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Cheeseburger Pretzel Bombs

Savory homemade soft pretzel bites stuffed with a juicy seasoned ground beef and cheddar cheese filling. The perfect game day appetizer!
Print Recipe
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 45 minutes
Servings: 16 bombs
Course: Appetizer, Snack
Cuisine: American, Party Food
Calories: 280
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Pretzel Dough
  • 1.5 cups warm water (110°F)
  • 1 tbsp sugar
  • 2.25 tsp active dry yeast (1 packet)
  • 4.5 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 tsp salt
  • 4 tbsp unsalted butter melted
Cheeseburger Filling
  • 1 lb ground beef lean
  • 0.5 cup onion finely chopped
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 cup cheddar cheese shredded
Topping & Bath
  • 0.5 cup baking soda
  • 1 egg beaten with 1 tbsp water
  • 2 tbsp coarse sea salt
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter melted (for brushing)

Equipment

  • Stand mixer or large bowl
  • Large Pot
  • Skillet
  • Baking sheets

Method
 

  1. In a mixer bowl, combine warm water and sugar. Sprinkle yeast on top and let bloom for 5-10 minutes.
  2. Add melted butter (4 tbsp) and salt. Gradually mix in flour until a dough forms. Knead for 5 minutes until smooth.
  3. Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for 1 hour until doubled.
  4. Meanwhile, brown ground beef and onion in a skillet. Drain fat. Stir in seasonings and cheese. Let cool.
  5. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line baking sheets with parchment. Bring a large pot of water to a boil and add baking soda.
  6. Divide dough into 16 pieces. Flatten each, add filling, and pinch tightly to seal into a ball.
  7. Boil each ball for 30 seconds. Remove with slotted spoon and place on baking sheet.
  8. Brush with egg wash and sprinkle with coarse salt. Bake 12-15 minutes until golden brown.
  9. Brush warm bombs with remaining melted butter before serving.

Notes

Serve with mustard or cheese dip. Freeze leftovers for up to 3 months.