Very few things in life are as satisfying as biting into a warm, cheesy, meaty pretzel bomb. Imagine all the flavors of your favorite cheeseburger wrapped in a soft, salty pretzel crust. It’s a game-changer for your snack game and a surefire hit at any gathering.
Why This Recipe Works
- The combination of juicy ground beef, melty cheese, and a soft pretzel exterior creates a perfect balance of textures and flavors.
- Using store-bought pizza dough saves time without sacrificing taste or quality.
- The pretzel boiling step gives these bombs their signature chewy texture and glossy finish.
- They’re customizable with your favorite burger toppings, making them versatile for any taste.
- Perfect for parties, game days, or a fun family dinner, these bombs are always a hit.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend for best flavor)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup diced onions
- 1 tbsp mustard
- 1 tbsp ketchup
- 1 lb store-bought pizza dough
- 1/4 cup baking soda (for boiling)
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- Coarse sea salt, for sprinkling
Equipment Needed
- Large pot
- Slotted spoon
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Mixing bowls
- Pastry brush
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Filling
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, shredded cheddar cheese, diced onions, mustard, and ketchup. Mix until all ingredients are evenly distributed. Tip: For an extra flavor boost, consider adding a pinch of garlic powder or smoked paprika to the mixture.
Step 2: Form the Bombs
Divide the pizza dough into 12 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball, then flatten into a disc. Place a tablespoon of the beef mixture in the center of each disc, then pinch the edges together to seal. Tip: Make sure the edges are well-sealed to prevent the cheese from leaking out during baking.
Step 3: Boil the Bombs
Bring a large pot of water to a boil and add the baking soda. Carefully drop the bombs into the boiling water, working in batches if necessary. Boil for 30 seconds, then remove with a slotted spoon and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Tip: The boiling step is crucial for achieving that classic pretzel texture, so don’t skip it!
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Preheat your oven to 400°F. Brush each bomb with the beaten egg and sprinkle with coarse sea salt. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the bombs are golden brown and the filling is cooked through. Let cool for a few minutes before serving.
Tips and Tricks
For those looking to take their cheeseburger pretzel bombs to the next level, consider these advanced tips. First, experiment with different cheeses, such as pepper jack for a spicy kick or Swiss for a more nuanced flavor. Second, try adding finely chopped pickles or jalapeños to the filling for an extra crunch and burst of flavor. Lastly, for a truly gourmet touch, serve the bombs with a side of homemade beer cheese sauce or spicy aioli for dipping.
Recipe Variations
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute the ground beef with a plant-based ground meat alternative and use vegan cheese.
- Spicy Version: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the beef mixture for those who like it hot.
- BBQ Twist: Mix in some BBQ sauce with the beef and top with crispy fried onions after baking.
- Breakfast Bombs: Fill the dough with scrambled eggs, cheese, and cooked bacon or sausage for a morning treat.
- Dessert Bombs: For a sweet version, fill the dough with Nutella or peanut butter and sprinkle with cinnamon sugar after baking.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these bombs ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the bombs up to the boiling step, then freeze them on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer to a zip-top bag. When ready to bake, boil and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Store any leftover bombs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or toaster oven to maintain the pretzel’s texture.
Can I use homemade pizza dough?
Yes, homemade pizza dough works great if you have the time. Just ensure it’s a recipe that yields a soft, pliable dough suitable for wrapping around the filling.
Summary
Cheeseburger pretzel bombs are a fun, delicious twist on two classic favorites. Easy to make and endlessly customizable, they’re perfect for any occasion. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or experiment with your own variations, these bombs are sure to impress.
