Description: Bacon Cheddar Onion Bombs are a savory, indulgent treat that combines the sweetness of onions with the richness of bacon and the sharp, creamy flavor of cheddar cheese. Encased in layers of onion and wrapped in crispy bacon, these bombs are baked to perfection, resulting in a delicious explosion of flavors in every bite. This recipe is perfect for parties, game day gatherings, or any occasion where you want to impress your guests with a unique and unforgettable dish.
Ingredients:
- 4 medium-sized yellow onions, outer 2 layers of each onion
- 2 pounds lean ground beef (93%-7% blend)
- ½ cup bread crumbs
- 1 large egg
- ¼ cup whole milk
- ⅓ cup bottled barbecue sauce (Sweet Baby Ray’s original recommended)
- 3 tablespoons bottled barbecue sauce (Sweet Baby Ray’s original recommended)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 8 cheddar cheese cubes (1-inch sized)
- 16 pieces center-cut smoked bacon
Preparation:
Step 1: Preparing the Onions
Begin by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a large-rimmed baking sheet with aluminum foil to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier. Set the prepared baking sheet aside. Now, take each of the four medium-sized yellow onions and slice off both the top and bottom. This creates a flat surface for the onion to sit on and ensures even cooking. Peel off the outer skin layer of each onion, revealing the fresh, firm layers underneath. Next, slice each onion in half from top to bottom. Carefully remove the two outer layers from each onion half. These layers will be used to encase the meat mixture later on. You should end up with 8 sets of onion halves. Place them aside, ready for assembly.
Step 2: Mixing the Ground Beef Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, bread crumbs, egg, milk, 3 tablespoons of barbecue sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. The bread crumbs act as a binding agent, helping to hold the meat mixture together. The egg adds moisture and richness, while the milk contributes to a tender texture. The barbecue sauce infuses the meat with a sweet and smoky flavor, complementing the other ingredients perfectly. The garlic powder and onion powder enhance the savory notes of the beef, while salt and pepper provide essential seasoning. Using a wooden spoon or your hands, thoroughly mix all the ingredients until they are evenly combined. Ensure that the spices and barbecue sauce are distributed throughout the meat mixture. This step is crucial for achieving a consistent flavor in every bite.
Step 3: Forming the Meatballs with Cheese
Divide the meat mixture into 8 equal portions. This ensures that each onion bomb is the same size and cooks evenly. Take one portion of the meat mixture and flatten it in your palm into a 3-4 inch disc. The disc should be thin enough to wrap around the cheese cube easily. Place a cheddar cheese cube in the center of the flattened meat disc. The cheddar cheese adds a sharp, creamy element to the onion bomb, melting beautifully during baking and providing a delicious contrast to the savory beef and sweet onion. Carefully wrap the meat around the cheese cube, ensuring that it is completely sealed. This prevents the cheese from leaking out during baking and creates a molten core of cheesy goodness. Form the meat into a ball shape, ensuring that the cheese is fully encased.
Step 4: Assembling the Onion Bombs
Cover the meatball with two onion halves, ensuring that most of the surface is wrapped. The onion halves provide a sweet and savory exterior to the meatball, keeping it moist during baking and adding a layer of flavor that complements the beef and cheese. Adjust the size of the onion halves as needed to ensure a snug fit. You want the onion to adhere to the meatball and provide a tight seal. If the onion halves are too large, trim them down. If they are too small, try using larger onion layers. The goal is to create a cohesive onion bomb that holds its shape during baking.
Step 5: Wrapping with Bacon
Lay two bacon slices in an X-pattern. The bacon adds a smoky, salty flavor and crispy texture to the onion bomb, making it even more irresistible. Place the onion bomb in the center of the X-pattern. Wrap the bacon around the onion bomb, ensuring that it covers as much of the surface as possible. If necessary, secure the bacon with a toothpick to prevent it from unraveling during baking. The toothpick can be removed after baking.
