First things first, let's get that oven toasty! Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). While it's heating up, grab a baking sheet and line it with parchment paper. This makes cleanup a breeze!

Now, let's get our dough ready. Divide your rested pizza dough into 14 equal portions. You can eyeball it or use a kitchen scale if you want to be super precise.

Take one portion of dough and flatten it out into a small disc. Imagine you're making a tiny pizza base.

In the center of each dough disc, place one half-slice of American cheese and one thawed mini meatball. This is where the magic starts!

Time to seal the deal! Carefully pinch the edges of the dough together all around the cheese and meatball. Make sure to seal them up completely to form a nice, round ball. You don't want any cheesy surprises escaping!

In a large pot or a trusty Dutch oven, combine your baking soda and water. Bring this mixture to a rolling boil over medium-high heat. This is our pretzel bath!

Once the baking soda solution is boiling, it's time for the plunge! Carefully drop 3-4 dough balls into the boiling water at a time. Don't overcrowd the pot, or they won't get that perfect pretzel coating. Let them boil for about 30 seconds on each side. You'll see them puff up a little.

Using a slotted spoon (or a spider strainer if you have one!), gently lift the boiled dough balls out of the water and place them back onto your prepared baking sheet.

Now for a little polish! Lightly brush the tops of the dough balls with your beaten egg. This helps the salt stick and gives them that lovely golden sheen.

Generously sprinkle the tops with coarse sea salt. Don't be shy – this is what makes them truly taste like a pretzel!

Pop them into your preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until they're beautifully golden brown and look perfectly cooked through.

And there you have it! Serve your Cheeseburger Pretzel Bombs hot, with a side of yellow mustard for dipping if you fancy. Enjoy every delicious bite!