Cheeseburger Pretzel Bombs

⏱️ Time Breakdown

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Servings: 8-10 bombs

📝 Ingredients List

• 1 lb lean ground beef
• 1/2 cup finely diced onion
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup ketchup
• 2 tablespoons yellow mustard
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (ensure no alcohol content)
• 1 package (16 oz) refrigerated pizza dough
• 1/4 cup baking soda (for the boiling water bath)
• 1 tablespoon coarse sea salt
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

✨ Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

This recipe doesn’t require fancy gadgets, just a few reliable kitchen basics to keep everything simple and stress-free.

• Large skillet or frying pan
• Sharp knife
• Cutting board
• Measuring cups & spoons
• Large stockpot (for boiling)
• Slotted spoon
• Baking sheet lined with parchment paper
• Small mixing bowl

Step-by-Step Beginner-Friendly Instructions

1. Prepare the Filling: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef with the diced onions until the meat is fully cooked and onions are translucent. Drain excess grease.
2. Season: Stir in the ketchup, mustard, and Worcestershire sauce. Simmer for 2 minutes until the mixture is thick. Remove from heat and stir in the shredded cheese until melted. Set aside to cool slightly.
3. Preheat and Boil: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Bring a large pot of water to a boil and stir in the baking soda.
4. Shape the Bombs: Divide the pizza dough into 8-10 equal portions. Flatten each piece into a circle and place a spoonful of the beef mixture in the center. Fold the edges up and pinch tightly to seal into a ball.
5. The Pretzel Bath: Carefully drop each ball into the boiling water for 30 seconds using your slotted spoon. Remove and place on the baking sheet.
6. Bake: Brush the tops with egg wash and sprinkle with sea salt. Bake for 12-15 minutes until deep golden brown. Enjoy warm! 😋

💡 Pro Tips

• Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in an air fryer to maintain the crispy crust.
• Freezing: You can freeze the assembled, unbaked bombs and bake them straight from frozen for an extra 5 minutes.
• Substitutions: Not a fan of beef? You can easily substitute with ground turkey or even finely chopped chicken strips for a leaner twist.

FAQ

Can I use store-bought pretzel dough? Yes! If your grocery store carries pre-made soft pretzel dough, it works perfectly and saves even more time.

Why do I need to boil them? The baking soda water bath is the secret to getting that signature dark, chewy, authentic pretzel exterior.