Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup bourbon
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup cooked and crumbled bacon
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Feel free to substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version, or swap out cheddar for your favorite type of cheese. The versatility of this recipe is one of its greatest strengths, allowing you to tailor it to your personal taste or dietary needs.
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, bourbon, BBQ sauce, shredded cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, and egg.
- Add the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until well combined. Remember, as my abuela always said, the best mixing tool is your hands!
- Roll the mixture into 1-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between each meatball.
- Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they are cooked through and have a nice, golden brown color.
- Once out of the oven, let them rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps the flavors settle and makes for a juicier bite.
For an extra kick, brush some additional BBQ sauce on the meatballs during the last 5 minutes of baking. It adds a glossy finish and enhances the flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: International