Cheeseburger Pretzel Bombs

Cheeseburger Pretzel Bombs

Ingredients:

For the Pretzel Dough:

• 1 1/2 cups warm water (110°F)
• 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

For the Filling:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1/2 cup diced onions
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 tablespoon ketchup
• 1 tablespoon mustard
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Pretzel Bath:

• 10 cups water
• 2/3 cup baking soda

For the Topping:

• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
• Coarse sea salt

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Dough:
   1. In a large bowl, combine the warm water, yeast, and sugar. Stir until the yeast is dissolved and let sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes foamy.
   2. Add the flour, salt, and melted butter to the yeast mixture. Mix until the dough comes together.
   3. Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
   4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
2. Prepare the Filling:
   1. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and diced onions until the beef is browned and the onions are soft. Drain any excess fat.
   2. Add ketchup, mustard, salt, and pepper to the beef mixture. Stir to combine and remove from heat.
   3. Let the beef mixture cool slightly, then stir in the shredded cheddar cheese.
3. Shape the Pretzel Bombs:
   1. Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
   2. Punch down the dough and divide it into 12 equal pieces.
   3. Flatten each piece of dough into a small circle, about 4 inches in diameter.
   4. Place a spoonful of the beef mixture in the center of each dough circle, then fold the edges of the dough over the filling and pinch to seal, forming a ball.
4. Prepare the Pretzel Bath:
   1. In a large pot, bring the 10 cups of water and the baking soda to a boil.
   2. Carefully drop each dough ball into the boiling water for about 30 seconds, making sure to flip them halfway through.
   3. Remove the dough balls with a slotted spoon and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
5. Bake the Pretzel Bombs:
   1. Brush each pretzel bomb with the beaten egg and sprinkle with coarse sea salt.
   2. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the pretzels are golden brown.
6. Serve:
   1. Allow the pretzel bombs to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm!

These cheeseburger pretzel bombs make for a delicious appetizer or snack, perfect for game days or casual gatherings.