Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatballs

Name: Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatballs
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb. lean ground beef; 2 tsp. steak seasoning; 1/2 tsp. fresh-ground black pepper; 1 egg; 6 slices turkey bacon, cooked and chopped; 1/4 cup chopped dill pickle; 4 oz. Swiss cheese, cut into small cubes; Olive oil for brushing

Published: June 19, 2025

by Vanessaa

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Low-Carb Delight: Enjoy the taste of a cheeseburger without the carbs, making this a perfect dish for keto diets.
Easy to Prepare: This recipe is simple enough for beginners and quick to whip up for busy weeknights.
Flavor Packed: The combination of turkey bacon, dill pickles, and Swiss cheese creates a savory burst of flavor in each bite.
Versatile Serving Options: Serve them as an appetizer, main course, or even as part of a meal prep plan.
Great for Leftovers: These meatballs reheat well, so you can enjoy them again without losing their deliciousness.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start making your Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatballs, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make your cooking experience smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Grilling pan
Plastic mixing bowl
Measuring cups
Instant-read meat thermometer

Importance of Each Tool

Grilling pan: This ensures even cooking and great grill marks on your meatballs.
Plastic mixing bowl: A large bowl allows you to mix all ingredients without mess.
Measuring cups: Accurate measurements help maintain consistency in flavor and texture.
Instant-read meat thermometer: Ensures that your meatballs reach a safe temperature for eating.

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, cooked (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

For Garnish

2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatballs

Step 1: Prepare the Ground Beef Mixture

Start by placing the ground beef in a plastic bowl. Sprinkle it with steak seasoning and black pepper. Add the egg to bind everything together.

Step 2: Prepare Additional Ingredients

Crisp the Turkey Bacon: Cook until crispy then chop into small pieces.
Dice Pickles: Cut dill pickles into small cubes.
Cut Cheese: Cube Swiss cheese into tiny pieces.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Add the cooked turkey bacon, diced pickles, and cheese cubes to the seasoned ground beef. Use your hands to combine gently; be careful not to over-mix as this can make meatballs tough.

Step 4: Form Meatballs

Use a 1/4 cup measuring cup to scoop out the mixture and shape it into meatballs. Tuck some cheese cubes inside each meatball while forming them.

Step 5: Chill Before Cooking

Place formed meatballs on a baking sheet and chill in the fridge for 30-40 minutes. This helps them hold their shape when grilling.

Step 6: Preheat Your Grill

As you prepare to cook, place the grilling pan on top of grill grates to heat up. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.

Step 7: Brush with Olive Oil

Remove chilled meatballs from the fridge and brush both sides lightly with olive oil to prevent sticking during grilling.

Step 8: Grill Meatballs

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

Step 9: Check for Doneness

After about 15 minutes of cooking, start checking if they are done using an instant-read thermometer; they should reach an internal temperature of at least 160F/102C.

Step 10: Serve Hot

Serve these delightful meatballs hot with dipping sauce if desired!

Step 11: Store Leftovers

These Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatballs reheat well! Consider doubling the recipe so you can enjoy leftovers throughout the week!

How to Serve Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatballs

Serving Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatballs is a delightful experience that can be customized to suit your taste. Whether you’re hosting a party or enjoying a casual meal, these meatballs offer versatility and flavor.

With Dipping Sauces

Ketchup – A classic choice that complements the savory flavors of the meatballs.
Mustard – Adds a tangy kick that enhances the cheeseburger experience.
Ranch Dressing – Creamy and herby, this sauce pairs well with the meatballs.

On a Salad

Mixed Greens – Toss the meatballs on a bed of fresh greens for a light yet filling meal.
Caesar Salad – Combine with Romaine, croutons, and Caesar dressing for an indulgent twist.

In Sliders

Mini Buns – Place each meatball in a small bun with your favorite toppings for delicious sliders.
Lettuce Wraps – For a low-carb option, wrap meatballs in crisp lettuce leaves instead of buns.

As an Appetizer

Toothpicks – Serve them on toothpicks for easy snacking during parties or gatherings.
Cheese Platter – Pair meatballs with cheeses and crackers for an elegant appetizer spread.

How to Perfect Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatballs

Perfecting Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatballs requires attention to detail and technique. Follow these tips to ensure your meatballs are always delicious.

Use Cold Ingredients – Keeping ingredients cold helps maintain the shape of the meatballs while cooking.
Don’t Overmix – Gently combine the ingredients to avoid tough meatballs; overmixing can lead to density.
Chill Before Grilling – Refrigerate shaped meatballs for 30-40 minutes before grilling to help retain their form during cooking.
Check Doneness Carefully – Use an instant-read thermometer for accurate results; aim for an internal temperature of 160F/70C.
Experiment with Seasonings – Feel free to adjust seasonings based on personal preferences; add garlic powder or onion powder for extra flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatballs

Pairing side dishes with Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatballs can elevate your meal. Here are some excellent options to consider.

Sweet Potato Fries – Crispy and naturally sweet, they complement the savory flavors of the meatballs beautifully.
Coleslaw – A refreshing crunchy side that adds texture and balances out the richness of the meatballs.
Grilled Vegetables – Zucchini, bell peppers, and onions grilled until tender create a colorful plate alongside the meatballs.
Cauliflower Rice – A low-carb alternative that serves as a great base for your meatball servings.
Garlic Breadsticks – Soft and buttery breadsticks are perfect for dipping into sauces served alongside your meatballs.
Pickle Chips – Tangy and crunchy pickles enhance the cheeseburger flavor profile of the dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatballs, it’s easy to make some common mistakes. Here are a few to watch out for:

Overmixing the meat: This can lead to tough meatballs. Mix just until combined for the best texture.
Skipping the chilling step: Chilling helps the meatballs hold their shape. Don’t skip this step; 30-40 minutes in the fridge makes a big difference.
Neglecting seasoning: Failing to season appropriately can result in bland meatballs. Use steak seasoning and black pepper generously for flavor.
Using too high heat: Cooking on high heat can burn the outside while leaving the inside undercooked. Stick to medium-high heat and check for doneness regularly.
Not checking internal temperature: Always ensure your Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatballs reach at least 160F/70C. Use a thermometer for accuracy.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store in an airtight container.
Keep for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatballs

Place cooled meatballs in a freezer-safe container or bag.
Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatballs

Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place meatballs on a baking sheet and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
Microwave: Place meatballs on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat in 30-second intervals until hot, usually about 1-2 minutes total.
Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, turning occasionally until warmed through, about 5-7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef for Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatballs?

Yes, you can substitute ground turkey. Just ensure it has enough fat content to keep the meatballs juicy.

How do I customize my Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatballs?

Feel free to add different seasonings or cheeses according to your taste preferences. You can also use other types of bacon if desired.

What dipping sauces pair well with these meatballs?

Barbecue sauce, ranch dressing, or even spicy mustard are great options that complement the flavors of Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatballs.

Can I make these Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatballs ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prepare them in advance and store them in the refrigerator or freezer as outlined above.

Final Thoughts

These Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatballs are not only delicious but also versatile. They make a great appetizer or main dish and can be easily customized with different ingredients and seasonings. Give this recipe a try; you won’t be disappointed!

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