Cheeseburger Pretzel Bombs

Cheeseburger Pretzel Bombs: A Fun, Cheesy, and Savory Snack Recipe

If you’re a fan of cheeseburgers and love the chewy goodness of soft pretzels, these Cheeseburger Pretzel Bombs are the perfect treat! Imagine juicy, seasoned beef and gooey melted cheese wrapped inside soft pretzel dough. Each bite-sized bomb bursts with flavor, making them an ideal appetizer for game day, parties, or even a family movie night. These bite-sized snacks are easy to make and combine two comfort food favorites in one delicious package.

Ingredients

For these cheesy, savory pretzel bombs, you’ll need the following:

Cheeseburger Filling

• 1/2 lb ground beef
• 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 8-10 small cheddar cheese cubes (about 1/2 inch each)

Pretzel Dough

• 1 1/2 cups warm water
• 1 packet active dry yeast (2 1/4 teaspoons)
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons melted butter

Pretzel Bath

• 1/4 cup baking soda
• 4 cups water

Topping

• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
• Coarse sea salt (for sprinkling)

Preparation

Prepare the Cheeseburger Filling

1. In a skillet, cook the ground beef and chopped onion over medium heat until browned and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes.
2. Add garlic powder, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
3. Remove from heat, drain any excess fat, and set aside to cool slightly.

Make the Pretzel Dough

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
2. Add flour, salt, and melted butter to the yeast mixture, stirring to combine.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it, and let it rise in a warm area for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.

Assemble the Pretzel Bombs

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Punch down the dough and divide it into 8-10 equal pieces.
3. Flatten each piece into a small circle and place a spoonful of the beef mixture and a cheese cube in the center.
4. Wrap the dough around the filling, pinching the edges to seal completely. Repeat with remaining dough and filling.

Prepare the Baking Soda Bath

1. In a medium pot, bring 4 cups of water to a boil. Slowly add the baking soda (it will bubble up).
2. Carefully dip each pretzel bomb into the baking soda bath for 20-30 seconds, then place them on the baking sheet.

Bake the Pretzel Bombs

1. Brush each pretzel bomb with beaten egg and sprinkle with coarse sea salt.
2. Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until golden brown on top.
3. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving.

Variations on Cheeseburger Pretzel Bombs

• Bacon Cheeseburger Bombs: Add a bit of crumbled cooked bacon to the filling for a smoky twist.
• Spicy Jalapeño Bombs: Place a slice of fresh or pickled jalapeño with the cheese for a spicy kick.
• Veggie Bombs: Replace ground beef with finely diced mushrooms, bell peppers, and onions for a vegetarian option.

Cooking Note

The baking soda bath is key to achieving that classic pretzel flavor and a golden-brown color. Be sure to let each pretzel bomb bathe in the solution for 20-30 seconds before baking. This step also helps create the chewy texture you expect from a soft pretzel.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your cheeseburger pretzel bombs with a side of dipping sauces like ketchup, mustard, or a creamy cheese sauce. They’re also delicious with ranch or a tangy barbecue sauce.

Tips for Success

• Keep the Dough Sealed: Ensure that the dough is well-sealed around the filling to prevent any cheese from leaking out during baking.
• Make Ahead: You can assemble the pretzel bombs, refrigerate them, and bake them just before serving for fresh results.
• Customize the Cheese: Try using other cheeses, such as mozzarella or pepper jack, for different flavors.

Prep Time, Cook Time, and Total Time

• Prep Time: 1 hour 30 minutes (including rising time)
• Cook Time: 15-18 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 210
• Protein: 8 g
• Fat: 8 g
• Carbohydrates: 28 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Sugar: 1 g

Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients.

FAQs about Cheeseburger Pretzel Bombs

Can I freeze cheeseburger pretzel bombs?
Yes, you can freeze them after baking. Simply reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until heated through.

What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Store leftover pretzel bombs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

Can I use store-bought dough?
Yes, if you’re short on time, you can use refrigerated pizza dough. The flavor will be slightly different, but it still works well.

Conclusion

These Cheeseburger Pretzel Bombs are a delightful snack or appetizer, combining the flavors of a juicy cheeseburger with the chewy, golden-brown texture of a soft pretzel. They’re crowd-pleasers and easy to customize with your favorite toppings and cheeses. Perfect for any gathering or just as a fun treat at home, these pretzel bombs are sure to be a hit!