Sink your teeth into these Bacon Cheddar Onion Bombs and get ready for a flavor explosion! These meaty, cheesy, smoky bites are the ultimate comfort food and perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something hearty and deeply satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen. Wrapped in crispy bacon, filled with gooey cheddar, and nestled inside tender onion layers, theyโre bold, savory, and utterly crave-worthy.
Why Youโll Love This Recipe
- Incredibly Flavorful: Every bite delivers melty cheese, juicy meat, and smoky bacon wrapped in tender onion. It’s pure bliss!
- Quick Prep: A few simple steps and you’re on your way to a drool-worthy dinner or appetizer.
- Perfect for Weeknights or Parties: Whether you’re feeding the family or hosting game night, these bombs are guaranteed to disappear fast.
- Customizable: Easily switch up ingredients based on what you have on hand.
Ingredients Youโll Need
Bacon Cheddar Onion Bombs Recipe
Sink your teeth into these Bacon Cheddar Onion Bombs and get ready for a flavor explosion! These meaty, cheesy, smoky bites are the ultimate comfort food and perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something hearty and deeply satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen. Wrapped in crispy bacon, filled with gooey cheddar, and nestled inside tender onion layers, theyโre bold, savory, and utterly crave-worthy.
Why Youโll Love This Recipe
- Incredibly Flavorful: Every bite delivers melty cheese, juicy meat, and smoky bacon wrapped in tender onion. It’s pure bliss!
- Quick Prep: A few simple steps and you’re on your way to a drool-worthy dinner or appetizer.
- Perfect for Weeknights or Parties: Whether you’re feeding the family or hosting game night, these bombs are guaranteed to disappear fast.
- Customizable: Easily switch up ingredients based on what you have on hand.
Ingredients Youโll Need
- Onions: Large, firm onions work best; they create perfect little bowls for the filling.
- Ground beef: The hearty base of the filling; choose 80/20 for flavor and moisture.
- Cheddar cheese: Sharp cheddar is ideal for its bold flavor and meltiness.
- Bacon: Thin-cut bacon crisps up beautifully in the oven or on the grill.
- Breadcrumbs: Helps bind the filling and adds a touch of texture.
- Egg: Acts as a binder for the meat mixture.
- Garlic and onion powder: Adds a depth of flavor without overpowering.
- Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning.
- BBQ sauce: Optional, but brushing some on before baking or grilling adds a tangy glaze.
Variations
- Spicy Kick: Mix chopped jalapeรฑos or a pinch of cayenne into the beef mixture.
- Different Cheeses: Try pepper jack, mozzarella, or smoked gouda.
- Pork or Turkey: Swap ground beef for ground pork or ground turkey.
- Low Carb: Skip the breadcrumbs and use almond flour or crushed pork rinds.
How to Make Bacon Cheddar Onion Bombs
Step 1: Prep the Onions
Peel the onions and slice them in half vertically. Separate them into matching layers, keeping the larger ones for stuffing.
Step 2: Make the Filling
In a bowl, combine ground beef, shredded cheddar, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined.
Step 3: Assemble the Bombs
Take two matching onion halves and stuff them with a scoop of the beef mixture in between. Press gently to form a bomb.
Step 4: Wrap with Bacon
Wrap each onion bomb with bacon slices, securing with toothpicks if needed. Make sure the bacon covers the surface well.
Step 5: Cook
Place the bombs on a baking sheet or grill. If baking, cook at 375ยฐF for about 40-45 minutes until the bacon is crispy and the internal temp of the meat is 160ยฐF. Brush with BBQ sauce in the last 10 minutes if using.
Pro Tips for Making the Recipe
- Choose large onions: Theyโre easier to stuff and hold their shape better.
- Donโt overmix the beef: Keeps the texture tender, not dense.
- Use foil: If baking, line the tray with foil to catch drippings and make cleanup easy.
- Rest before serving: Let them sit for a few minutes so the juices redistribute.
How to Serve
These Bacon Cheddar Onion Bombs are incredibly versatile:
###As a Main:
Serve with mashed potatoes, grilled veggies, or a fresh green salad.
###As an Appetizer:
Slice in halves or quarters and serve with toothpicks and dipping sauces like ranch, BBQ, or chipotle mayo.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store cooled bombs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Freezing
Wrap individual bombs tightly in foil or plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 2 months.
Reheating
Reheat in the oven at 350ยฐF until warmed through, or microwave in 30-second intervals. For crispy bacon, use an air fryer or skillet.
FAQs
Can I cook these on the grill?
Absolutely! Just keep the heat indirect and close the lid to allow them to cook through while the bacon crisps up.
What kind of onions work best?
Yellow or white onions are ideal because they hold their shape and have a milder flavor when baked or grilled.
Can I make these in advance?
Yes, you can assemble them a day ahead and refrigerate until ready to cook.
What if I donโt have breadcrumbs?
