!

A Little Backstory

Meatballs are a classic crowd favorite, known for their versatility and endless variations. This particular version merges the flavors of a cheeseburger—ground beef, cheddar, and a touch of bacon—into bite-sized delights perfect for the holiday season. Imagine the delight of your guests as they savor each juicy, cheesy bite, bringing a familiar taste with a Thanksgiving twist.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• 6 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1 large egg
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• Cooking spray or oil (for greasing)

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray.
2. Prepare the Meatball Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, crumbled bacon, breadcrumbs, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, chopped onion, milk, egg, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix until just combined—be careful not to overmix, as it can make the meatballs tough.
3. Form the Meatballs: Use your hands to shape the mixture into 1-inch meatballs. Place them evenly spaced on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Bake the Meatballs: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the meatballs are cooked through and reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
5. Serve: Serve the Thanksgiving Bacon Cheeseburger Meatballs warm, alongside your favorite dips like ketchup, mustard, or even a cranberry sauce for a festive twist. Enjoy with family and friends as part of your holiday spread!

Pro Tips for the Best Meatballs

• Avoid Overmixing: Mixing the ingredients too much can make the meatballs dense. Combine just until everything is evenly incorporated.
• Perfectly Sized Meatballs: Using a small ice cream scoop can help you portion out evenly-sized meatballs, ensuring they cook uniformly.
• Make Ahead: You can prepare these meatballs a day ahead and refrigerate them. Simply reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes before serving.

These Thanksgiving Bacon Cheeseburger Meatballs are a delightful way to add a little creativity to your holiday menu. They are sure to become a new favorite, blending the familiar flavors of a cheeseburger with the comforting warmth of Thanksgiving.

Did you enjoy this recipe? Let me know in the comments below! Don’t forget to share it with friends and follow me for more delicious holiday recipes. Happy cooking, and happy Thanksgiving!