Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This temperature is perfect for achieving a golden, crispy exterior while keeping the inside nice and gooey.

Step 2: Cook the Beef

In your skillet, add the ground beef over medium heat. As it cooks, use a spatula to break it apart, allowing it to brown evenly. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Once browned, drain any excess fat to keep your pretzel bombs from becoming greasy. Next, stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to ensure every bite is packed with flavor!

Step 3: Assemble the Bombs

On a lightly floured surface, roll out your refrigerated pizza dough. Cut the dough into squares, approximately 4×4 inches. Place a generous spoonful of the beef mixture in the center of each square. Top with a sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese and some chopped bacon. Don’t skimp on these delicious fillings!

Step 4: Seal & Brush

Now, it’s time to fold the dough over the filling to form a ball. Pinch the edges tightly to seal them, ensuring that no filling escapes during baking. Once sealed, place the bombs seam-side down on your prepared baking sheet. To give your pretzel bombs that golden sheen, brush the tops with the beaten egg and sprinkle them with coarse sea salt. This step is crucial for enhancing the pretzel-like flavor!

Step 5: Bake & Serve

Place your baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the bombs are golden brown and puffed up. Keep an eye on them; you want them to look irresistible! Once done, brush them with melted butter for that extra touch of flavor and gleam. If you’re feeling fancy, garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.