Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 12 slices bacon
Special equipment needed:
- Toothpicks
- Baking sheet
- Wire rack
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, egg, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.
3. Divide the mixture into 12 equal portions and shape into meatballs.
4. Press a small amount of shredded cheddar cheese into the center of each meatball.
5. Wrap each meatball with a slice of bacon, securing with a toothpick.
6. Place the meatballs on a wire rack set over a baking sheet.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the meatballs are cooked through.
8. Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 25-30 minutes
Temperature:
- Oven temperature: 375°F
Serving size:
- 12 meatballs
Nutritional information:
- Calories: 245
- Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Protein: 16g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Ground beef can be substituted with ground turkey or chicken.
- Breadcrumbs can be substituted with almond flour or crushed pork rinds.
- Parmesan cheese can be substituted with any hard cheese.
- Cheddar cheese can be substituted with any shredded cheese.
- Bacon can be substituted with prosciutto or pancetta.
Variations:
- Add diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- Use different types of cheese, such as blue cheese or feta.
- Add chopped mushrooms or spinach to the meat mixture for extra flavor and nutrition.
Tips and tricks:
- Use toothpicks to secure the bacon and prevent it from unraveling.
- Make sure the meatballs are evenly sized for even cooking.
- If the bacon is not crispy enough, broil for a few minutes at the end of cooking time.
- Serve with a dipping sauce, such as ranch or barbecue sauce.
Storage instructions:
- Store leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
- Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
- Serve on a platter with toothpicks.
- Garnish with chopped parsley or green onions.
Pairings:
- Serve with a side salad or roasted vegetables.
- Pair with a glass of red wine or a cold beer.
Suggested side dishes:
- Roasted Brussels sprouts
- Garlic mashed potatoes
- Grilled asparagus
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the bacon is not crispy enough, broil for a few minutes at the end of cooking time.
- If the meatballs are not cooked through, bake for an additional 5-10 minutes.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure the meatballs reach an internal temperature of 165°F to ensure they are fully cooked.
- Use a meat thermometer to check the temperature.
Food history:
- Meatballs have been a popular dish in many cultures for centuries, with variations found in Italian, Swedish, and Middle Eastern cuisine.
Flavor profiles:
- Savory, cheesy, and smoky.
Serving suggestions:
- Serve as an appetizer or main dish.
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