Step 6: Baking the Onion Bombs
Place the bacon-wrapped onion bomb onto the prepared baking sheet. Repeat the process for all 8 portions, arranging them evenly on the baking sheet. This allows for proper air circulation and ensures that each onion bomb cooks evenly. Bake for 30 minutes in the preheated oven. After 30 minutes, remove the onion bombs from the oven. Brush the tops and sides with the remaining ⅓ cup of barbecue sauce. The barbecue sauce adds a sweet and tangy glaze to the onion bombs, enhancing their flavor and creating a beautiful caramelized crust. Return the onion bombs to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the sauce is caramelized and the internal temperature reaches 160-165°F (71-74°C). Use a meat thermometer to ensure that the beef is cooked through and safe to eat.
Step 7: Cooling and Serving
Allow the onion bombs to cool for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the cheese to set slightly and prevents burning your mouth. Remove any toothpicks before serving. Enjoy the Bacon Cheddar Onion Bombs while they are still warm and the cheese is melted and gooey.
Why You Will Love This Recipe:
- Flavor Explosion: The combination of sweet onion, savory beef, creamy cheddar, and smoky bacon creates a flavor explosion in every bite.
- Unique and Impressive: These onion bombs are a unique and impressive dish that is sure to wow your guests.
- Versatile: Perfect for parties, game day gatherings, or a special family dinner.
- Easy to Customize: You can easily customize this recipe by using different types of cheese, sauces, or seasonings to suit your taste.
- Comfort Food at Its Best: These onion bombs are the ultimate comfort food, providing a satisfying and indulgent experience.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve as an appetizer at parties or gatherings.
- Pair with a side of coleslaw, potato salad, or baked beans for a complete meal.
- Serve on a bun with your favorite toppings for a delicious and hearty sandwich.
- Offer a variety of dipping sauces, such as ranch dressing, blue cheese dressing, or honey mustard.
- Garnish with chopped green onions or parsley for added flavor and visual appeal.
Tips:
- Use a lean ground beef (93%-7% blend) to prevent the onion bombs from becoming too greasy.
- Make sure to wrap the cheese completely with the meat to prevent it from leaking out during baking.
- Secure the bacon with toothpicks if necessary to prevent it from unraveling.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure that the beef is cooked to a safe internal temperature.
- Adjust the amount of barbecue sauce to your liking.
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the meat mixture.
- Store leftover onion bombs in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 65 minutes
Nutritional Information:
Calories: Approximately 450-550 calories per serving (depending on the specific ingredients used)
Protein: Approximately 30-35 grams per serving
Sodium: Approximately 500-700 milligrams per serving
Conclusion:
Bacon Cheddar Onion Bombs are a delicious and satisfying dish that is sure to become a family favorite. With their unique combination of flavors and textures, these onion bombs are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party, watching a game, or simply looking for a comforting meal, this recipe is sure to please. So, gather your ingredients, follow the simple instructions, and get ready to enjoy a truly unforgettable culinary experience.
Questions and Answers:
Q1: Can I use a different type of cheese?
A: Yes, you can definitely use a different type of cheese! While cheddar is a classic choice, you can experiment with other cheeses like Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or even a smoked gouda for a unique flavor profile. Just make sure the cheese melts well and complements the other ingredients.
Q2: Can I make these ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! You can assemble the onion bombs ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. This makes them perfect for entertaining, as you can get a head start on the preparation and simply bake them when your guests arrive.
Q3: Can I grill these instead of baking them?
A: Yes, grilling is a great option! Preheat your grill to medium heat and cook the onion bombs for about 30-40 minutes, turning occasionally, until the bacon is crispy and the internal temperature reaches 160-165°F. Grilling will add a smoky flavor that complements the other ingredients beautifully.
Q4: Can I add other vegetables to the meat mixture?
A: Certainly! Feel free to add other vegetables like diced bell peppers, chopped mushrooms, or minced garlic to the meat mixture for added flavor and nutrients. Just make sure to chop the vegetables finely so they cook evenly and don’t interfere with the texture of the onion bombs.
Q5: What if I don’t have barbecue sauce?
A: If you don’t have barbecue sauce on hand, you can substitute it with a mixture of ketchup, brown sugar, and a touch of Worcestershire sauce. This will create a similar sweet and tangy flavor that complements the other ingredients. You can also experiment with other sauces like teriyaki sauce or honey mustard for a different twist.
