Here’s a Cheesy Meatballs with Bacon recipe that’s packed with flavor! These meatballs are made with a combination of ground beef, cheese, and crispy bacon, creating a deliciously indulgent dish that’s perfect for dinner or a party appetizer.
Ingredients:
For the Meatballs:
- 1 lb ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork for added flavor)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (preferably Italian breadcrumbs)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 large egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp dried basil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2-3 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled (for extra flavor)
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
For the Sauce (Optional):
- 1 cup marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Bacon:
- Cook the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from the pan and place on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess grease. Once cooled, crumble the bacon into small pieces.
2. Make the Meatballs:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, shredded mozzarella, egg, minced garlic, oregano, basil, and crumbled bacon.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Mix everything together until well combined, but be careful not to overwork the mixture, as it can make the meatballs tough.
3. Shape the Meatballs:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Roll the meat mixture into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter, and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or lightly greased.
4. Bake the Meatballs:
- Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 160°F / 71°C).
5. Make the Sauce (Optional):
- While the meatballs are baking, heat the olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, until fragrant.
- Pour in the marinara sauce and simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. If you like a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
6. Serve:
- Once the meatballs are cooked, serve them hot with the marinara sauce (if using), garnished with fresh parsley.
- These meatballs are delicious on their own or served over pasta, in a sub sandwich, or as an appetizer with toothpicks.
Tips:
- Cheese Variations: Try adding different cheeses to the meatballs like provolone or cheddar for added flavor.
- Make Ahead: You can make these meatballs in advance and store them in the fridge for up to 2 days or freeze them for longer storage.
- Crispier Bacon: For extra crispy bacon, bake it in the oven rather than frying.
These Cheesy Meatballs with Bacon are the ultimate comfort food — cheesy, savory, and packed with smoky bacon goodness. Enjoy!