Bacon Wrapped Meatballs made with juicy meatballs & crispy bacon brushed with sweet maple syrup for a delightful appetizer with sweet & savory flavors!
Whether you’re hosting a party or just looking for a tasty snack, oven baked meatballs are a must-try recipe that is sure to be a hit. This meatball appetizer is easy to make, delicious, and perfect for any occasion. So why not give this classic recipe a try and see for yourself how delicious they can be?
Bacon Meatballs: An easy appetizer idea
Bacon-wrapped meatballs are a crowd-pleasing appetizer that is easy to make and perfect for any occasion. They are a great combination of savory and sweet flavors that will leave your guests wanting more. Meatballs wrapped in bacon are versatile and can be served with a variety of dipping sauces such as barbecue sauce, ranch dressing, or honey mustard. They can also be served on their own as a delicious and satisfying appetizer. We can’t stop raving about these bacon-covered meatballs, they are just so delicious!
Why you’ll love this easy Meatball recipe!
- They’re great for a variety of events. Anything from a weekend BBQ to your child’s graduation is a perfect setting. Even tailgating and baby showers work wonderfully for these meatball appetizers.
- Minimal ingredients: You only need 3 ingredients to make this recipe (plus some toothpicks to hold them together). Minimal ingredients means small shopping trips and quick prep.
- Make them in advance: Just prep and set in the fridge until party time. Quickly bake them in the oven and serve warm. Yum!
Bacon Wrapped Meatballs Ingredients
Bacon: You will need 16 slices of bacon to make sure that there is enough to cover every meatball.
Meatballs: You need 16 frozen homestyle meatballs. You can use beef or turkey, depending on your preferences, either way they will be amazing!
Maple syrup: Use ¼ cup of maple syrup to ensure just the right amount of sweetness for every meatball.
Toothpicks: While not actually a food item, you will need toothpicks. These will help to hold the bacon onto the meatball, as well as serve as a handle for serving.
BACON WRAPPED MEATBALLS
Ingredients
- 16 slices bacon
- 16 frozen homestyle meatballs
- ¼ cup maple syrup
Instructions
- Prep: Preheat oven to 400 degrees F. Spray a square glass pan with non-stick spray.
- Partially cook bacon: Place a paper towel on a microwave-safe plate and lay out bacon on top. Place a paper towel over the top and microwave bacon for 4 minutes. Bacon should look partially cooked. If necessary, cook for an additional 2-3 minutes. (Thicker bacon may need more time!) Let cool for a few minutes, until you can handle it easily.
- Assemble: Take 1 slice of semi-cooked bacon and wrap it around a meatball. Right when the bacon begins to overlap, fold it over so that you can wrap it around the other side of the meatball. Secure the end with a toothpick and place in prepared pan. Repeat process with remaining bacon & meatballs.
- Drizzle a little over half the maple syrup over the uncooked bacon meatballs.
- Bake: Bake in a 400-degree oven for 15-25 minutes. Cooking time will vary depending on the thickness of your bacon and how well done you'd like it. My bacon was thick and I like it well done, so I cooked them for the full 25 minutes.
- Drizzle meatballs with remaining maple syrup just prior to serving. I transferred them to a serving dish, then drizzled them. Serve hot and enjoy!
Notes
Nutrition
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How can I make bacon wrapped meatballs with brown sugar?
To make bacon wrapped meatballs with brown sugar instead of syrup, simply mix brown sugar with a couple tablespoons of water. Then, brush the sugar mixture on each bacon wrapped meatball and cook according to the directions.
What are tips for making smoked bacon wrapped meatballs?
To make smoked bacon wrapped meatballs, consider using a smoker or adding wood chips to your grill to infuse the meatballs with smoky flavor. You can also try using different types of wood chips to experiment with different flavors. Additionally, consider using a meat thermometer to ensure that the meatballs are fully cooked without overcooking them.
Can I cook bacon wrapped meatballs on a grill? If so, how?
Yes, you can cook bacon wrapped meatballs on a grill. Simply place the meatballs on skewers or in a grilling basket to prevent them from falling through the grates. Cook over medium heat, turning occasionally, until the bacon is crispy and the meatballs are cooked through.
Can bacon covered meatballs be made in advance?
Yes, you can prep these meatballs in advance! Simply make the meatballs all the way up to the baking portion, and then instead of baking, cover and place in the fridge for up to 2 days. If using a glass baking dish, allow it to rest at room temperature on the counter as you preheat the oven so that it doesn’t shatter from the extreme heat change. Using a non-glass baking dish or even a disposable aluminum pan would be a great choice to prevent this risk as well.
Can I heat the bacon without a microwave?
Yes, if you don’t have a microwave or do not wish to use it, you can warm your bacon on the stovetop as you would normally cook it. Simply cook until it’s half to 3/4 of the way cooked. You want it partially cooked but not crispy. After, drain it on paper towels to remove excess grease before using as directed.
How long are bacon wrapped meatballs good for?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-5 days. Reheat them again before serving so that you can enjoy them warm. That’s when they truly taste their best.
Bacon Wrapped Meatballs are made with just 3 ingredients, you are going to love this simple recipe! This easy appetizer idea is perfect for any occasion or event, they are always a crowd pleaser.
Kara Cook says
I can’t believe I have never thought of doing this, we love bacon at our house. These look so yummy!
John Smith says
I did not microwave the bacon because I find that leaves it bland and rubbery so instead I suggest to anyone else who feels this way, just put it on the stove top for a few.
Mary says
Can I put in crock pot to keep warm
Nicole says
Yes, you could place them in a crockpot on warm or low setting. Make sure that they are already cooked through beforehand
Doris says
Really want to make these. If I am using my own appetizer meatball recipe, are the baking instructions the same since many of the frozen meatballs at the store are precooked?
Jessica says
Correct Doris!!
kimberly k johnston says
can i make these without maple syrup or brown sugar? im really trying to limit my sugar and carb intake
Jessica says
You can!