Bite-Sized BBQ

When it comes to game day snacks or backyard gatherings, few things satisfy like smoky, saucy, bite-sized BBQ meatballs. Char-Griller Ambassador Steve Dotson, better known as The Cookout Coach, brings the heat with this irresistible Bacon-Wrapped BBQ Meatballs recipe. Cooked to perfection on the Char-Griller Gravity Series grill, these meatballs get a deliciously crispy bacon exterior and a rich, smoky flavor that’s sure to impress. Whether you’re serving them as an appetizer or piling them onto a slider bun, this recipe is a surefire crowd-pleaser.

"There's really nothing to these—they're a fan favorite. Just give them a shot, you're going to love it!" – Steve

Why the Char-Griller Smokin’ Pro is Perfect for This Recipe

The Char-Griller Smokin’ Pro Barrel Grill and Offset Smoker is the perfect grill for cooking Bacon-Wrapped BBQ Meatballs because it delivers that unbeatable smoky flavor while offering precise heat control. Its offset smoker box allows you to infuse the meatballs with rich, wood-smoked goodness, ensuring every bite has that deep, authentic barbecue taste. The cast-iron grates provide even heat distribution, helping the bacon render beautifully while keeping the meatballs juicy inside. Plus, with ample cooking space, you can easily whip up a big batch—perfect for feeding a hungry crowd at your next cookout.

Mastering the Bite: The Key to a Perfect Bacon-Wrapped BBQ Meatball

The key to a perfect Bacon-Wrapped BBQ Meatball is balancing crisp, smoky bacon with a juicy, flavorful center. To achieve this, start with evenly sized meatballs to ensure consistent cooking. Wrapping them in half-strips of bacon keeps the ratio just right—enough to get that crispy, rendered texture without overpowering the meat. Cooking at 350°F on the Char-Griller Smokin’ Pro allows the bacon to slowly crisp up while the meatballs stay tender. Finally, a quick dunk in warm BBQ sauce and a few minutes to set the glaze take these bite-sized delights to the next level.

Effortless BBQ

Cooking Bacon-Wrapped BBQ Meatballs on a smoker not only enhances their flavor but also ensures a crispy, caramelized finish. By maintaining a steady 350°F, the bacon slowly renders, wrapping each meatball in a smoky, savory crust. Using a high-quality BBQ rub before cooking adds depth, while finishing with a sticky-sweet glaze locks in moisture and flavor. 

Pro Tip: For best results, give the bacon a little stretch before wrapping and secure each meatball with a toothpick to keep everything in place as it smokes.

Final Touches: Serving Your Bacon-Wrapped BBQ Meatballs

Once your Bacon-Wrapped BBQ Meatballs are done, the fun part begins—serving them up! These smoky, juicy meatballs are perfect as a standalone appetizer or piled onto a slider bun for a delicious twist. Pair them with your favorite sides, like coleslaw or grilled vegetables, for a well-rounded meal. Whether you're hosting a game day gathering or a backyard BBQ, these meatballs are sure to be a hit.

Pro Tip: For the perfect finish, remember to glaze the meatballs in BBQ sauce just before serving for that extra layer of flavor and stickiness that makes them even more irresistible!