These bacon-crusted meatball bites are an easy snack for parties, holidays, and casual get-togethers. I also like to take them along as a game-day snack and at parties and potlucks. They are quick and easy to make and only require a handful of ingredients. In fact, you may already have them available in your pantry.
All you need are meatballs, bacon, and BBQ sauce to make these bite-sized appetizers. They’re great for a party, game day, or when you want to switch things up from the usual appetizers.
How to Make Bacon Crusted Meatball Bites
INGREDIENTS:
- 15 bite-sized meatballs, frozen
- 5 strips of bacon
- 3 tbsp smoky BBQ sauce
- Fresh parsley leaves, finely chopped
- 15 toothpicks
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cut each bacon strip into three pieces. Each piece should be large enough to wrap around a meatball. Now securely wrap the bacon around each meatball. Arrange them seam-side down on the baking tray so they stay in place while you prepare the rest.
2. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
3. Bake for 15 minutes, or until the bacon is crisp and golden. If needed, bake for another 5 minutes.
4. Carefully remove the baking dish from the oven and brush the meatballs generously with BBQ sauce.
5. Return to the oven and bake for another 10 minutes, until the sauce heats through and starts to caramelize.
6. Insert a toothpick into each meatball, then sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley.
Ready to Serve & Devour!
These meatballs are delicious on their own, but I like to serve them with extra BBQ sauce on the side. You can also serve them with a crisp salad, creamy coleslaw, mayo, or lightly grilled vegetables.
Important Recipe Notes:
- Choose thick-cut bacon: It wraps securely around the meatballs and gives a great texture after baking.
- Use a beef-and-pork blend: Combining ground beef and pork creates meatballs that are juicier and more tender.
- Don’t wrap the bacon too tightly: Leave a little room for it to shrink as it cooks.
- Go for a sweet BBQ sauce: A sweeter BBQ sauce works well with the salty bacon and caramelizes nicely in the oven.
- Make them ahead: If you plan to serve later, assemble and refrigerate the meatballs in advance. Bake right before serving for a crispy bite.
Bacon Crusted Meatball Bites
Ingredients
Method
- Cut each bacon strip into thirds and wrap one piece around each meatball. Place them seam-side down on a baking tray.
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Bake for 15 minutes until the bacon is crisp. If needed, bake for another 5 minutes.
- Remove from the oven and brush each meatball generously with BBQ sauce.
- Bake for another 10 minutes, until the sauce is hot and slightly caramelized.
- Insert a toothpick into each meatball and garnish with chopped parsley before serving.