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Cheeseburger Pretzel Bombs

Cheeseburger Pretzel Bombs

Savory pretzel pockets filled with seasoned ground beef and melted cheese, capturing classic cheeseburger flavors in a perfect snack or appetizer for any gathering.
Prep Time 1 hour
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 20 minutes
Course Appetizer, Snack
Cuisine American
Servings 14 people
Calories 290 kcal

Equipment

  • 1 large bowl
  • 1 skillet
  • 1 large pot
  • 1 baking sheet lined with parchment paper

Ingredients
  

  • 1 ½ cups warm water 110–115 °F
  • 2 ¼ tsp active dry yeast 1 packet
  • 1 tbsp sugar
  • 4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 tsp salt
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter melted
  • 10 cups water
  • cup baking soda
  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 small onion finely chopped
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese or American cheese
  • 1 large egg beaten (egg wash)
  • Coarse salt

Instructions
 

  • Combine warm water, yeast, and sugar in a large bowl and let sit until foamy, about 5 minutes.
  • Stir in flour, salt, and melted butter until a dough forms.
  • Knead dough for 5 to 7 minutes until smooth and elastic, then cover and let rise for 45 minutes or until doubled.
  • Cook ground beef and onion in a skillet over medium heat until beef is browned and onions are soft.
  • Add garlic powder, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper; stir and remove from heat, letting cool slightly.
  • Mix shredded cheese into the beef mixture.
  • Preheat oven to 425 °F and line a baking sheet with parchment.
  • Punch down dough and divide into 12 to 16 equal pieces.
  • Flatten each piece into a circle and place 1 to 2 tablespoons of the beef and cheese filling in the center.
  • Fold edges up and pinch tightly to seal each dough ball.
  • Bring water and baking soda to a boil in a large pot.
  • Boil each sealed dough ball for about 30 seconds per side, then remove with a slotted spoon.
  • Place boiled pretzel bombs on the baking sheet, brush with egg wash, and sprinkle with coarse salt.
  • Bake for 12 to 15 minutes until deep golden brown.
  • Let cool slightly before serving warm with mustard, ketchup, or cheesy dipping sauce.

Notes

  • Add diced pickles or mustard inside for extra cheeseburger flavor.
  • Use cheddar, American, or a cheese blend for best melty centers.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container up to 2 days and reheat in the oven to keep crisp.