Air Fryer BBQ Bacon-Wrapped Meatballs

Air Fryer BBQ Bacon-Wrapped Meatballs

Smoky, savory, and irresistibly sweet, these BBQ Bacon-Wrapped Meatballs are the ultimate comfort food. Perfect as a party appetizer or a satisfying main dish, they’re a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!

Ingredients:

Meatballs:

• 1 lb ground beef (80/20 lean-to-fat ratio preferred)

• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs

• 1 large egg

• 1 clove garlic, minced

• 1 teaspoon onion powder

• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

• 1/2 teaspoon salt

• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Wrap and Glaze:

• 10–12 slices of bacon, halved

• 1/2 cup BBQ sauce

Kitchen Tools Needed:

• Air fryer

• Large mixing bowl

• Measuring cups and spoons

• Small scoop or spoon (for portioning meatballs)

• Toothpicks

Preparation Steps:

Mix the Meatball Ingredients:

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.

2. Gently mix with your hands or a spatula until all ingredients are evenly combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the meatballs tender.

Form and Wrap the Meatballs:

1. Using a small scoop or your hands, roll the mixture into 1-inch meatballs.

2. Wrap each meatball with a half slice of bacon and secure with a toothpick.

Air Frying Steps:

1. Preheat: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F for 3–5 minutes.

2. Load the Basket: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray and arrange the bacon-wrapped meatballs in a single layer, leaving space between them. Cook in batches if necessary.

3. First Cook Cycle: Air fry the meatballs at 375°F for 10 minutes.

4. Glaze and Finish: Brush the meatballs with BBQ sauce and air fry for another 3–5 minutes, until the bacon is crispy and caramelized. Ensure the meatballs reach an internal temperature of 165°F.

Serving Suggestions:

• Serve as an appetizer with extra BBQ sauce for dipping.

• Pair with coleslaw and cornbread for a Southern-inspired meal.

• Enjoy over mashed potatoes or rice for a hearty main course.

Tips for Success:

• Secure the Bacon: Use toothpicks to keep the bacon snug around the meatballs during cooking.

• Glaze Evenly: Brush the BBQ sauce generously for a sweet and smoky finish.

• Cook in Batches: Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket to ensure even cooking.

Nutrition Estimate (Per Serving):

• Calories: ~330

• Protein: ~20g

• Carbohydrates: ~8g

• Fat: ~25g

These BBQ Bacon-Wrapped Meatballs are a smoky and sweet indulgence that will quickly become a favorite at your table or next party! Air Fryer BBQ Bacon-Wrapped Meatballs