Name: Cheeseburger Pretzel Bombs
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 package (13.8 oz) refrigerated pretzel dough; 1 pound ground beef; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon onion powder; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1/4 cup ketchup; 2 tablespoons yellow mustard; 1 egg, beaten; 2 tablespoons milk; Coarse pretzel salt, for topping

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Crispy on the outside with a chewy pretzel bite that gives way to a juicy, savory center – these Cheeseburger Pretzel Bombs are a flavor explosion in every mouthful. The combination of seasoned ground beef, melted cheddar, and tangy condiments nestled inside soft pretzel dough creates a perfectly balanced and utterly satisfying snack.

This recipe works because it takes the classic comfort food of a cheeseburger and elevates it to a fun, handheld treat. The pretzel dough adds a unique texture and subtle sweetness that complements the savory filling beautifully. These are ideal for game day gatherings, casual parties, or even a fun and easy weeknight dinner.

Why you’ll love this Cheeseburger Pretzel Bombs

These bombs are a fun twist on the classic cheeseburger, offering a unique and delicious experience.
They’re surprisingly easy to make, using refrigerated pretzel dough to save time and effort.
The combination of savory beef, melted cheddar, and tangy condiments is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Perfect as an appetizer for parties or a fun snack for game day, these cheeseburger pretzel bombs are always a hit.
They’re easily customizable – add your favorite toppings or switch up the cheese for a personalized touch.
These handheld treats are perfect for on-the-go snacking or a quick and satisfying meal.

Ingredients & Substitutions

Ingredients for Cheeseburger Pretzel Bombs

1 package (13.8 oz) refrigerated pretzel dough
1 pound ground beef
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/4 cup ketchup
2 tablespoons yellow mustard
1 egg, beaten
2 tablespoons milk
Coarse pretzel salt, for topping

Cheeseburger pretzel bombs makes every moment feel energetic. For a spicier kick, try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper to the ground beef mixture. You can also experiment with different types of cheese like Monterey Jack for a milder flavor or pepper jack for extra heat. If you’re looking for a dipping sauce, try a creamy ranch or a spicy sriracha mayo.

How to make Cheeseburger Pretzel Bombs

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.

Step 2: Cook the Beef

In a skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef until browned, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain off any excess grease. Stir in garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.

Chef’s Tip: Don’t overcrowd the pan when browning the beef; cook it in batches if necessary to ensure even browning.

Step 3: Combine the Filling

Remove from heat and stir in cheddar cheese, ketchup, and mustard. Set aside to cool slightly.

Chef’s Tip: Let the mixture cool slightly before assembling the pretzel bombs to prevent the dough from becoming too soft.

Step 4: Assemble the Bombs

Unroll pretzel dough on a lightly floured surface. Cut into 12 equal pieces.

Chef’s Tip: Use a pizza cutter or bench scraper for even cuts.

Step 5: Fill and Seal

Flatten each piece of dough into a small circle. Place a spoonful of the beef mixture in the center of each circle. Bring the edges of the dough up and pinch to seal, forming a ball. Place seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet.

Chef’s Tip: Make sure to seal the edges tightly to prevent the filling from leaking out during baking.

Step 6: Egg Wash and Salt

In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and milk. Brush the tops of the pretzel bombs with the egg wash. Sprinkle with coarse pretzel salt.

Chef’s Tip: The egg wash gives the pretzel bombs a beautiful golden-brown color and helps the pretzel salt adhere.

Step 7: Bake

Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.

Step 8: Cool and Serve

Let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy!

Tips for Success

Don’t overfill the pretzel bombs; too much filling can make them difficult to seal and cause them to burst during baking.
Make sure the beef mixture is slightly cooled before assembling the pretzel bombs to prevent the dough from becoming too soft and sticky.
For a more authentic pretzel flavor, you can boil the pretzel bombs in a baking soda solution for a few seconds before baking.
Store leftover pretzel bombs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven.

Serving Suggestions

These Cheeseburger Pretzel Bombs are delicious on their own, but they’re even better with a dipping sauce. Try serving them with a side of ranch dressing, mustard, ketchup, or a spicy sriracha mayo. They also pair well with other appetizers like jalapeño popper twists. For a complete meal, serve them alongside a simple salad or some crispy fries.

Storage & Reheating

Store leftover Cheeseburger Pretzel Bombs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave for 30-60 seconds or bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes, or until heated through. For optimal crispness, reheating in an air fryer is also effective; try these easy air fryer banana treats after!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I freeze these cheeseburger pretzel bombs?

Yes, you can freeze them! Allow them to cool completely after baking, then wrap them individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. To reheat, bake from frozen at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through.

Can I use a different type of ground meat?

Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken would work well as a lighter alternative. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time as needed.

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the pretzel bombs ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just be sure to cover them tightly to prevent the dough from drying out. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.

These Cheeseburger Pretzel Bombs are a guaranteed hit, offering a fun and flavorful twist on a classic favorite. The combination of savory beef, melted cheese, and soft pretzel dough is simply irresistible. Give this recipe a try and prepare to be amazed by the burst of cheeseburger goodness in every bite. Don’t forget to leave a comment below and let us know what you think!

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