Meatballs with Creamy Cheese Sauce and Crispy Bacon

Indulge in these juicy meatballs smothered in a rich, cheesy sauce and topped with crispy bacon. Perfect for a hearty dinner or a satisfying party appetizer!

Ingredients

For the Meatballs:

  • 1 lb (450g) ground beef
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1 egg
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 2 tbsp olive oil (for frying)

For the Cheese Sauce:

  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 tsp garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste

For the Topping:

  • 4 slices crispy bacon, crumbled
  • 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Directions

1️⃣ Prepare the Meatballs

  1. In a mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, minced garlic, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
  2. Roll the mixture into 1-inch meatballs and set aside.

2️⃣ Cook the Meatballs

  1. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
  2. Add the meatballs and cook for 6-8 minutes, turning occasionally, until browned on all sides and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

3️⃣ Make the Cheese Sauce

  1. In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
  2. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to form a roux.
  3. Gradually add the milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
  4. Stir in the cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Cook until the sauce is smooth and creamy.

4️⃣ Assemble the Dish

  1. Return the meatballs to the skillet, coating them in the creamy cheese sauce.
  2. Sprinkle crumbled bacon over the top.

5️⃣ Serve

  1. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
  2. Serve hot with mashed potatoes, pasta, or crusty bread for a complete meal.

Pro Tips

  • Bacon Hack: Bake bacon slices in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 15 minutes for perfectly crispy results.
  • Make Ahead: Prepare the meatballs ahead of time and refrigerate. Cook and assemble when ready to serve.
  • Extra Cheese: For a gooey twist, top with shredded mozzarella before serving and broil for 2-3 minutes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Rich Flavor: Creamy cheese sauce paired with smoky bacon makes every bite unforgettable.
  • Versatile: Serve as a main dish or a party appetizer.
  • Quick & Easy: Simple ingredients come together for a gourmet-style meal.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

  • Calories: ~520 kcal
  • Protein: ~32 g
  • Carbohydrates: ~12 g
  • Fat: ~38 g
  • Fiber: ~1 g

Conclusion

This Meatballs with Creamy Cheese Sauce and Crispy Bacon recipe is a game-changer for any meal. Packed with flavor and layered with textures, it’s perfect for cozy dinners or impressing your guests at gatherings. Pair it with your favorite side dishes and enjoy a comforting, crowd-pleasing meal!

Give this recipe a try and watch it become a family favorite. Don’t forget to share your experience in the comments below!

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