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, you’ve come to the right place! These Bourbon BBQ Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs Ready in 30 Minutes are not only flavorful but also super easy to whip up. Imagine juicy meatballs simmered in a sweet and smoky BBQ sauce, nestled in warm toasted sub rolls, and topped with gooey cheddar cheese and crispy turkey bacon. It’s comfort food at its finest!

This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or casual family gatherings. Whether you’re hosting friends for game night or just need a satisfying dinner after a hectic day, these meatball subs will hit the spot every time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick cooking time: With just 30 minutes from start to finish, you’ll have dinner on the table in no time!
• Family-friendly flavors: The combination of BBQ sauce and turkey bacon appeals to both kids and adults alike.
• Easy cleanup: Fewer dishes mean more time to enjoy your meal and relax afterward.
• Customizable options: You can adapt this recipe to fit your family’s tastes with ease.
• Comfort food bliss: There’s something about cheesy meatball subs that makes everyone feel right at home.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll find that this recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients that you might already have in your pantry. Each component plays an essential role in creating those delicious flavors we all crave.

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

One of the best things about these meatball subs is how flexible they are! Feel free to mix things up based on what you have or what you love.

• Swap the protein: Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option.
• Add veggies: Mix in finely chopped bell peppers or onions into the meat mixture for added flavor and nutrition.
• Change the cheese: Try using pepper jack for a spicy kick or mozzarella for a classic touch.
• Make it spicy: Add some hot sauce or red pepper flakes to the BBQ sauce for an extra layer of heat.

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 will ensure your sub rolls get perfectly toasted while you prepare everything else!

Step 2: Mix the Meatballs

In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mixing gently until just combined is key here; overmixing can make your meatballs tough.

Step 3: Form Meatballs

Now it’s time to roll! Form the mixture into meatballs about 1.5 inches in diameter. You should get around 16-20 meatballs total. This size ensures they cook evenly and fit perfectly in 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. Browning them adds flavor and texture; don’t worry about cooking them through just yet!

Step 5: Simmer with Sauce

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

Step 6: Toast Your Sub Rolls

While those delicious meatballs are simmering away, slice your sub rolls lengthwise without cutting all the way through. Pop them on a baking sheet and toast them in your preheated oven until golden brown—about 5 minutes should do it!

Step 7: Assemble Your Subs

Place 4-5 meatballs inside each toasted roll, making sure to spoon some extra sauce over them for good measure.

Step 8: Add Cheese and Turkey Bacon

Top each sub with a generous amount of shredded cheddar cheese and break two slices of crispy turkey bacon on top. The more cheese, the better!

Step 9: Melt That Cheese!

If you’re feeling extra indulgent (and who isn’t?), pop your assembled subs back into the oven for an additional 2-3 minutes until that cheese is gloriously melted.

Step 10: Serve & Enjoy!

Serve these mouthwatering Bourbon BBQ Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs immediately with some extra bourbon BBQ sauce on the side for dipping! Enjoy every bite—you deserve it!

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

Creating mouth-watering meatball subs doesn’t have to be complicated—here are some tips to streamline your process and enhance the flavors!

• Prep Ahead: Prepare the meatball mixture and form the meatballs a day in advance. This saves time and allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs or spices can boost the flavor profile of your meatballs. Consider adding chopped parsley or fresh garlic for an extra kick!
• Adjust Sauce to Taste: If you prefer a spicier kick, add a dash of hot sauce or cayenne pepper to your BBQ sauce while simmering. This customization makes it your own!
• Experiment with Cheese: While cheddar cheese is delicious, try mixing in pepper jack or mozzarella for a different flavor experience. It adds variety and keeps things exciting!
• Broil for a Crunchy Finish: After melting the cheese, switch to broil for a minute or two to achieve a crispy top on your subs. Just keep an eye on them to avoid burning!

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

Serving these delicious subs can turn an ordinary meal into something special! Here are some ideas to elevate your dining experience.

Garnishes

• Chopped Green Onions: Sprinkling fresh green onions on top adds a pop of color and a mild onion flavor that complements the dish perfectly.
• Pickles: Adding pickles on the side or inside the subs provides a tangy crunch that balances out the richness of the meatballs and cheese.
• Fresh Cilantro: A few sprigs of cilantro can enhance the overall freshness of your meal, giving it that vibrant touch.

Side Dishes

• Sweet Potato Fries: These crispy delights are not only healthier than regular fries but also add a sweet complement to the savory meatball subs.
• Coleslaw: A creamy coleslaw provides a refreshing contrast with its crunchy texture and tangy taste, making it an ideal sidekick for these hearty sandwiches.
• Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn brushed with olive oil and grilled until charred adds a smoky sweetness that pairs wonderfully with BBQ flavors.
• Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a simple vinaigrette can provide balance and freshness alongside your rich meatball subs.

Enjoy crafting this quick yet delightful meal, perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings. Your loved ones will surely appreciate every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Bourbon BBQ Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can make these delicious meatballs ahead of time to enjoy quick, hearty dinners throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Place any leftover meatball subs in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Separate the meatballs from the bread if you want to maintain the bread’s texture.

Freezing

• Allow the meatballs to cool completely before freezing.
• Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• For frozen meatballs, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Heat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of additional BBQ sauce until warmed through.
• Alternatively, microwave on low power until heated thoroughly, about 2-3 minutes.

FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions about this delicious recipe:

Can I make Bourbon BBQ Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs Ready in 30 Minutes with ground turkey?

Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great alternative for making lighter meatballs. Just ensure it’s well-seasoned for optimal flavor.

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

You can pair these subs with a side salad, sweet potato fries, or even coleslaw for a complete meal that’s sure to please everyone!

Can I use another type of cheese besides cheddar?

Definitely! Feel free to experiment with your favorite cheeses like Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or even mozzarella for different flavor profiles.

How can I adjust the spiciness of the bourbon BBQ sauce?

To customize the heat level, you can add chili powder or hot sauce during cooking. Alternatively, look for mild BBQ sauces if you prefer less spice.

Final Thoughts

These Bourbon BBQ Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs are not just a meal; they’re an experience filled with flavors that bring comfort and joy. Whether you’re serving them up at a family dinner or enjoying them solo after a long day, I hope you find as much delight in making this recipe as I do. Happy cooking, and enjoy every delicious bite!