Backyard Belly Button Bites

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, egg, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix until fully combined.
2. Form the mixture into small, bite-sized balls. Press a small amount of shredded cheddar into the center of each and seal tightly.
3. Preheat a grill or skillet over medium heat.
4. Place the bites on the grill or in the skillet and cook for 10–12 minutes, turning occasionally, until browned and cooked through.
5. Brush the bites with BBQ sauce during the last 2 minutes of cooking to create a sticky glaze.
6. Remove from heat and let rest for a few minutes before serving.

Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne to the meat mixture.
• Bacon Boost: Mix in crumbled bacon for extra smokiness.
• Cheese Swap: Use pepper jack or smoked gouda for a different flavor profile.
• Skewer Style: Thread onto skewers with peppers and onions for easy grilling.

Tips

• Keep the cheese fully sealed inside to prevent it from leaking during cooking.
• Avoid overmixing the meat to keep the texture tender.
• Turn frequently on the grill to ensure even cooking and prevent burning.
• Serve with toothpicks and dips like ranch, spicy mayo, or extra BBQ sauce for a complete snack spread.