No worries! Crushed crackers, oats, or even a bit of cooked rice can help bind the mixture.
Final Thoughts
Bacon Cheddar Onion Bombs Recipe
Sink your teeth into these Bacon Cheddar Onion Bombs and get ready for a flavor explosion! These meaty, cheesy, smoky bites are the ultimate comfort food and perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something hearty and deeply satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen. Wrapped in crispy bacon, filled with gooey cheddar, and nestled inside tender onion layers, theyโre bold, savory, and utterly crave-worthy.
Why Youโll Love This Recipe
- Incredibly Flavorful: Every bite delivers melty cheese, juicy meat, and smoky bacon wrapped in tender onion. It’s pure bliss!
- Quick Prep: A few simple steps and you’re on your way to a drool-worthy dinner or appetizer.
- Perfect for Weeknights or Parties: Whether you’re feeding the family or hosting game night, these bombs are guaranteed to disappear fast.
- Customizable: Easily switch up ingredients based on what you have on hand.
Ingredients Youโll Need
- Onions: Large, firm onions work best; they create perfect little bowls for the filling.
- Ground beef: The hearty base of the filling; choose 80/20 for flavor and moisture.
- Cheddar cheese: Sharp cheddar is ideal for its bold flavor and meltiness.
- Bacon: Thin-cut bacon crisps up beautifully in the oven or on the grill.
- Breadcrumbs: Helps bind the filling and adds a touch of texture.
- Egg: Acts as a binder for the meat mixture.
- Garlic and onion powder: Adds a depth of flavor without overpowering.
- Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning.
- BBQ sauce: Optional, but brushing some on before baking or grilling adds a tangy glaze.
Variations
- Spicy Kick: Mix chopped jalapeรฑos or a pinch of cayenne into the beef mixture.
- Different Cheeses: Try pepper jack, mozzarella, or smoked gouda.
- Pork or Turkey: Swap ground beef for ground pork or ground turkey.
- Low Carb: Skip the breadcrumbs and use almond flour or crushed pork rinds.
How to Make Bacon Cheddar Onion Bombs
Step 1: Prep the Onions
Peel the onions and slice them in half vertically. Separate them into matching layers, keeping the larger ones for stuffing.
Step 2: Make the Filling
In a bowl, combine ground beef, shredded cheddar, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined.
Step 3: Assemble the Bombs
Take two matching onion halves and stuff them with a scoop of the beef mixture in between. Press gently to form a bomb.
Step 4: Wrap with Bacon
Wrap each onion bomb with bacon slices, securing with toothpicks if needed. Make sure the bacon covers the surface well.
Step 5: Cook
Place the bombs on a baking sheet or grill. If baking, cook at 375ยฐF for about 40-45 minutes until the bacon is crispy and the internal temp of the meat is 160ยฐF. Brush with BBQ sauce in the last 10 minutes if using.
Pro Tips for Making the Recipe
- Choose large onions: Theyโre easier to stuff and hold their shape better.
- Donโt overmix the beef: Keeps the texture tender, not dense.
- Use foil: If baking, line the tray with foil to catch drippings and make cleanup easy.
- Rest before serving: Let them sit for a few minutes so the juices redistribute.
How to Serve
These Bacon Cheddar Onion Bombs are incredibly versatile:
###As a Main:
Serve with mashed potatoes, grilled veggies, or a fresh green salad.
###As an Appetizer:
Slice in halves or quarters and serve with toothpicks and dipping sauces like ranch, BBQ, or chipotle mayo.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store cooled bombs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Freezing
Wrap individual bombs tightly in foil or plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 2 months.
Reheating
Reheat in the oven at 350ยฐF until warmed through, or microwave in 30-second intervals. For crispy bacon, use an air fryer or skillet.
FAQs
Can I cook these on the grill?
Absolutely! Just keep the heat indirect and close the lid to allow them to cook through while the bacon crisps up.
What kind of onions work best?
Yellow or white onions are ideal because they hold their shape and have a milder flavor when baked or grilled.
Can I make these in advance?
Yes, you can assemble them a day ahead and refrigerate until ready to cook.
What if I donโt have breadcrumbs?
No worries! Crushed crackers, oats, or even a bit of cooked rice can help bind the mixture.
Final Thoughts
- Onions: Large, firm onions work best; they create perfect little bowls for the filling.
- Ground beef: The hearty base of the filling; choose 80/20 for flavor and moisture.
- Cheddar cheese: Sharp cheddar is ideal for its bold flavor and meltiness.
- Bacon: Thin-cut bacon crisps up beautifully in the oven or on the grill.
- Breadcrumbs: Helps bind the filling and adds a touch of texture.
- Egg: Acts as a binder for the meat mixture.
- Garlic and onion powder: Adds a depth of flavor without overpowering.
- Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning.
- BBQ sauce: Optional, but brushing some on before baking or grilling adds a tangy glaze.
