Spicy Cranberry BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatballs Recipe – Sweet, Savory, and Irresistible

Imagine the juicy goodness of a classic cheeseburger, but in a bite-sized, flavorful form! These Spicy Cranberry BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatballs are the perfect blend of smoky, sweet, and savory, making them the ultimate crowd-pleaser. Whether you're hosting a game night or just craving a unique twist on meatballs, this recipe will not disappoint.

Photo byTime of Recipes

I discovered this mouthwatering recipe on the Time of Recipes Facebook Group, and I'm thrilled to share it with you! Be sure to join the group for more incredible recipes like this one.

A Little Backstory

These meatballs are a fusion of flavors that bring together the comfort of a cheeseburger and the unexpected tang of cranberry sauce. The BBQ sauce adds a sweet and smoky layer, while the bacon delivers that unmistakable savory bite. This dish quickly became a go-to in my kitchen, especially during the holidays when cranberry sauce is abundant. The combination of these ingredients creates a flavor explosion in every bite!

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 cup cooked bacon, crumbled
• 1/2 cup cranberry sauce
• 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Directions

Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

Prepare the Meatball Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix until just combined to avoid overworking the meat.

Add the Bacon:
Fold in the crumbled bacon gently, making sure it’s evenly spread throughout the mixture.

Form the Meatballs:
Using your hands, shape the mixture into 1-inch meatballs. Arrange them on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each for even cooking.

Bake:
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the meatballs are browned and cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).

Prepare the Sauce:
As the meatballs bake, combine the cranberry sauce and BBQ sauce in a small saucepan. Warm over medium heat, stirring until smooth and heated through.

Glaze the Meatballs:
After the meatballs are done, remove them from the oven. Drizzle the warm cranberry BBQ sauce over each meatball, then sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top. Return them to the oven for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the cheese to melt beautifully.

Serve:
Serve your Spicy Cranberry BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatballs hot, and garnish with fresh parsley if desired. These are perfect for any occasion, from holiday gatherings to a simple weeknight treat.

Cooking Tips

• Make It Spicier: For those who love extra heat, add a teaspoon of chili powder or a few dashes of hot sauce to the cranberry BBQ mixture.
• Vegetarian Variation: Swap out the ground beef for a plant-based meat substitute, and use vegan cheddar for a veggie-friendly version.
• Perfect Pairings: Serve these meatballs with crispy potato wedges, coleslaw, or a fresh green salad to balance the richness.

Final Thoughts

If you loved this recipe, let me know in the comments! Don’t forget to hit that follow button for more delicious recipes. Share this recipe with friends and family, and let them enjoy this unique twist on classic meatballs. Happy cooking!