Name: Crispy Bacon Double Cheeseburger Sticks
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef (Can substitute with ground turkey or chicken.); 1/2 tsp salt; 1/4 tsp black pepper; 1/4 tsp garlic powder; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (Adds moisture and texture.); 1 large egg; 1/4 cup diced onion; 1/4 cup diced pickles; 8 slices bacon (Partially cooked for crispiness.); 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (Can be substituted with other cheese like pepper jack.); 8 wooden skewers wooden skewers

Step-by-step instructions

Let’s get to the heart of it: how to prepare these delicious sticks. Follow these easy steps for perfect results every time.

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, salt, pepper, garlic powder, breadcrumbs, egg, diced onion, and diced pickles. Mix thoroughly until well incorporated.
Divide the mixture into 8 equal portions. Carefully shape each portion into a long stick around a wooden skewer.
Place the bacon slices on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 10 minutes, just until crispy. Once done, remove from the oven and allow to cool slightly.
Wrap a slice of bacon around each beef stick and place them back on the baking sheet.
Bake for an additional 15 minutes. Then, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the sticks and return to the oven for 5 more minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbling.
Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce and enjoy the crispy, cheesy goodness!

Best ways to enjoy it

When it comes to serving these sticky delights, the options are limitless! A drizzle of barbecue sauce or a dollop of ranch dressing pairs perfectly for dipping. For sides, consider classic options like French fries or a refreshing coleslaw. If you’re feeling adventurous, add a side of crispy onion rings to elevate the experience. Present your sticks on a rustic wooden platter for an attractive serving option that’s sure to impress.

Storage and reheating tips

To keep your leftover cheeseburger sticks fresh, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you’re making them ahead of time, you can freeze them after baking—just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil. To reheat, bake them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.

Helpful cooking tips

Here are a few pro secrets to ensure your Crispy Bacon Double Cheeseburger Sticks turn out perfectly every time:

Make sure to cook the bacon partially before wrapping to ensure it gets crispy without overcooking the beef sticks.
Don’t skip on the breadcrumbs; they add necessary moisture and texture to the beef mixture.
For a flavor boost, consider adding Worcestershire sauce or your favorite seasonings into the ground beef mix.

Creative twists

Feeling adventurous? Here are a few variations to try out:

Swap in your favorite cheese, such as pepper jack or mozzarella, for a different flavor profile.
Add minced jalapeños or chopped green chilies into the meat mixture for a spicy kick.
For a healthier twist, replace the breadcrumbs with crushed tortilla chips or a gluten-free alternative.
Experiment with toppings; try adding a slice of avocado or jalapeños just before serving for an extra zing.

FAQs

What is the prep time for these sticks?

Preparation time is around 15-20 minutes, with an additional 30-35 minutes of cooking time, making it a quick meal solution!

Can I use turkey or chicken instead of ground beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken makes for a lighter version of this recipe while still holding onto great flavor.

How can I safely store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days or freeze them for longer shelf life. Reheat in the oven for best results.

These Crispy Bacon Double Cheeseburger Sticks are sure to become a new favorite in your recipe lineup. Enjoy the crispy bacon, savory beef, and gooey cheese all stacked on a convenient skewer, making it perfect for any gathering or weeknight dinner!