Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatballs

These Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatballs are a delicious twist on classic comfort food. With all the tasty flavors of a cheeseburger, these meatballs offer a low-carb option perfect for weeknight dinners or game day gatherings. Whether you serve them as an appetizer or a main dish, their juicy goodness and cheesy surprise in the center will surely impress everyone at your table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Low-Carb Delight: Enjoy the flavors of a cheeseburger without the carbs, making it suitable for various dietary needs.
• Quick and Easy: These meatballs are straightforward to prepare, making them perfect for busy weeknights.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve them hot with dipping sauces or as a side dish; they adapt to any occasion.
• Cheesy Surprise: Each meatball features gooey cheese inside, elevating the flavor experience beyond ordinary meatballs.
• Makes Great Leftovers: They reheat well, ensuring you have tasty meals ready for days to come.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your essential tools. Having everything ready will make preparing these Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatballs a breeze.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Grill pan
• Measuring cups
• Plastic wrap
• Instant-read meat thermometer (optional)

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: Essential for combining all ingredients evenly without making a mess.
• Grill pan: Provides even heat distribution for perfect cooking while keeping meatballs juicy.
• Instant-read meat thermometer: Helps ensure your meatballs are cooked thoroughly, providing safety and peace of mind.

Ingredients

These low-carb Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatballs have all the comfort food appeal of grilled Turkey Bacon cheeseburgers, without the carbs!

• 1 lb. lean ground beef
• 2 tsp. steak seasoning (see notes)
• 1/2 tsp. fresh-ground black pepper
• 1 egg
• 6 slices Turkey Bacon, crumbled (see notes)
• 1/4 cup chopped dill pickle (see notes)
• 4 oz. Swiss cheese, cut into very small cubes (or use other cheese of your choice)
• Olive oil for brushing meatballs

How to Make Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatballs

Step 1: Prepare the Beef Mixture

1. Crumble the beef into a plastic bowl and sprinkle with steak seasoning and black pepper; add the egg.
2. Mix until just combined; avoid over-mixing to keep the meatballs tender.

Step 2: Add Flavorful Ingredients

1. Crisp the Turkey Bacon in a pan until golden brown; set aside.
2. Dice dill pickles and cut Swiss cheese into small cubes.

Step 3: Combine Everything

1. Add crumbled Turkey Bacon, diced pickles, and cheese cubes to the beef mixture.
2. Using your hands, gently combine all ingredients until evenly mixed.

Step 4: Form Meatballs

1. Use a 1/4 cup measuring cup to scoop out portions of the beef mixture.
2. Shape each portion into a meatball around one or two cheese cubes.

Step 5: Chill Before Cooking

1. Place formed meatballs on a baking sheet lined with plastic wrap.
2. Refrigerate for 30-40 minutes to help them maintain their shape while grilling.

Step 6: Preheat Your Grill Pan

1. Heat your grill pan on medium-high heat while preheating your grill.
2. Brush each meatball lightly with olive oil to prevent sticking.

Step 7: Cook the Meatballs

1. Place meatballs on the grilling pan; cook for about 15 minutes.
2. Turn every 2 minutes until browned on all sides.

Step 8: Check for Doneness

Check internal temperature using an instant-read thermometer; it should reach at least 160F/70C.

Step 9: Serve

Serve hot with dipping sauce if desired and enjoy!

These flavorful Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatballs are sure to be a hit at any meal!

How to Serve Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatballs

Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatballs are versatile and can be served in various delightful ways. Whether you’re hosting a party or enjoying a casual family dinner, these meatballs can elevate your meal.

As an Appetizer

• Serve warm with toothpicks for easy snacking.
• Pair with a variety of dipping sauces like barbecue, ranch, or spicy mayo.

In a Slider

• Place meatballs in small burger buns for delicious sliders.
• Add toppings such as lettuce, tomato, and pickles for extra flavor.

Over Salad

• Serve meatballs on a bed of mixed greens.
• Drizzle with a light vinaigrette for a refreshing meal.

With Zoodles

• Serve over zucchini noodles (zoodles) for a low-carb option.
• Top with marinara sauce and parmesan cheese for added taste.

On Skewers

• Thread cooked meatballs onto skewers with bell peppers and onions.
• Grill briefly for a smoky flavor and serve as finger food.

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How to Perfect Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatballs

To achieve the best Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatballs, follow these key tips that will enhance texture and flavor.

• Use lean ground beef: This keeps the meatballs moist while reducing excess fat.
• Don’t over-mix: Gently combine ingredients to maintain tenderness in each meatball.
• Chill before cooking: Allowing the meatballs to chill helps them hold their shape during grilling.
• Check internal temperature: Aim for 160°F (71°C) to ensure the meat is fully cooked without drying out.
• Experiment with cheeses: Try using different cheeses like cheddar or pepper jack for varied flavors.
• Customize seasonings: Feel free to add garlic powder or onion powder to enhance the taste profile.

Best Side Dishes for Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatballs

Pairing side dishes with Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatballs can enhance your meal experience. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Sweet Potato Fries: These crispy fries provide a sweet contrast to savory meatballs. Bake or fry until golden brown.
2. Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw adds freshness and balances the richness of the meatballs. Prepare it with tangy dressing for extra zing.
3. Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus complement the flavors nicely when grilled.
4. Cauliflower Mash: A creamy cauliflower mash offers a low-carb alternative to traditional mashed potatoes.
5. Quinoa Salad: Light and nutritious, quinoa salad adds fiber and protein while being very filling.
6. Corn on the Cob: Grilled corn brings sweetness and makes a fun side dish perfect for summer barbecues.
7. Baked Beans: Sweet baked beans provide a hearty side that pairs well with the savory flavors of the meatballs.
8. Macaroni Salad: A cold macaroni salad is refreshing and makes an excellent addition to any meal featuring grilled items.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatballs can be simple, but there are a few common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Overmixing the Ingredients: Mixing the meat too much can result in tough meatballs. Gently combine everything to keep them tender.
• Skipping the Chilling Step: If you don’t chill the meatballs, they may fall apart on the grill. Always refrigerate them for at least 30 minutes.
• Not Checking Doneness: Failing to check if your meatballs are fully cooked can lead to undercooked food. Use a meat thermometer for accurate results.
• Ignoring Seasoning Variations: Relying on only one type of seasoning can limit flavor. Experiment with different herbs and spices for a unique taste.
• Using Low-Quality Bacon: Cheap turkey bacon can lack flavor and texture. Choose high-quality brands to enhance your meatballs.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatballs in an airtight container.
• They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatballs

• Place cooled meatballs in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• They can last in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Reheating Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatballs

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Arrange meatballs on a baking sheet and heat for about 15 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place meatballs on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes or until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of water, cover, and steam for about 5 minutes until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatballs.

How do I make Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatballs gluten-free?

You can use gluten-free seasoning blends and ensure any additional ingredients like pickles are also gluten-free.

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes! Ground turkey is a great alternative if you want a lighter version of Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatballs.

What dipping sauces pair well with these meatballs?

Ketchup, mustard, or even a spicy mayo complement Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatballs perfectly!

How can I customize my Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatballs?

Feel free to add different cheeses, spices, or even chopped vegetables to tailor the flavors to your liking.

Can I bake these instead of grilling?

Absolutely! Baking them at 400°F (200°C) for about 25 minutes will yield delicious results as well.

Final Thoughts

Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatballs are not only flavorful but also versatile! You can customize them with various cheeses and seasonings to match your taste preferences. Perfect as an appetizer or main dish, these delicious meatballs will surely be a hit at any gathering. Give this recipe a try and enjoy every bite!