Bacon Cheddar Onion Bombs Recipe

🔪 Ingredients (Serves 4)
2 large yellow onions
1 lb (450g) ground beef (80/20 is ideal)
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1/4 cup breadcrumbs (optional for binding)
1 egg (optional, helps bind the filling)
1/4 cup barbecue sauce (plus more for brushing)
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
1/2 tsp smoked paprika
Salt and pepper, to taste
8 slices of bacon (more if needed)
📝 Instructions
1. Prep the Onions
Peel the onions and slice off both ends.
Carefully separate the onion into large layers — you’ll want to get 8 “halves” to use as outer shells (2 layers thick works best).
2. Make the Meat Filling
In a bowl, combine:
Ground beef
Cheddar cheese
Breadcrumbs
Egg
BBQ sauce
Garlic powder
Onion powder
Paprika
Salt & pepper
Mix until just combined — don’t overwork it.
3. Assemble the Bombs
Take a portion of meat mixture and form it into a ball that fits inside two onion layers.
Encase the meatball between two onion halves (like a globe).
4. Wrap with Bacon
Wrap each bomb with 2 slices of bacon in a criss-cross pattern to fully enclose the onion/meatball.
Secure with toothpicks if needed.
5. Cook
Choose one of the following:
🔥 Grill (Smoky Flavor)
Preheat grill to medium heat (around 350°F/175°C).
Place bombs on indirect heat.
Grill for 30–40 minutes, turning occasionally, until bacon is crisp and internal temp hits 160°F (71°C).
🔥 Oven
Preheat to 375°F (190°C).
Place bombs on a baking rack over a tray (to catch drips).
Bake for 40–45 minutes.
Brush with more BBQ sauce in the last 10 minutes for a glaze.
🌀 Air Fryer (Quicker)
Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 20–25 minutes, turning halfway.
Check for doneness and crispy bacon.
🍽️ Serving Ideas
Serve with extra BBQ sauce or ranch.
Great with mashed potatoes, grilled corn, or on a bun like a burger.