Bourbon BBQ Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs Ready in 30 Minutes

If you’re looking for a quick and delicious meal that will impress your family or friends, these Bourbon BBQ Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs Ready in 30 Minutes are just what you need! This recipe is a perfect blend of flavors that transform simple ingredients into something truly special. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a weekend gathering, these meatball subs are always a hit.

What makes this dish so beloved is how effortlessly it combines comfort food with a fun twist. The juicy meatballs simmered in sweet-smoky BBQ sauce, paired with crispy turkey bacon and melted cheese, create an explosion of flavor in every bite. Plus, who doesn’t love a meal that’s easy to prepare and even easier to devour?

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to make: These subs come together in just 30 minutes, perfect for those hectic evenings.
• Family-approved: With the savory flavors of BBQ and cheese, everyone will be asking for seconds.
• Customizable: Feel free to mix things up with different sauces or toppings to suit your taste!
• Comforting goodness: The warm meatballs and crispy bacon create that cozy feeling we all crave.
• Perfect for gatherings: These meatball subs are great for parties or game days—they’re fun to share!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients that will make these Bourbon BBQ Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs shine! You probably already have most of them on hand. Here’s what you’ll need:

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 and Assembly

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 cup bourbon BBQ sauce
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 4 sub rolls
• 8 slices crispy Turkey Bacon

Variations

One of the best things about these meatball subs is their flexibility! Here are some fun variations you can try:

• Swap the protein: Use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option while keeping all the flavor.
• Change the cheese: Experiment with different cheeses like pepper jack or mozzarella for a unique twist.
• Add veggies: Toss in some sautéed onions or bell peppers for extra crunch and nutrition.
• Try different sauces: Switch out the bourbon BBQ sauce for teriyaki or spicy buffalo sauce if you’re feeling adventurous!

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

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that when you’re ready to toast your sub rolls, they’ll come out perfectly golden and crisp.

Step 2: Prepare the Meatball Mixture

In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix gently until everything is just combined. Be careful not to overmix; this helps keep your meatballs tender!

Step 3: Form the Meatballs

Using your hands, shape the mixture into meatballs about 1.5 inches in diameter. You should end up with approximately 16-20 meatballs. The size is perfect for fitting snugly into your sub rolls.

Step 4: Brown the Meatballs

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the meatballs in a single layer—work in batches if necessary. Brown them on all sides for about 5-7 minutes total. This step adds great flavor and texture!

Step 5: Simmer with Sauce

Once browned, return all meatballs to the skillet and pour the bourbon BBQ sauce over them. Reduce heat to low and simmer for about 10 minutes while stirring gently from time to time. This allows those delicious flavors to meld beautifully together.

Step 6: Toast Your Sub Rolls

While your meatballs are simmering away, slice each sub roll lengthwise without cutting all the way through. Place them on a baking sheet and pop them into your preheated oven for about 5 minutes until they’re golden brown.

Step 7: Assemble Your Subs

Place 4-5 meatballs inside each toasted roll and spoon some extra sauce over them. Don’t be shy—this is where all that flavorful goodness comes together!

Step 8: Add Cheese and Turkey Bacon

Top each sub with about ¼ cup shredded cheddar cheese and two slices of crispy turkey bacon (you can break them into smaller pieces if desired).

Step 9: Melt That Cheese!

For extra melty goodness, return the assembled subs to the oven for another 2-3 minutes until the cheese is fully melted.

Step 10: Serve and Enjoy!

Serve immediately with additional bourbon BBQ sauce on the side for dipping. These subs are sure to please anyone at your table! Enjoy every delicious bite!

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

These meatball subs are sure to impress, and with a few simple tips, you can make them even better!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh herbs and spices can elevate the flavor of your meatballs and sauce. Consider using fresh garlic or adding chopped parsley for an extra burst of flavor.

• Don’t skip the browning step: Browning the meatballs adds a delicious depth of flavor that enhances the overall taste of the dish. It creates a beautiful caramelization that will take your subs to another level.

• Customize your BBQ sauce: If you’re feeling adventurous, try mixing in a little honey or hot sauce into your bourbon BBQ sauce for a sweet or spicy kick. Personalizing the sauce allows you to cater it to your family’s taste preferences.

• Experiment with cheese: While cheddar is classic, feel free to mix it up with other cheeses like pepper jack for some heat or mozzarella for a melty texture. Switching cheeses can give each sub its unique flair.

• Prep ahead for speed: You can make the meatballs ahead of time and freeze them. When you’re ready to eat, just pop them in the skillet with the BBQ sauce for a quick meal. This saves time on busy days!

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

Serving these scrumptious meatball subs is all about presentation and pairing them with delightful accompaniments. Here are some ideas to make your meal shine!

Garnishes

• Chopped green onions: Sprinkle some freshly chopped green onions on top for a pop of color and fresh flavor that complements the richness of the meatballs.
• Pickle slices: Add crisp pickle slices on top or on the side for a tangy crunch that balances out the savory flavors beautifully.

Side Dishes

• Sweet potato fries: Their natural sweetness pairs wonderfully with BBQ flavors. Bake or air-fry until crispy for a healthier twist on traditional fries.

• Coleslaw: A refreshing coleslaw adds crunch and acidity, cutting through the richness of the meatballs. A vinegar-based slaw works particularly well.

• Corn on the cob: Grilled or boiled corn adds a sweet touch and is easy to enjoy while holding your sub. Plus, it’s always a crowd-pleaser!

• Potato salad: A classic side dish that’s creamy and comforting; it complements the heartiness of your subs without overwhelming them.

Now you’re all set to create and serve these incredible Bourbon BBQ Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs! Enjoy every bite, knowing that you’ve crafted something truly special in just 30 minutes!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Bourbon BBQ Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs are not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can easily make them ahead of time, ensuring you have a tasty meal ready to go during your busy week.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover meatball subs in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• They will stay fresh for up to 3 days.
• If possible, keep the meatballs and rolls separate to maintain their texture.

Freezing

• To freeze, allow the cooked meatballs to cool completely.
• Place the meatballs in a freezer-safe bag or container and freeze for up to 3 months.
• You can also freeze the BBQ sauce separately if desired.

Reheating

• To reheat from frozen, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Heat meatballs in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, about 10 minutes.
• Alternatively, microwave meatballs on high for 1-2 minutes until heated thoroughly.

FAQs

If you have questions about these delicious subs, I’ve got you covered!

How can I make Bourbon BBQ Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs Ready in 30 Minutes healthier?

You can use leaner ground turkey or chicken instead of beef and incorporate whole-grain breadcrumbs. Adding extra veggies like diced bell peppers or onions into the meatball mixture is another great way to boost nutrition!

Can I prepare Bourbon BBQ Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs Ready in 30 Minutes ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the meatballs and sauce ahead of time, store them in the fridge, and quickly assemble your subs when you’re ready to eat.

What kind of BBQ sauce works best?

A sweet and smoky bourbon-style BBQ sauce pairs beautifully with these meatballs. Look for one that has a balance of sweetness without being overly sugary for the best flavor!

Can I substitute Turkey Bacon in this recipe?

Yes! If you prefer a different type of bacon, feel free to use turkey bacon alternatives or even crispy veggie bacon to suit your taste preferences.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these Bourbon BBQ Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs as much as I do! They’re a delightful twist on classic flavors that are sure to impress your family or friends. Whether it’s a cozy dinner at home or a fun gathering, these subs bring everyone together. Happy cooking!