Bourbon BBQ Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs Ready in 30 Minutes

If you’re looking for a dish that brings everyone to the table with smiles, then these Bourbon BBQ Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs Ready in 30 Minutes are just what you need! This recipe is a delightful twist on classic flavors, transforming them into juicy meatballs smothered in rich BBQ sauce, all stuffed into warm sub rolls. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when time is tight, but you still want to serve your family something delicious. Plus, they make an awesome finger food for gatherings or game days!

What makes this recipe truly special is its ability to satisfy cravings without much fuss. You can whip it up in no time, and trust me, everyone will be asking for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, perfect for those busy nights!
• Family-friendly: Kids love the fun of meatball subs, and adults will appreciate the bold flavors.
• Make-ahead convenience: Prepare the meatballs in advance and store them for a quick meal later.
• Flavor-packed goodness: The combination of BBQ sauce and turkey bacon adds a smoky sweetness that’s hard to resist.
• Customizable options: Easily swap ingredients based on your preferences or what you have on hand.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are simple and wholesome, making this recipe as approachable as it is tasty. Gather these items from your kitchen or local grocery store to create your mouthwatering Bourbon BBQ Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs.

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 Serving

• 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 flexible, allowing you to make it your own! Here are some fun variations to try:

• 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 with the meat mixture for extra flavor and nutrition.
• Change the cheese: Try pepper jack cheese for a spicy kick!
• Go gluten-free: Substitute regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free ones or use crushed gluten-free crackers.

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 the meatballs are cooking.

Step 2: Prepare the Meatball Mixture

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

Step 3: Form the Meatballs

Shape the mixture into meatballs about 1.5 inches in diameter—aim for approximately 16-20 meatballs. The size helps them cook evenly and fit nicely into the 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 (you may need to do this in batches). Browning them on all sides creates a wonderful crust that locks in juiciness.

Step 5: Simmer with BBQ Sauce

After browning all the meatballs (about 5-7 minutes total), return them all to the skillet. Pour in the bourbon BBQ sauce and reduce heat to low. Let them simmer gently for about 10 minutes while stirring occasionally. This step infuses flavor into each bite!

Step 6: Toast Your Sub Rolls

While the meatballs are simmering away, slice your sub rolls 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—this adds a lovely crunch!

Step 7: Assemble Your Subs

Once toasted, place 4-5 meatballs inside each roll and spoon over some extra BBQ sauce if desired. Top each sub with about ¼ cup of shredded cheddar cheese and two slices of crispy Turkey Bacon—feel free to break them into smaller pieces if you like.

Step 8: Melt That Cheese!

For an extra melty finish, return your assembled subs to the oven for another 2-3 minutes until cheese is fully melted. The gooeyness will make these subs even more irresistible!

Step 9: Serve and Enjoy!

Serve immediately with additional bourbon BBQ sauce on the side for dipping. Watch as friends and family devour these flavorful subs—they’re sure to become a new favorite!

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

These mouthwatering meatball subs can be made even better with a few simple tips!

• Use Lean Ground Beef: Opting for an 80/20 lean-to-fat ratio will ensure your meatballs are juicy without being overly greasy, keeping the flavor balanced.

• Don’t Overmix the Meatball Mixture: Mixing just until combined helps keep the meatballs tender. Overmixing can lead to dense and tough meatballs.

• Toast the Rolls: Toasting the sub rolls not only adds an appealing crunch but also prevents them from becoming soggy when loaded with sauce.

• Experiment with BBQ Sauces: While bourbon BBQ sauce is delicious, feel free to try different flavors like honey chipotle or teriyaki to put your own spin on the dish.

• Make Extra Meatballs for Meal Prep: These meatballs freeze well! Prepare a double batch and freeze half for easy weeknight dinners later on.

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

Presenting these delightful meatball subs can make your meal feel extra special. Here are some fun ideas on how to serve them:

Garnishes

• Fresh Chopped Parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness that complements the rich flavors.

• Pickled Jalapeños: For those who enjoy a little kick, serve pickled jalapeños on the side. They add tanginess and spice, enhancing every bite.

Side Dishes

• Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy sweet potato fries offer a slightly sweet contrast to the savory subs. Plus, they’re a healthier alternative to regular fries!

• Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw adds freshness and texture. The creamy dressing balances out the richness of the meatballs, making for a satisfying meal.

• Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn on the cob is a classic summer side that pairs beautifully with BBQ flavors. Brush it with a little butter and sprinkle with salt for extra yum!

• Garden Salad: A light garden salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and cucumbers offers a refreshing counterpart to the hearty subs, making your meal feel more complete.

Enjoy crafting these tasty Bourbon BBQ Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs – they’re perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining friends!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Bourbon BBQ Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs are perfect for meal prep! You can easily whip up a batch ahead of time and enjoy them throughout the week. Here’s how to store, freeze, and reheat your subs for maximum flavor and convenience.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow leftover meatball subs to cool completely before storing.
• Place the meatballs in an airtight container with any remaining BBQ sauce.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Keep the sub rolls separate to maintain their texture.

Freezing

• For freezing, let the meatballs cool completely.
• Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container with barbecue sauce, ensuring to remove as much air as possible.
• Freeze for up to 3 months.
• Wrap sub rolls tightly in foil or plastic wrap before freezing to prevent freezer burn.

Reheating

• Thaw meatballs in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• To reheat, place meatballs and sauce in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through (about 5-7 minutes).
• Alternatively, microwave meatballs for about 1-2 minutes or until hot.
• Toast sub rolls in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for a few minutes before assembling.

FAQs

Have questions about making these delicious subs? Here are some common inquiries!

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. Just store them separately until you’re ready to assemble and serve.

What can I substitute for ground beef in this recipe?

You can use ground turkey or chicken as a lighter alternative. Just ensure that you adjust seasoning if needed since ground turkey may have a milder flavor.

How can I customize my Bourbon BBQ Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs Ready in 30 Minutes?

Feel free to add different toppings like pickles, jalapeños, or avocado for extra flavor. You can also switch out the cheese for your favorite variety!

What type of BBQ sauce works best?

A sweet-smoky bourbon BBQ sauce complements the flavors beautifully. If you prefer less sweetness, opt for a tangy vinegar-based BBQ sauce instead.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these Bourbon BBQ Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs! They are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile and fun to prepare. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends, these subs are sure to impress. Enjoy every bite and don’t forget to share your creations!