Turkey Cheeseburger Meatballs

Published: August 15, 2025

by Lucille

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Low-Carb Delight: Enjoy the flavors of a cheeseburger without the extra carbs.
Easy to Prepare: Whip up this recipe in just over an hour, making it perfect for weeknight dinners.
Flavorful Ingredients: The blend of turkey bacon, Swiss cheese, and dill pickles adds a delicious kick.
Versatile Meal Option: Serve as an appetizer, main dish, or even in salads or sandwiches.
Make Ahead: These meatballs store well in the fridge or freezer, making meal prep simple.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into cooking your Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatballs, gather your tools and prepare your workspace for efficiency.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Mixing bowl
Baking sheet
Grill pan (or stovetop grill)
Meat thermometer (optional)
Measuring cup

Importance of Each Tool

Mixing bowl: A sturdy bowl allows you to combine ingredients without mess.
Meat thermometer: Ensures perfect doneness for juicy meatballs and food safety.
Grill pan: Provides an ideal surface for cooking meatballs evenly while achieving that delicious grilled flavor.

Ingredients

These low-carb Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatballs have all the comfort food appeal of grilled Turkey Bacon cheeseburgers, without the carbs!

For the Meatballs

1 lb. lean ground beef
2 tsp. steak seasoning (see notes)
1/2 tsp. fresh-ground black pepper
1 egg
6 slices Turkey Bacon, crumbled (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: Combine Ground Beef Mixture

In a mixing bowl, combine the lean ground beef with steak seasoning and black pepper. Add one egg to bind everything together.

Step 2: Prepare Add-ins

Crisp up the turkey bacon in a skillet. Once crispy, crumble it into small pieces. Dice the dill pickles and cut Swiss cheese into tiny cubes.

Step 3: Mix Everything Together

Add the crumbled turkey bacon, diced pickles, and cheese cubes to the ground beef mixture. Gently combine using your hands—be careful not to over-mix as this can lead to tough meatballs.

Step 4: Form Meatballs

Using a 1/4 cup measuring cup, scoop out portions of the beef mixture. Form each portion into a ball while tucking some cheese inside so it melts during cooking.

Step 5: Chill Meatballs

Place formed meatballs on a baking sheet. Refrigerate them for 30-40 minutes; chilling helps maintain their shape when grilling.

Step 6: Preheat Grill and Pan

Heat your grilling pan on top of grill grates while preheating your grill to medium-high heat. A stovetop grill pan can also be preheated if preferred.

Step 7: Brush Olive Oil

Remove meatballs from refrigeration. Lightly brush both sides with olive oil to help prevent sticking during grilling.

Step 8: Cook Meatballs

Place meatballs on the grilling pan. Turn them every two minutes until they are browned on all sides.

Step 9: Check for Doneness

After about 15 minutes of cooking time, check if they’re done using an instant-read meat thermometer aiming for an internal temperature of at least 160°F/71°C.

Step 10: Serve Hot

Serve hot with dipping sauce on the side if desired. These meatballs also pair well with fresh vegetables or salad!

Step 11: Enjoy Leftovers

These 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 can be a fun and creative experience. These meatballs are versatile and can be paired with various sides or sauces to please any palate.

With Dipping Sauces

Ketchup: A classic condiment that pairs well with the savory flavors.
Mustard: Adds a tangy kick that enhances the cheeseburger taste.
Ranch Dressing: Creamy and herby, it’s perfect for dipping.
Barbecue Sauce: A sweet and smoky option that complements the meatballs nicely.

On a Bun

Slider Buns: Create mini burgers by placing meatballs on small buns, topped with cheese and pickles.
Lettuce Wraps: For a low-carb option, wrap meatballs in lettuce leaves with your favorite toppings.

As Part of a Salad

Garden Salad: Toss meatballs over mixed greens with your choice of dressing for a hearty meal.
Caesar Salad: Add meatballs to a Caesar salad for an extra protein boost.

How to Perfect Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatballs

To make these Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatballs truly shine, consider these essential tips.

Use Lean Beef: Opt for lean ground beef to keep the meatballs juicy without excess fat.
Don’t Overmix: Gently combine ingredients to maintain tenderness in the meatballs.
Chill Before Cooking: Refrigerating the formed meatballs helps them hold their shape during grilling.
Check Temperature: Use an instant-read thermometer to ensure they reach 160°F for safe eating.
Experiment with Cheese: Try different cheeses like cheddar or pepper jack for varied flavors.
Add Fresh Herbs: Incorporate fresh herbs like parsley or chives for added freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatballs

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

Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy and slightly sweet, they complement the savory flavors perfectly.
Coleslaw: A refreshing side that adds crunch and balances the richness of the meatballs.
Zucchini Noodles: A healthy alternative to pasta that pairs well with Italian-inspired sauces.
Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal veggies like bell peppers and zucchini add color and nutrients to your plate.
Cauliflower Mash: A low-carb substitute for mashed potatoes that is creamy and satisfying.
Corn on the Cob: Sweet and buttery corn adds a classic touch to your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatballs, it’s easy to make mistakes that could affect the final result. Here are some common pitfalls and how to avoid them:

Overmixing the Ingredients: Mixing too much can make meatballs tough. Gently combine the ingredients until just mixed for tender meatballs.
Skipping Chill Time: Not refrigerating the meatballs before cooking can lead to them falling apart on the grill. Always chill them for 30-40 minutes to help maintain their shape.
Ignoring Doneness: Failing to check the internal temperature can result in undercooked meatballs. Use a thermometer to ensure they reach at least 160°F (70°C).
Using Low-Quality Ingredients: Poor-quality Turkey Bacon or cheese can affect flavor. Opt for fresh ingredients for the best taste and texture.
Not Brushing with Oil: Skipping the olive oil brush can cause sticking on the grill. Always apply a light coat of oil on both sides to prevent this issue.
Neglecting Seasoning Adjustments: Every palate is different. Don’t hesitate to adjust seasonings, like adding garlic powder or extra spices, to suit your taste.

Refrigerator Storage

Store leftover Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatballs in an airtight container.
They will last up to 4 days in the refrigerator.
Label containers with the date for easy tracking.

Freezing Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatballs

Freeze meatballs in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer-safe container.
They can be stored for up to 3 months in the freezer.
Make sure to label containers with dates and contents for easy identification.

Reheating Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatballs

Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through.
Microwave: Place meatballs on a microwave-safe plate and heat in short intervals (30 seconds), checking frequently until hot.
Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat with a little oil, then add meatballs, turning occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for lean ground beef in this recipe. It will still yield delicious Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatballs!

How do I customize my Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatballs?

Feel free to add your favorite spices or change up the cheese type. Options like cheddar or pepper jack can enhance flavor!

Are these meatballs low-carb?

Absolutely! These Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatballs are low-carb, making them perfect for keto diets or anyone watching their carb intake.

What dipping sauces pair well with these meatballs?

You can serve these meatballs with various dipping sauces like ranch dressing, barbecue sauce, or even a spicy mustard for an extra kick!

Final Thoughts

Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatballs are not only tasty but also versatile and perfect for meal prep. Whether you want them as a main dish or an appetizer, they fit any occasion. Feel free to customize the ingredients based on your preferences and enjoy this comforting yet low-carb delight!

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