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Cheesy Beef Pretzel Bombs Recipe

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4.3 from 14 reviews

Pretzel Bombs are deliciously soft pretzel dough pockets filled with a savory mix of ground beef, onions, ketchup, mustard, pickle relish, and melted cheddar cheese. These cheesy, meaty bites are boiled in baking soda water for that perfect pretzel texture and then baked to golden perfection, making them a perfect appetizer or snack to share.

  • Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
  • Yield: 16 servings

Ingredients

Beef Filling

  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
  • 1/4 cup ketchup
  • 2 tbsp mustard
  • 1/4 cup pickle relish
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Dough

  • 1 1/2 cups warm water (110°F)
  • 1 packet active dry yeast (2 1/4 tsp)
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted

Boiling & Finishing

  • 10 cups water
  • 2/3 cup baking soda
  • 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
  • Coarse sea salt (for sprinkling)

Instructions

  1. Cook Beef: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and chopped onion until the beef is browned and the onion is tender. Drain any excess fat from the skillet.
  2. Add Condiments: Stir in the ketchup, mustard, and pickle relish into the beef mixture. Cook for an additional 2 minutes to allow flavors to meld, then remove from heat.
  3. Mix In Cheese: Allow the beef mixture to cool slightly, then fold in the shredded cheddar cheese until evenly combined.
  4. Dissolve Yeast: In a large bowl, dissolve the active dry yeast and sugar in the warm water. Let the mixture sit for 5 minutes or until it becomes foamy, indicating the yeast is activated.
  5. Make Dough: Add the flour, salt, and melted butter to the yeast mixture. Stir until a dough forms and begins to come together.
  6. Knead Dough: Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead it for about 5 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise for 1 hour or until it doubles in size.
  7. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
  8. Shape Dough: Punch down the risen dough to release air. Divide the dough into 16 equal pieces.
  9. Fill Dough: Flatten each dough piece into a small circle. Place approximately 1 tablespoon of the beef and cheese filling into the center of each.
  10. Seal Dough: Fold the edges of the dough over the filling, pinching all sides to seal completely. Roll each filled dough piece gently into a ball and place on the prepared baking sheet.
  11. Boil Water: In a large pot, bring 10 cups of water and 2/3 cup of baking soda to a rolling boil.
  12. Cook Pretzel Bombs: Carefully drop each pretzel bomb into the boiling baking soda water for 30 seconds. Remove with a slotted spoon and return to the baking sheet.
  13. Apply Egg Wash: Brush each pretzel bomb with the beaten egg to help achieve a shiny golden crust. Sprinkle with coarse sea salt for authentic flavor and texture.
  14. Bake: Bake the pretzel bombs in the preheated oven for 12 to 15 minutes or until they turn a deep golden brown.
  15. Serve: Allow the pretzel bombs to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy these warm, cheesy, and meaty treats as a satisfying snack or appetizer.

Notes

  • You can substitute yellow mustard with Dijon or spicy mustard for a different flavor profile.
  • If you want a softer pretzel, reduce baking soda in boiling water slightly or boil them for less time.
  • The filling can be prepared a day ahead and refrigerated for convenience.
  • Be mindful when sealing the dough to avoid leakage during boiling and baking.
  • Serve with mustard or cheese sauce dip for added flavor.
  • Author: Olivia
  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
  • Category: Appetizer
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American