Bourbon BBQ Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs Ready in 30 Minutes

If you’re looking for a quick and delicious meal that will make your taste buds dance, then you’ve come to the right place! These Bourbon BBQ Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs Ready in 30 Minutes are a personal favorite of mine, and I can’t wait to share them with you. They’re perfect for busy weeknights when you want something satisfying without spending all evening in the kitchen. Plus, these subs are great for family gatherings or game day—everyone loves a good meatball sub!

The combination of juicy turkey bacon cheeseburger meatballs simmered in sweet-smoky bourbon BBQ sauce is simply irresistible. And let’s not forget the melty cheese and crispy turkey bacon on top! Trust me, once you try these flavorful subs, they’ll become a staple in your home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to prepare: You can whip these up in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for those hectic evenings.
• Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the savory flavors wrapped in a soft sub roll.
• Make-ahead option: You can prep the meatballs ahead of time and store them in the fridge for an even faster dinner!
• Flavor-packed: The combination of bourbon BBQ sauce and spices ensures a mouthwatering experience with every bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s talk about the ingredients! This recipe uses simple, wholesome items that you might already have in your pantry. Each one plays a crucial role in creating those delicious flavor profiles we all crave. 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 the Cooking

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 cup bourbon BBQ sauce

For Assembling

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

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! You can easily customize it to fit your preferences or dietary needs. Here are some fun ideas:

• Swap the protein: Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option.
• Add veggies: Mix chopped bell peppers or onions into your meatball mixture for added flavor and nutrition.
• Go spicy: Stir in some diced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes into the BBQ sauce for a kick!
• Cheese switch-up: Try different types of cheese like pepper jack or mozzarella for a unique twist on flavor.

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 key; you want tender meatballs, not tough ones!

Step 2: Shape the Meatballs

Now it’s time to form those meatballs! Aim for about 1.5 inches in diameter—this size will cook evenly and fit perfectly into your sub rolls.

Step 3: Brown the Meatballs

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the meatballs in a single layer. Browning them on all sides adds flavor through caramelization and creates that lovely crust we all enjoy.

Step 4: Simmer in Sauce

Once browned, return all meatballs to the skillet and pour bourbon BBQ sauce over them. Lower the heat and let them simmer for about 10 minutes. This step allows those incredible flavors to meld together beautifully!

Step 5: Toast Your Sub Rolls

While your meatballs are simmering away, slice your sub rolls lengthwise without cutting all the way through. Toast them in the oven until golden brown—this will give you that delightful crunch against the juicy meatballs.

Step 6: Assemble Your Subs

Now comes the fun part! Place 4-5 meatballs inside each toasted roll and spoon extra sauce over them. Top with shredded cheddar cheese and crispy turkey bacon pieces—oh my goodness!

Step 7: Melt That Cheese!

For extra-melty cheese goodness, pop those assembled subs back into the oven for another couple of minutes. Trust me; it’s worth it!

Step 8: Serve & Enjoy!

Serve immediately with additional bourbon BBQ sauce on the side for dipping. These subs are sure to impress everyone at your table!

Enjoy every delicious bite of these Bourbon BBQ Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs Ready in 30 Minutes!

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

Creating these scrumptious meatball subs is a breeze, especially with a few handy tips to speed up the process and enhance the flavors!

• Prep Ahead: Chop your ingredients and mix the meatball mixture a few hours in advance. This saves time when you’re ready to cook and allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

• Use a Cookie Scoop: For perfectly sized meatballs, utilize a cookie scoop. This ensures uniformity in size, which leads to even cooking and makes your meal look professionally plated.

• Experiment with Cheese: While cheddar is delightful, don’t hesitate to try other cheeses like pepper jack or gouda for an exciting twist. Different cheeses can add unique flavor profiles that elevate your subs further.

• Don’t Skip Toasting the Rolls: Toasting the sub rolls adds texture and helps prevent them from becoming soggy once you load them with meatballs and sauce. A little crunch goes a long way!

• Sauce it Up: Feel free to adjust the amount of bourbon BBQ sauce according to your taste preferences; more sauce means more flavor! Consider reserving some for dipping on the side.

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

These Bourbon BBQ Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs are not just a meal; they’re an experience! Present them in an inviting way that’ll make everyone eager to dig in.

Garnishes

• Fresh Chopped Parsley: Sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley on top of your subs for a pop of color and added freshness.
• Pickled Jalapeños: Adding pickled jalapeños provides a tangy kick that balances out the sweetness of the bourbon BBQ sauce.

Side Dishes

• Sweet Potato Fries: Crisp and slightly sweet, these fries complement the savory flavors of the subs while adding a nutritious touch.
• Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw with a light vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the rich meatballs, making every bite balanced.
• Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn on the cob brings summer vibes right to your table and pairs wonderfully with BBQ flavors.
• Potato Salad: A classic side dish that’s creamy and satisfying, potato salad rounds out this meal perfectly while keeping it casual and fun.

With these serving suggestions, you’ll create an effortless feast that not only fills bellies but also brings smiles around the table. Enjoy every delicious bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Bourbon BBQ Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs are perfect for meal prep! You can easily whip them up in advance, ensuring you have a delicious meal ready to go any day of the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the meatball subs to cool completely.
• Wrap each sub tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• To freeze, prepare the meatballs and sauce as directed but do not assemble the subs.
• Let the meatballs cool completely before placing them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw overnight in the refrigerator.

Reheating

• For reheating from refrigerated: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove wraps and place subs on a baking sheet. Heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• For frozen meatballs: Thaw overnight, then follow the reheating instructions above or heat directly from frozen in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water until heated through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about making Bourbon BBQ Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs.

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef for Bourbon BBQ Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs Ready in 30 Minutes?

Absolutely! Ground turkey works beautifully in this recipe, providing a leaner option while still delivering great flavor. Just ensure to adjust cooking times if needed.

What can I substitute for breadcrumbs in this recipe?

If you’re looking for gluten-free options, crushed gluten-free crackers or almond flour can be great alternatives for breadcrumbs. They will help bind your meatballs just as effectively!

How spicy is the bourbon BBQ sauce?

The level of spiciness can vary by brand, but most bourbon BBQ sauces strike a balance between sweet and tangy with mild heat. If you prefer more spice, feel free to add a dash of hot sauce or cayenne pepper!

What can I serve with these meatball subs?

These meatball subs pair wonderfully with a side salad, sweet potato fries, or even roasted vegetables to round out your meal!

Final Thoughts

I’m so excited for you to try these Bourbon BBQ Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs! They’re not only quick and easy to make but also packed with flavor that everyone will love. I hope you enjoy preparing this delightful recipe as much as I do and find it brings smiles around your table. Happy cooking!