Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatballs

These Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatballs deliver the deliciousness of a classic cheeseburger while keeping it low-carb. Perfect for gatherings, game days, or a cozy family dinner, these meatballs are packed with flavor and sure to please everyone at the table. The combination of turkey bacon and Swiss cheese creates a unique twist that elevates this comfort food favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Low-Carb Delight: Enjoy the cheeseburger experience without worrying about carbs.
• Quick Preparation: With simple ingredients and easy steps, you can whip these up in no time.
• Flavorful & Juicy: The blend of turkey bacon and Swiss cheese keeps these meatballs moist and bursting with flavor.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve as an appetizer, main dish, or even in a salad for a fresh take.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: These meatballs reheat wonderfully, so you can enjoy leftovers throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare your Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatballs, you’ll need some essential tools that make the process smooth and efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Measuring cups
• Grilling pan or stovetop grill pan
• Food thermometer (optional)
• Baking sheet

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A sturdy bowl is crucial for combining your ingredients evenly without spilling.
• Grilling pan: This allows you to achieve that perfect sear on your meatballs while keeping them juicy inside.
• Food thermometer: Ensures your meatballs are cooked safely to the right temperature for maximum enjoyment.

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. Place the ground beef into a mixing bowl.
2. Sprinkle with steak seasoning and black pepper; add the egg.

Step 2: Crisp Up the Turkey Bacon

1. Cook the turkey bacon until crispy.
2. Crumble it into small pieces once cooled.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

1. Dice dill pickles and cut Swiss cheese into small cubes.
2. Add crumbled turkey bacon, diced pickles, and cheese to the beef mixture.
3. Gently mix with your hands; avoid over-mixing to keep meatballs tender.

Step 4: Form Meatballs

1. Use a 1/4 cup measuring cup to scoop out portions of the mixture.
2. Shape each portion into a meatball, tucking cheese cubes inside as you go.

Step 5: Chill Before Cooking

1. Place formed meatballs on a baking sheet.
2. Refrigerate for 30-40 minutes to help maintain their shape during grilling.

Step 6: Preheat Your Grill

1. Heat your grilling pan on top of the grill grates while preheating the grill to medium-high heat.

Step 7: Brush with Olive Oil

1. Remove chilled meatballs from the fridge.
2. Brush both sides lightly with olive oil to prevent sticking.

Step 8: Grill the Meatballs

1. Place meatballs on the grilling pan.
2. Turn every two minutes until browned on all sides.

Step 9: Check for Doneness

1. Start checking after about 15 minutes using an instant-read thermometer.
2. Ensure internal temperature reaches at least 160F/102C or cut one open to check if cooked through.

Step 10: Serve Hot

1. Serve immediately with dipping sauce of choice if desired.

Step 11: Enjoy Leftovers!

1. These meatballs reheat well—consider doubling the recipe for future meals!

How to Serve Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatballs

Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatballs are versatile and delicious. You can serve them in various ways to elevate your meal experience. Here are some creative serving suggestions that will impress your family and friends.

Sliders

• Use small buns or lettuce wraps to create sliders. Add your favorite toppings like lettuce, tomato, and cheese for a fun finger food option.

Dipping Sauces

• Pair the meatballs with a variety of dipping sauces. Consider barbecue sauce, ranch dressing, or a spicy sriracha mayo for extra flavor.

Salad Toppers

• Slice the meatballs and add them on top of a fresh salad. This adds protein and flavor while keeping the dish light and healthy.

Pasta Dish

• Toss the meatballs with cooked pasta and marinara sauce for a hearty meal. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese for added richness.

Appetizer Platter

• Serve the meatballs on a platter with toothpicks as an appetizer. Add some veggies and dips to round out the presentation.

Breakfast Option

• Incorporate these meatballs into your breakfast by serving them alongside scrambled eggs. They can also be added to a breakfast burrito for a protein boost.

How to Perfect Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatballs

To ensure your Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatballs turn out perfect every time, consider these simple tips.

• Use lean beef – Opt for lean ground beef to keep the meatballs moist without adding excess fat.
• Don’t over-mix – Combine the ingredients gently; over-mixing can lead to tough meatballs.
• Chill before grilling – Refrigerating the formed meatballs helps them retain their shape while cooking.
• Check for doneness – Use an instant-read thermometer to make sure they reach 160°F (71°C) internally for safe eating.
• Experiment with spices – Feel free to add herbs or spices according to your taste preferences for more flavor depth.
• Make ahead – Prepare extra batches and freeze them for quick meals later on.

Best Side Dishes for Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatballs

Pairing side dishes with your Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatballs can enhance your dining experience. Here are some excellent options:

1. Zucchini Noodles – Light and low-carb, zucchini noodles are a great alternative to traditional pasta.
2. Cauliflower Rice – A fluffy substitute for rice that pairs well with meatballs while keeping carbs low.
3. Roasted Brussels Sprouts – These add a crunchy texture and earthy flavor that complements the savory meatballs.
4. Sweet Potato Fries – Bake or air fry sweet potatoes for a healthier twist on fries that adds sweetness.
5. Coleslaw – A crunchy, tangy slaw balances the richness of the meatballs perfectly.
6. Grilled Vegetables – Seasonal veggies grilled with olive oil enhance flavor while keeping it fresh and colorful.
7. Stuffed Peppers – Fill bell peppers with rice or quinoa mixed with spices as a creative side option.
8. Cucumber Salad – A refreshing salad with cucumbers and vinegar adds brightness to your meal.

Enjoy creating this delightful dish!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatballs, even small errors can impact the final result. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for:

• Overmixing the ingredients: Mixing too much can make meatballs tough. Gently combine the ingredients to keep them tender.
• Skipping the chilling step: Not chilling the meatballs can cause them to fall apart on the grill. Always chill for at least 30 minutes before cooking.
• Ignoring seasoning: Failing to season properly will lead to bland meatballs. Use steak seasoning and black pepper generously for flavor.
• Not checking doneness: Cutting into a meatball without checking its temperature can lead to undercooked meat. Use an instant-read thermometer for accuracy.
• Using large cheese cubes: If cheese cubes are too big, they might not melt properly inside the meatball. Cut them into very small pieces for even melting.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store meatballs in an airtight container in the fridge.
• They will last up to 3 days.

Freezing Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatballs

• Freeze meatballs on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatballs

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish and heat in intervals of 30 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Heat in a pan over medium heat, turning occasionally, until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatballs:

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

You can use gluten-free breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs. Just make sure all other ingredients are gluten-free as well.

Can I substitute turkey bacon with regular bacon?

Yes, you can substitute regular bacon if you prefer. Just note that it may add more fat and calories.

What dips pair well with Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatballs?

Delicious dips include ketchup, mustard, or a creamy ranch sauce for added flavor.

How long do Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatballs take to cook?

They typically take about 20 minutes on the grill or stovetop after being chilled.

Final Thoughts

Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatballs are a delightful twist on classic cheeseburgers, providing all the comforting flavors without the carbs. They’re perfect for meal prep and can be customized with different cheeses or seasonings. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy these tasty bites at your next gathering or as a satisfying weekday meal!