Sticky Bacon and Whiskey Meatballs

Not only does paprika makes these meatballs taste even better, but it makes the smell coming from the slow cooker hypnotizing. Seriously, one waft will draw everyone over– in fact, there might be an actual stampede toward your slow cooker when you make these Sticky Bacon and Whiskey Meatballs.

Ingredients

For the Meatballs:

  • 8 ounces uncooked bacon
  • 1/2 yellow onion, chopped
  • 4 cloves garlic, chopped
  • 1 1/2 pounds ground beef
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • 2 tablespoons fresh chopped parsley
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon Kosher salt

For the Sauce:

  • 1 cup barbecue sauce
  • 1/4 cup whiskey
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar
  • 2 teaspoons hot chili flakes
  • Chopped chives, to top

Instructions

  1. In the bowl of a food processor, combine the bacon, onion, and garlic. Process the bacon is entirely ground and no large chunks remain.
  2. Preheat the broiler. Transfer the bacon mixture to a large bowl and mix in the ground beef, breadcrumbs, parsley, egg, and seasonings. Roll the meat mixture into golf ball-sized balls and place on a baking sheet.
  3. Broil the meatballs until browned on top, about 7 minutes.
  4. Meanwhile, whisk together the sauce ingredients in the slow cooker. Add the meatballs and cook on high for 1-2 hours or low for 3-4 hours. Switch the slow cooker to warm and serve.