Moink Balls are tasty meatballs made from ground beef wrapped in bacon, giving them a deliciously smoky flavor. You’ll want to keep these on your grilling menu!
Who doesn’t love bacon? These little bites of joy are perfect for parties or just a fun night at home. I like to serve them with a side of dipping sauce for some extra zing! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This adds rich flavor to the Moink Balls. If you’re looking for a leaner option, ground turkey can work too, though it will change the taste and texture.
Ground Pork: Pork keeps the meatballs juicy. If you’re avoiding pork, ground chicken or lamb can be a fun alternative, but adjust the seasoning for best results.
Cheddar Cheese: I love using sharp cheddar for an extra kick. If you’re dairy-free, try a dairy-free cheese or leave it out altogether. They’ll still taste great!
Breadcrumbs: Regular or panko breadcrumbs work best to bind the mixture. For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed oats.
Bacon: The key to wrapping around those meatballs! Turkey bacon is a healthier choice, but it might not crisp up the same way as regular bacon.
How Do I Get My Moink Balls to Stay Juicy and Flavorable?
To ensure your Moink Balls are juicy and packed with flavor, properly mixing your ingredients is crucial. Don’t overwork the meat; just blend until everything is combined!
- Use your hands for mixing to feel the texture.
- Form meatballs gently; squeeze lightly to keep them fluffy, not dense.
- Keep your smoker or oven at a steady temperature; low and slow is best for juicy results.
Glazing with BBQ sauce towards the end adds that delicious sticky coating without burning. Enjoy your cooking!
How to Make Moink Balls?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Meat Mixture:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 pound ground pork
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon BBQ seasoning (or to taste)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Wrapping:
- 1 pound bacon, cut into halves
For Glazing:
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce (for glazing)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and around 2 hours of cooking time. You’ll spend a few minutes mixing the ingredients, forming the meatballs, and wrapping them in bacon before they cook low and slow. Perfect for a gathering or a tasty snack!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven or Smoker:
Start by preheating your smoker or oven to 225°F (107°C). This low and slow method will help the flavors develop beautifully while keeping the meatballs juicy.
2. Mix the Meat Ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, shredded cheddar cheese, breadcrumbs, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, BBQ seasoning, salt, and pepper. Use your hands or a spoon to mix everything until well combined. It’s fun to get your hands in there!
3. Shape the Meatballs:
With clean hands, take a small portion of the meat mixture and roll it into a ball, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. Try to make them all about the same size so they cook evenly.
4. Wrap the Meatballs:
Grab a half slice of bacon and wrap it around each meatball. If the bacon doesn’t stay in place, you can use a toothpick to secure it. This will create a crispy, smoky outer layer while they cook.
5. Arrange for Cooking:
Place the wrapped meatballs on a baking sheet or a grilling rack. Make sure they are spaced out a little so the heat can circulate around them while cooking.
6. Cook the Moink Balls:
Smoke or bake the Moink Balls for about 2 hours, or until their internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). If you’re using a meat thermometer, this will help you check they’re cooked perfectly!
7. Glaze with BBQ Sauce:
During the last 20 minutes of cooking, brush the meatballs with BBQ sauce. This step adds a delicious glaze that makes them even tastier!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Once cooked, remove the Moink Balls from the heat and let them rest for a few minutes. This helps them stay juicy. Then, enjoy your mouthwatering Moink Balls—perfect for sharing with friends and family!
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! While cheddar cheese adds great flavor, you can substitute it with other cheeses like pepper jack for a spicy kick or mozzarella for a milder taste. Just make sure the cheese you choose melts well to maintain the delicious texture.
What If I Don’t Have BBQ Seasoning?
No worries if you’re out of BBQ seasoning! You can easily make your own by combining smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, brown sugar, and a pinch of cayenne pepper for heat. Adjust the spices to your taste for a unique flavor!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover Moink Balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave them in short intervals, but be careful not to dry them out!
Can I Make Moink Balls Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the meatballs and wrap them in bacon a day ahead! Just refrigerate them covered until you’re ready to cook. If you want to freeze them, place the wrapped meatballs on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer bag. They will last for up to 3 months in the freezer.
