Bourbon BBQ Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs Ready in 30 Minutes

If you’re looking for a quick and satisfying dinner that brings everyone together, these Bourbon BBQ Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs Ready in 30 Minutes are just the thing! Picture this: juicy meatballs, simmered in a sweet and smoky BBQ sauce, nestled in crispy sub rolls and topped with melty cheddar cheese and crunchy turkey bacon. It’s comfort food at its finest!

This recipe is not just easy to make; it’s also incredibly versatile. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering, having a casual get-together with friends, or just looking for a delicious meal on a busy weeknight, these meatball subs will be an absolute hit!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to prepare: With only 30 minutes needed, you can have dinner on the table in no time!
• Family-friendly: These subs are sure to please both kids and adults alike. Who can resist meatballs in a bun?
• Flavor-packed: The combination of bourbon BBQ sauce, turkey bacon, and cheddar cheese creates an explosion of flavor.
• Customizable: You can easily adjust ingredients to suit your family’s tastes or dietary needs.
• Make-ahead option: Prepare the meatballs in advance for even quicker assembly during busy nights.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll find that these ingredients are simple and wholesome, making it easy to create this delicious meal. Gather up the following:

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

For the Sauce and Assembly

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

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to mix and match to suit your taste or dietary preferences.

• Swap the protein: Use ground chicken or turkey instead of beef for a lighter option that still packs flavor.
• Change up the cheese: Try Monterey Jack or pepper jack cheese for an extra kick!
• Add veggies: Toss in some chopped bell peppers or onions into the meatball mixture for added nutrition and flavor.
• Go gluten-free: Substitute breadcrumbs with gluten-free options or oats for those needing a gluten-free meal.

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 when you’re ready to toast those delicious sub rolls, they’ll get perfectly golden brown.

Step 2: Prepare the Meatball Mixture

In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until everything is just combined. Be careful not to overmix; we want tender meatballs!

Step 3: Form the Meatballs

Now it’s time to shape your meatballs! Roll the mixture into balls about 1.5 inches in diameter—this should yield 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 total. They don’t need to be fully cooked through just yet; we’ll finish cooking them in the sauce.

Step 5: Simmer in BBQ Sauce

Once browned, return all the meatballs to the skillet. Pour the bourbon BBQ sauce over them and reduce heat to low. Let them simmer gently for about 10 minutes while occasionally stirring. This step allows those flavors to meld beautifully!

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 pop them into your preheated oven for about 5 minutes until they’re nice and golden brown.

Step 7: Assemble Your Subs

Once your meatballs are ready, it’s time to assemble! Place 4-5 meatballs inside each toasted roll. Don’t forget to spoon extra sauce over them for that extra flavor burst!

Step 8: Add Cheese and Turkey Bacon

Top each sub with about ¼ cup shredded cheddar cheese and break up two slices of crispy turkey bacon on top. If you love gooey cheese like I do, feel free to add more!

Step 9: Melt That Cheese

For an extra-melty experience, return your assembled subs back into the oven for another 2-3 minutes until everything is gooey and delicious.

Step 10: Serve with Extra Sauce

Serve immediately with some additional bourbon BBQ sauce on the side for dipping! Your friends and family will love digging into these flavorful subs.

Enjoy making these Bourbon BBQ Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs Ready in 30 Minutes as much as I do! They are bound to become a favorite at your dinner table too!

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

These flavorful meatball subs are a breeze to whip up, especially with a few handy tips!

• Prep Your Ingredients Ahead: Having everything ready to go will save you time and streamline the cooking process. Measure out your spices, chop your ingredients, and have your sauces on hand before you start cooking.

• Don’t Overmix the Meatball Mixture: Mixing just until combined helps keep your meatballs tender. Overmixing can lead to tough meatballs, so be gentle when combining the ingredients.

• Use a Meat Thermometer: To ensure your meatballs are cooked perfectly without being dry, use a meat thermometer. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) when finished cooking.

• Experiment with Different Cheeses: While cheddar is delicious, trying other cheeses like Monterey Jack or pepper jack can add a unique twist to your subs. Each cheese brings its own flavor profile that can elevate the dish!

• Customize Your BBQ Sauce: If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding some extra spices or a hint of sweetness to your barbecue sauce. This customization can enhance the overall flavor and make it uniquely yours.

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

Presenting these mouthwatering meatball subs is as fun as eating them! Here are some ideas on how to serve them up for maximum enjoyment.

Garnishes

• Chopped Fresh Parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness that brightens up the dish.
• Sliced Jalapeños: For those who enjoy a kick, sliced jalapeños provide heat and crunch that complement the rich flavors of the BBQ sauce.
• Pickles: Adding dill pickles on top or on the side gives a tangy contrast that balances out the sweetness of the sauce.

Side Dishes

• Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy sweet potato fries are not only delicious but also add a slightly sweet element that pairs wonderfully with BBQ flavors.
• Coleslaw: A refreshing coleslaw brings crunch and acidity to balance out the richness of the meatballs and cheese, making it a perfect companion.
• Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn on the cob adds sweetness and brightness—plus it’s always a crowd-pleaser during get-togethers!
• Mixed Green Salad: A simple mixed green salad dressed with vinaigrette offers freshness and lightness that contrasts nicely with hearty subs.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, you’re all set to impress family and friends with your Bourbon BBQ Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Bourbon BBQ Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make a big batch and enjoy these tasty subs throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the meatballs to cool completely before storing.
• Place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• Enjoy leftovers within 3-4 days for the best flavor and quality.

Freezing

• Let the meatballs cool before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through.
• You can also microwave them in short intervals, stirring in between, until hot.
• If using frozen meatballs, ensure they’re fully thawed before reheating.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious 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. Just store them separately in the fridge and assemble your subs when you’re ready to eat.

What can I substitute for bourbon BBQ sauce in Bourbon BBQ Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs Ready in 30 Minutes?

You can use a mix of your favorite barbecue sauce with a splash of apple cider vinegar or Worcestershire sauce for added depth. This will give you that sweet-smoky flavor without using bourbon.

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes! Ground turkey works beautifully in this recipe and keeps it leaner. Just ensure you season well since turkey has a milder flavor.

How do I customize my Bourbon BBQ Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs?

Feel free to add toppings like sliced jalapeños, pickles, or even coleslaw for crunch. The options are endless!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these Bourbon BBQ Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs! They’re not just satisfying but also bring a bit of comfort into your home. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a weekend gathering, this recipe is sure to impress. Enjoy every bite, and don’t hesitate to share your variations or thoughts with me—I’d love to hear how they turn out!