Variations
- Spicy Kick: Mix chopped jalapeรฑos or a pinch of cayenne into the beef mixture.
- Different Cheeses: Try pepper jack, mozzarella, or smoked gouda.
- Pork or Turkey: Swap ground beef for ground pork or ground turkey.
- Low Carb: Skip the breadcrumbs and use almond flour or crushed pork rinds.
How to Make Bacon Cheddar Onion Bombs
Step 1: Prep the Onions
Peel the onions and slice them in half vertically. Separate them into matching layers, keeping the larger ones for stuffing.
Step 2: Make the Filling
In a bowl, combine ground beef, shredded cheddar, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined.
Step 3: Assemble the Bombs
Take two matching onion halves and stuff them with a scoop of the beef mixture in between. Press gently to form a bomb.
Step 4: Wrap with Bacon
Wrap each onion bomb with bacon slices, securing with toothpicks if needed. Make sure the bacon covers the surface well.
Step 5: Cook
Place the bombs on a baking sheet or grill. If baking, cook at 375ยฐF for about 40-45 minutes until the bacon is crispy and the internal temp of the meat is 160ยฐF. Brush with BBQ sauce in the last 10 minutes if using.
Pro Tips for Making the Recipe
- Choose large onions: Theyโre easier to stuff and hold their shape better.
- Donโt overmix the beef: Keeps the texture tender, not dense.
- Use foil: If baking, line the tray with foil to catch drippings and make cleanup easy.
- Rest before serving: Let them sit for a few minutes so the juices redistribute.
How to Serve
These Bacon Cheddar Onion Bombs are incredibly versatile:
###As a Main:
Serve with mashed potatoes, grilled veggies, or a fresh green salad.
###As an Appetizer:
Slice in halves or quarters and serve with toothpicks and dipping sauces like ranch, BBQ, or chipotle mayo.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store cooled bombs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Freezing
Wrap individual bombs tightly in foil or plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 2 months.
Reheating
Reheat in the oven at 350ยฐF until warmed through, or microwave in 30-second intervals. For crispy bacon, use an air fryer or skillet.
FAQs
Can I cook these on the grill?
Absolutely! Just keep the heat indirect and close the lid to allow them to cook through while the bacon crisps up.
What kind of onions work best?
Yellow or white onions are ideal because they hold their shape and have a milder flavor when baked or grilled.
Can I make these in advance?
Yes, you can assemble them a day ahead and refrigerate until ready to cook.
What if I donโt have breadcrumbs?
No worries! Crushed crackers, oats, or even a bit of cooked rice can help bind the mixture.
Final Thoughts
These Bacon Cheddar Onion Bombs are everything you want in a comforting dishโsavory, cheesy, smoky, and completely satisfying. They look impressive, taste incredible, and come together with surprisingly little effort. Give them a try and donโt be surprised if they become a regular favorite!
PrintBacon Cheddar Onion Bombs Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 min
- Cook Time: 40 min
- Total Time: 55 min
- Yield: 6 bombs 1x
- Category: Appetizer/Main
- Method: Bake (or grill indirect)
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Calorie
Description
Delicious bacon-wrapped meatballs stuffed with cheddar and nestled in onion layers, glazed with BBQ sauceโperfect as a hearty appetizer or game-day main.
Ingredients
- 2 red onions (or 3 yellow/white)
- 1 1/2 lb ground beef (80/20)
- 8 oz sharp cheddar cheese, shredded or cubed
- 18 slices thick-cut bacon
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce, plus extra for glazing
- 2 Tbsp avocado oil (optional)
- 1 tsp kosher salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 425โฏยฐF (or grill to medium indirect heat).
- Trim ends off onions, peel outer layers, cut in half, and separate two outer layers for wrapping.
- In a bowl, combine beef, breadcrumbs, egg, BBQ sauce, oil, salt, pepper, garlic & onion powders; mix gently.
- Divide mixture into 6 portions; press cheddar into each and form into balls.
- Wrap each meatball in 2 onion layers.
- Lay 3 bacon slices in a star pattern, place onion-wrapped ball in center, wrap bacon around and secure with toothpicks.
- Place bombs on rack or foil-lined sheet; bake 40 min until bacon is crispy and meat reaches 165โฏยฐF. Brush with BBQ sauce and bake additional 5โ10 min.
- Let rest a few minutes before serving.
Notes
- Reserve inner onion pieces for other recipes.
- Avoid overmixing beef to keep meatballs tender.
- Chill formed bombs briefly before baking for better shape retention.
- Cook on a rack for crisper bacon; broil 1โ2โฏmin if needed.
- Bombs can be assembled ahead and refrigerated up to 24โฏhrs before cooking.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bomb
- Calories: 670
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 580-1720 mg
- Fat: 50 g
- Saturated Fat: 21 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 29 g
- Trans Fat: 1 g
- Carbohydrates: 5 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 50 g
- Cholesterol: 154 mg
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