Bourbon BBQ Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs Ready in 30 Minutes

If you’re looking for a delicious and quick meal that feels like a treat, these Bourbon BBQ Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs Ready in 30 Minutes are just what you need. Picture this: savory meatballs simmered in a rich, sweet-smoky sauce, nestled in toasty sub rolls with gooey cheese and crispy turkey bacon. It’s comfort food at its best! This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings when you want something special but don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen.

What I love most about these meatball subs is how they transform classic burger flavors into a handheld delight. Plus, they’re sure to be a hit with everyone at the table!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 30 minutes from start to finish, you can whip up this delightful dish without any stress.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves meatballs! These subs are sure to please both kids and adults alike.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare the meatballs ahead of time and store them in the fridge, making dinner even easier.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of bourbon BBQ sauce with seasoned turkey bacon creates layers of flavor that are simply irresistible.
• Customizable: Feel free to make them your own by swapping ingredients or adding your favorite toppings.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make these scrumptious Bourbon BBQ Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs, you’ll only need some simple and wholesome ingredients. Let’s gather everything together!

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! Here are some ideas to switch things up:

• Swap the protein: Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option.
• Change the cheese: Try pepper jack or mozzarella for a different flavor profile.
• Add veggies: Toss in some sautéed onions or bell peppers for an extra crunch.
• Go gluten-free: Substitute regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free ones or skip them entirely.

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 your sub rolls will get perfectly toasted later on.

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. Avoid overmixing to keep your meatballs tender.

Step 3: Form the Meatballs

Shape the mixture into meatballs about 1.5 inches in diameter. You should have around 16-20 meatballs. Making them uniform helps them cook evenly.

Step 4: Brown the Meatballs

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the meatballs in a single layer. Brown them on all sides for about 5-7 minutes; they don’t need to be fully cooked yet as they’ll finish cooking in the sauce.

Step 5: Simmer in Bourbon BBQ Sauce

Once all meatballs are browned, return them to the skillet and pour the bourbon BBQ sauce over them. Reduce heat to low and let them simmer for about 10 minutes. This step infuses all those wonderful flavors together.

Step 6: Toast Your Sub Rolls

While your meatballs are simmering, slice your sub rolls lengthwise without cutting all the way through. Place them on a baking sheet and toast them in the preheated oven for about 5 minutes until they’re golden brown. This adds texture and keeps your subs from getting soggy.

Step 7: Assemble Your Subs

Take each toasted roll and place 4-5 meatballs inside. Spoon extra BBQ sauce over them for extra flavor!

Step 8: Add Cheese and Turkey Bacon

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

Step 9: Melt That Cheese!

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

Step 10: Serve with Extra Sauce

Serve immediately with additional bourbon BBQ sauce on the side for dipping—because who doesn’t love extra sauce?

Enjoy making these Bourbon BBQ Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs! They’re sure to become a family favorite!

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

Creating delicious Bourbon BBQ Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs is a breeze with a few handy tips to ensure your meatballs are juicy and full of flavor!

• Choose the right ground beef: Opting for an 80/20 lean-to-fat ratio will keep your meatballs moist while still providing that satisfying chew. This balance of fat ensures flavor without making them greasy.

• Don’t overmix: When combining the ingredients, mix gently until just incorporated. Overmixing can lead to tough meatballs, so treat them delicately for that perfect tenderness.

• Simmer in sauce: Allowing the browned meatballs to simmer in the bourbon BBQ sauce helps them absorb all those sweet and smoky flavors. It also keeps them juicy and prevents drying out during cooking.

• Toast the rolls properly: Toasting the sub rolls adds a delightful crunch and creates a barrier against sogginess from the sauce. A crispy roll makes every bite more enjoyable!

• Experiment with toppings: Feel free to get creative with toppings! Add sliced jalapeños for heat or fresh cilantro for a burst of freshness. These little additions can elevate your subs to a new level.

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

Presenting your Bourbon BBQ Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs can turn an ordinary meal into an extraordinary dining experience. Here are some fun ideas to make your dish stand out!

Garnishes

• Chopped green onions: Sprinkle some chopped green onions on top of the cheesy subs for a pop of color and mild onion flavor that complements the richness of the meatballs.
• Fresh parsley: Adding finely chopped parsley not only enhances the visual appeal but also provides a fresh herbaceous note that balances the smokiness of the BBQ sauce.

Side Dishes

• Sweet potato fries: Crispy sweet potato fries paired with a dipping sauce add a touch of sweetness and crunch, which pairs wonderfully with the rich flavors of the subs.
• Coleslaw: A refreshing coleslaw adds crunch and acidity, cutting through the richness of the meatballs and cheese. Plus, it’s easy to make ahead!
• Corn on the cob: Grilled or boiled corn on the cob brings bright sweetness to your plate and is perfect for summer gatherings.
• Mixed green salad: A simple mixed greens salad dressed lightly with vinaigrette can bring freshness to your meal, balancing out the savory subs with its crisp textures and flavors.

These serving suggestions not only complement your Bourbon BBQ Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs but also create a delightful dining experience that will leave everyone satisfied! Enjoy crafting this delicious meal!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Bourbon BBQ Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs are fantastic for meal prep! You can make them in advance for busy weeknights or to enjoy later. Here’s how to store them properly:

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the meatball subs to cool completely before storing.
• Place any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• Consume within 3-4 days for best freshness.

Freezing

• For longer storage, freeze the meatballs separately from the bread.
• Wrap each meatball tightly in plastic wrap and then place in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• The toasted sub rolls can be frozen as well; just ensure they are wrapped tightly to prevent freezer burn.
• Enjoy within 2-3 months for optimal taste.

Reheating

• To reheat, thaw meatballs overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• For a quick method, microwave meatballs on a microwave-safe plate until heated through (about 1-2 minutes).
• Reheat sub rolls in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes or until warmed through, then assemble with meatballs and cheese.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this recipe:

Can I make 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, then assemble and heat them up right before serving for a quick meal.

What can I use instead of ground beef for Bourbon BBQ Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs?

You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. Just ensure the fat content is similar for best texture!

How do I ensure my Bourbon BBQ Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs are juicy?

To keep your meatballs juicy, avoid over-mixing the ingredients and don’t skip browning them before simmering in sauce. This adds flavor and moisture.

Can I use a different type of cheese on my subs?

Certainly! While cheddar works beautifully, you could try Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or even pepper jack for a spicy kick.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find these Bourbon BBQ Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs as delightful as I do! They bring together all those familiar flavors we love about burgers but wrapped up in a cozy sub that’s perfect for sharing (or keeping all to yourself!). Enjoy making these scrumptious bites, and don’t hesitate to get creative with toppings or sides. Happy cooking!