Bourbon BBQ Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs Ready in 30 Minutes

If you’re looking for a fun and delicious meal that comes together in no time, then you’ve found it with these Bourbon BBQ Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs Ready in 30 Minutes! This recipe is one of my absolute favorites because it combines the smoky sweetness of bourbon BBQ sauce with juicy meatballs, all wrapped up in soft sub rolls and topped with melty cheddar cheese and crispy Turkey Bacon. It’s a flavor explosion that’s perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings when everyone needs a hearty bite.

These subs are not only quick to prepare but also incredibly satisfying. They make the perfect centerpiece for game days, weekend get-togethers, or even just a cozy dinner at home. Trust me, once you try them, they’ll quickly become a staple in your recipe collection!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 30 minutes from start to finish, you can whip these up even on the busiest nights.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the combination of flavors – it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!
• Make Ahead Convenience: Prep the meatballs ahead of time, store them in the fridge, and just heat them up when you’re ready to serve.
• Flavor Packed: The sweet-smoky bourbon BBQ sauce elevates these meatball subs to a whole new level of deliciousness.
• Customizable: Feel free to switch up ingredients or toppings to suit everyone’s taste preferences.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s dive into the simple, wholesome ingredients you’ll need for this delightful dish. Each component plays a key role in creating those mouthwatering flavors that make these subs so special!

For the Meatballs

• 1 lb ground beef (80/20 lean-to-fat ratio)
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 egg
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

For Cooking

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 cup bourbon BBQ sauce

For Assembly

• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 4 sub rolls
• 8 slices crispy Turkey Bacon

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! You can easily adjust it to fit your tastes or what you have on hand. Here are some fun ideas to switch things up:

• Swap the protein: Try using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter version.
• Change the cheese: Experiment with different types of cheese like pepper jack for a spicy kick or mozzarella for a classic touch.
• Add veggies: Sneak in some diced bell peppers or onions into your meat mixture for extra flavor and nutrition.
• Make it spicy: Add some hot sauce or diced jalapeños to the bourbon BBQ sauce for an extra layer of heat.

How to Make Bourbon BBQ Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs Ready in 30 Minutes

Step 1: Prepare the Meatball Mixture

In a large bowl, combine your ground beef with breadcrumbs, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mixing gently until just combined is important because overmixing can lead to tough meatballs. You want them tender and juicy!

Step 2: Form the Meatballs

Form the mixture into meatballs about 1.5 inches in diameter – aim for about 16-20 meatballs total. This size allows them to cook evenly while still being perfect for your subs.

Step 3: Brown the Meatballs

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add your meatballs in a single layer (you may need to work in batches). Browning them on all sides not only adds flavor but also gives that beautiful caramelization that we love!

Step 4: Simmer in BBQ Sauce

Once browned, return all meatballs to the skillet and pour over the bourbon BBQ sauce. Reducing heat to low lets them simmer gently for about 10 minutes. This allows those flavors to meld beautifully while keeping your meatballs moist.

Step 5: Toast Your Sub Rolls

While your meatballs are simmering away, slice your sub rolls lengthwise without cutting all the way through. Placing them on a baking sheet and giving them a quick toast in the oven ensures they hold up well against all that saucy goodness.

Step 6: Assemble Your Subs

Now it’s time for assembly! Place 4-5 meatballs inside each toasted roll and spoon extra sauce over them. Top with shredded cheddar cheese and crispy Turkey Bacon pieces – because who doesn’t love bacon?

Step 7: Melt That Cheese

For an extra-melty finish, pop those assembled subs back into the oven for another couple of minutes until everything is gooey and warm.

Step 8: Serve & Enjoy!

Serve your Bourbon BBQ Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs immediately alongside some extra bourbon BBQ sauce for dipping. Get ready for all those happy faces around the table!

Pro Tips for Making Bourbon BBQ Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs Ready in 30 Minutes

These meatball subs are a breeze to whip up, and with a few handy tips, you can elevate your dish even further!

• Use Lean Ground Beef: Opting for an 80/20 lean-to-fat ratio ensures juicy meatballs while keeping them from becoming too greasy. This balance is perfect for maintaining flavor and texture.

• Preheat Your Oven: While the meatballs are simmering, having your oven ready to toast the sub rolls helps save time. A hot oven gives you perfectly crispy rolls that contrast beautifully with the tender meatballs.

• Mix Gently: When combining your ingredients, mixing just enough to blend ensures your meatballs remain tender. Overworking can lead to dense meatballs, so be gentle!

• Simmer for Flavor: Allowing the meatballs to simmer in the bourbon BBQ sauce not only enhances flavor but also keeps them moist. Make sure to stir occasionally for even coating.

• Experiment with Cheese: While cheddar is a classic choice, feel free to mix things up! Try pepper jack or mozzarella for a different twist on flavor that pairs well with the BBQ sauce.

How to Serve Bourbon BBQ Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs Ready in 30 Minutes

Presentation is key when serving these delicious subs! Here are some fun ideas to make your meal look as good as it tastes.

Garnishes

• Chopped Fresh Parsley: Sprinkling fresh parsley over the top adds a pop of color and freshness that brightens up the dish.
• Pickled Jalapeños: For those who like a little heat, adding pickled jalapeños gives an extra kick that complements the sweetness of the BBQ sauce.

Side Dishes

• Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy sweet potato fries add a lovely sweetness and crunch that pairs excellently with the savory flavors of the subs.
• Coleslaw: A refreshing coleslaw provides a crunchy texture and creamy contrast that balances out the richness of the cheese and turkey bacon.
• Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn on the cob is a classic summer side that brings a touch of sweetness and a fun hand-held element to your meal.
• Potato Wedges: Seasoned potato wedges offer an easy-to-make side that’s crispy on the outside and fluffy inside—perfect for dipping in any leftover bourbon BBQ sauce!

Enjoy crafting this delightful dish—it’s sure to be a hit at any gathering or cozy family dinner!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Bourbon BBQ Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs are perfect for meal prep! Not only do they stay delicious, but they also make weeknight dinners a breeze.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover meatball subs in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• They can be safely kept for up to 3 days.
• If possible, separate the meatballs from the sub rolls to maintain their texture.

Freezing

• To freeze, place individual meatball subs in freezer-safe bags or containers.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

• Reheat the subs in the microwave for about 1-2 minutes or until heated through.
• For a crispy option, heat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes.
• Add a splash of bourbon BBQ sauce if they seem dry during reheating.

FAQs

Got questions? No worries! Here are some common queries about our Bourbon BBQ Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs Ready in 30 Minutes.

Can I use a different type of meat for these meatball subs?

Absolutely! You can substitute ground turkey or chicken if you prefer. Just adjust the seasoning slightly to enhance the flavor.

How do I make Bourbon BBQ Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs Ready in 30 Minutes more spicy?

For an extra kick, add crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the meat mixture. You can also use a spicier BBQ sauce.

What should I serve with my Bourbon BBQ Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs Ready in 30 Minutes?

These subs pair wonderfully with a side of sweet potato fries, coleslaw, or a fresh garden salad!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these Bourbon BBQ Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs! They’re not just satisfying; they’re a wonderful way to bring friends and family together around the dinner table. Enjoy every bite and make some delightful memories while you’re at it. Happy cooking!