🍳DailyRecipes
Dinner

Cowboy Meatballs

These hearty meatballs are packed with cheddar and bacon then simmered in a smoky, savory BBQ sauce.

By Daily Recipes Book· 🌍 American· August 3, 2026
Cowboy Meatballs
dailyrecipesbook.com
Prep
20 minutes
Cook
20 minutes
Total
40 minutes
Serves
4

Cowboy meatballs are one of those comforting dishes that everyone at the table seems to love. They bring bold flavors to your dinner rotation with a mix of cheesy goodness, crispy bacon, and a little kick of spice from the Rotel.

These meatballs are incredibly versatile for busy weeknights. You can prep them ahead of time and they pair perfectly with mashed potatoes or a fresh side of broccoli for a complete family meal.

Ingredients

  • 1 pound lean ground beef
  • 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese, plus more for garnish
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
  • 1/4 cup finely diced onion
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 tablespoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 6 slices bacon, chopped
  • 1 can (10 ounces) Rotel
  • 1 can (8 ounces) tomato sauce
  • 1 cup BBQ sauce
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • Sliced green onions, for garnish

Instructions

  1. 1

    In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, panko, shredded cheddar, cilantro, onion, egg, chili powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined and roll into 12 large or 20 small meatballs.

  2. 2

    Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the chopped bacon. Cook until the bacon is crispy, then remove it with a slotted spoon to a paper towel lined plate. Leave the rendered fat in the skillet.

  3. 3

    Place the meatballs into the same skillet with the bacon drippings. Cook for about 7 to 8 minutes, turning them occasionally, until they are browned on all sides and cooked through. Remove the meatballs to a plate and cover with foil to keep them warm.

  4. 4

    In the same skillet, add the Rotel, tomato sauce, BBQ sauce, and chicken broth. Whisk everything together, bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer.

  5. 5

    Add the cooked bacon and meatballs back into the skillet. Let everything simmer together for 3 to 4 minutes until the sauce reduces slightly. Garnish with extra shredded cheddar and green onions before serving.

💡 Tips

Use a cookie scoop to ensure your meatballs are all the same size so they cook evenly. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days and gently reheat them on the stovetop.

#meatballs#comfort food#dinner#easy dinner#bbq

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