Bourbon BBQ Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs Ready in 30 Minutes

If you’re looking for a quick and delicious meal that the whole family will love, these Bourbon BBQ Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs Ready in 30 Minutes are just the ticket! They take the classic flavors of a cheeseburger and transform them into a fun, handheld delight. What’s more, the juicy meatballs simmered in sweet-smoky BBQ sauce are perfectly complemented by crispy turkey bacon and ooey-gooey cheese. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a casual gathering with friends, this recipe is sure to impress!

These subs are not only flavorful but also incredibly easy to whip up. You can have them on the table in no time, making them an ideal choice for those hectic evenings when you want something satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to make: You can have these tasty subs ready in just 30 minutes, perfect for busy nights!
• Family-friendly: Everyone loves meatballs and cheesy goodness, making this dish a hit with kids and adults alike.
• Make-ahead convenience: Prepare the meatballs in advance and store them in the fridge or freezer for a speedy meal later.
• Flavor explosion: The combination of bourbon BBQ sauce, turkey bacon, and melty cheese creates an irresistible taste that you’ll crave again and again.
• Flexible options: Customize these subs with your favorite toppings or sides to suit your family’s preferences.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients to create these delightful meatball subs. You likely have most of these items on hand already!

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 Assembly

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 cup bourbon BBQ sauce
• 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 while keeping it delicious:

• Swap the protein: Use ground turkey or chicken if you prefer a lighter option. They work wonderfully in this recipe!
• Try different cheeses: Experiment with mozzarella or pepper jack for a unique twist on flavor.
• Add veggies: Toss in some finely chopped bell peppers or onions into the meatball mixture for added texture and taste.
• Go gluten-free: Substitute traditional breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs for a fitting alternative.

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 toast perfectly while you prepare everything else.

Step 2: Mix the Meatball Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined—over-mixing can lead to tough meatballs!

Step 3: Shape the Meatballs

Form the mixture into meatballs about 1.5 inches in diameter. Aim for around 16-20 meatballs so that everyone gets enough goodness inside their sub.

Step 4: Brown the Meatballs

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the meatballs in a single layer. Browning them for about 5-7 minutes adds flavor and helps seal in juices.

Step 5: Simmer with BBQ Sauce

Once browned, return all meatballs to the skillet. Pour in the bourbon BBQ sauce and reduce heat to low. Let them simmer for about 10 minutes to absorb those delicious flavors.

Step 6: Toast Your Sub Rolls

While your meatballs are simmering away, slice your sub rolls lengthwise without cutting all the way through. Place them on a baking sheet and toast them in your preheated oven for 5 minutes until golden brown—this adds great texture!

Step 7: Assemble Your Subs

Place 4-5 meatballs inside each toasted roll, spooning extra sauce over them for that rich flavor.

Step 8: Add Cheese and Bacon

Top each sub with ¼ cup of shredded cheddar cheese and two slices of crispy turkey bacon (broken into pieces if desired). The more cheese, the better!

Step 9: Melt It All Together

If you love melty cheese (who doesn’t?), pop your assembled subs back into the oven for another 2-3 minutes until everything is beautifully melted.

Step 10: Serve and Enjoy!

Serve immediately with additional bourbon BBQ sauce on the side for dipping. Get ready for happy faces around your table!

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

These delicious meatball subs are easier than you might think! With a few simple tips, you can ensure they turn out perfectly every time.

• Use lean ground beef: Choosing an 80/20 lean-to-fat ratio helps keep the meatballs juicy without being overly greasy, ensuring a delightful bite every time.

• Don’t overmix the meat: Mixing just until combined keeps your meatballs tender, preventing them from becoming tough, which is key to achieving that perfect texture.

• Simmer with sauce: Allowing the browned meatballs to simmer in bourbon BBQ sauce not only enhances their flavor but also keeps them moist as they cook through.

• Toast the rolls: A quick toast in the oven adds a delightful crunch and prevents the rolls from getting soggy once filled with those juicy meatballs and sauce.

• Experiment with cheese: While cheddar is fantastic, trying different cheeses like pepper jack or gouda can give your subs an exciting twist!

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

Serving these Bourbon BBQ Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs can be just as fun as making them! Here are some ideas to present your dish beautifully and enjoyably.

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness that brightens up the rich flavors of the subs.
• Pickled jalapeños: For those who love a spicy kick, adding pickled jalapeños on top will elevate the flavor profile and provide a zesty contrast.

Side Dishes

• Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy sweet potato fries make for a great side. Their natural sweetness pairs perfectly with the smoky BBQ flavors of the subs.

• Coleslaw: A refreshing coleslaw provides crunch and acidity that balances the richness of the meatballs and turkey bacon, making for an enjoyable meal.

• Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn on the cob brushed with a little butter adds a classic touch to your picnic-style meal, enhancing your comfort food experience.

• Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette offers a bright contrast to the hearty subs, refreshing your palate with each bite.

With these tips and serving ideas, you’ll create an unforgettable meal that’s sure to impress family and friends alike! Enjoy every delicious bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Bourbon BBQ Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs are perfect for meal prep! You can save time by making them in advance, ensuring a delicious and satisfying meal is always within reach.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover meatball subs in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• Enjoy them within 3-4 days for the best taste and quality.
• If you prefer, store the meatballs and sauce separately from the rolls to keep them fresh longer.

Freezing

• Allow the meatballs to cool completely before freezing.
• Place them in freezer-safe bags or containers, separating layers with parchment paper.
• Freeze for up to 2-3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, just thaw overnight in the fridge.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through.
• You can also microwave individual subs for about 1-2 minutes or until hot, but be cautious not to overheat the bread.

FAQs

If you have questions about this recipe, you’re in the right place!

Can I make Bourbon BBQ Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the meatballs and sauce a day in advance and assemble the subs just before serving. This makes for an easy weeknight dinner or a great party dish!

How long does it take to prepare Bourbon BBQ Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs Ready in 30 Minutes?

This recipe is designed to be quick! With only about 15 minutes of prep time and 25 minutes of cooking time, you’ll have delicious meatball subs ready in just 30 minutes.

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef for this recipe?

Yes! Ground turkey is a great alternative if you’re looking for a leaner option. Just follow the same steps, and you’ll still have flavorful meatball subs.

Final Thoughts

I hope you feel inspired to make these Bourbon BBQ Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs! They’re not only quick and easy but also packed with flavor that will bring comfort to your table. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a fun gathering with friends, these subs are sure to impress. Enjoy every bite, and don’t forget to share your experience!