Bourbon BBQ Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs Ready in 30 Minutes

If you’re looking for a quick and delightful 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 just a recipe; they are a delicious hug in a bun. Imagine juicy meatballs simmered in a sweet-smoky sauce, nestled within warm, toasted sub rolls, all topped with melted cheddar cheese and crispy turkey bacon. It’s comfort food at its finest!

Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a cozy weekend gathering with friends, these subs are perfect for any occasion. They come together in no time and are sure to bring smiles to everyone at the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to prepare: With just 30 minutes from start to finish, you can enjoy delicious subs without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Family-friendly flavor: The combination of BBQ sauce and melty cheese makes this dish a hit with kids and adults alike.
• Make-ahead convenience: You can prep the meatballs in advance and simply heat them up on the day you plan to serve!
• Flexible variations: This recipe is easy to modify to suit your taste preferences—get creative!
• Comforting goodness: Each bite is packed with flavor, making it a satisfying meal that warms your heart.

Ingredients You’ll Need

In this recipe, we’re using simple and wholesome ingredients that you likely already have on hand. They come together beautifully to create those mouthwatering flavors we all crave! Here’s what you’ll need:

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 Serving

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

Variations

One of the best things about these meatball subs is their flexibility! You can easily customize them based on what you have or what you’re craving. Here are some fun ideas:

• Swap the protein: Try using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option!
• Change up the cheese: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like pepper jack for some heat or mozzarella for a milder flavor.
• Add veggies: Sneak in some finely chopped spinach or bell peppers into the meatball mixture for extra nutrition.
• Use different sauces: If barbecue isn’t your thing, try using teriyaki sauce or even marinara for an Italian twist!

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: Prepare the Meatball Mixture

In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined. It’s important not to over-mix; this keeps your meatballs tender!

Step 3: Form the Meatballs

Shape the mixture into meatballs about 1.5 inches in diameter—aim for 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 your meatballs in a single layer. Brown them on all sides for about 5-7 minutes total. This step adds wonderful flavor through caramelization.

Step 5: Simmer with BBQ Sauce

After browning, return all meatballs to the skillet and pour over the bourbon BBQ sauce. Reduce heat to low and let everything simmer for about 10 minutes—this allows those flavors to meld beautifully.

Step 6: Toast Your Sub Rolls

While your meatballs are simmering away, slice each sub roll lengthwise without cutting all the way through. Place them on a baking sheet and toast them in your preheated oven for about 5 minutes until golden brown—this gives them that delightful crunch.

Step 7: Assemble Your Subs

Now comes the fun part! Place 4-5 meatballs inside each toasted roll and spoon on some extra sauce if desired.

Step 8: Add Cheese and Turkey Bacon

Top each sub with about ¼ cup of shredded cheddar cheese and break two slices of crispy turkey bacon on top.

Step 9: Melt That Cheese!

For extra melty goodness, pop your assembled subs back into the oven for another 2-3 minutes until that cheese is fully melted—trust me; it’s worth it!

Step 10: Serve with Extra Sauce

Serve immediately while hot! Don’t forget to offer more bourbon BBQ sauce on the side for dipping—everyone will want it!

Enjoy these Bourbon BBQ Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs as they make every meal feel like a special occasion!

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

These meatball subs are sure to impress, and with a few tips, you’ll be able to whip them up effortlessly!

• Prep Ingredients Ahead: Chop your garlic and onion, and measure out spices before starting. This makes it easier to stay organized and speeds up the cooking process.

• Use Lean Ground Beef: Choosing an 80/20 lean-to-fat ratio ensures juicy meatballs without being overly greasy. The right fat content yields flavorful meatballs that won’t dry out during cooking.

• Don’t Overmix the Meat: Gently combine the meat mixture when forming the meatballs. Overmixing can lead to tough meatballs; you want them tender and juicy!

• Simmer for Flavor: Allowing the meatballs to simmer in the bourbon BBQ sauce not only cooks them through but also infuses them with rich flavor. Don’t skip this step!

• Toast Rolls for Texture: Toasting your sub rolls adds a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the soft meatballs and melted cheese. It elevates the entire eating experience!

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

Presenting these subs can be just as fun as making them! Here are some ideas to make your meal even more inviting.

Garnishes

• Fresh parsley or cilantro: A sprinkle of fresh herbs adds a pop of color and freshness, enhancing both presentation and flavor.
• Pickled jalapeños: For those who enjoy a spicy kick, pickled jalapeños add both heat and tanginess that complements the sweetness of the BBQ sauce.

Side Dishes

• Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside, sweet potato fries provide a satisfying contrast to the savory subs.
• Coleslaw: A refreshing coleslaw made with cabbage and carrots tossed in a light dressing adds crunch and balances the richness of the subs.
• Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn on the cob brings a touch of summer to your meal, perfect for soaking up any extra BBQ sauce.
• Garden Salad: A simple garden salad with mixed greens, tomatoes, and cucumbers offers a light, crisp side that rounds out your meal beautifully.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, your Bourbon BBQ Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs will not only taste fantastic but also look like they belong in a magazine! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Bourbon BBQ Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy deliciousness throughout the week! With simple storage methods, you can make your busy days easier while savoring this fantastic dish.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover meatball subs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• If possible, separate the meatballs and sauce from the sub rolls to maintain the roll’s texture.

Freezing

• To freeze, wrap each assembled sub tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• These subs can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just label with the date!

Reheating

• For best results, reheat meatballs and sauce in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through.
• If reheating assembled subs, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated all the way.

FAQs

Here are some answers to common questions about making Bourbon BBQ Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs!

Can I make Bourbon BBQ Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs Ready in 30 Minutes ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare and form the meatballs in advance and store them in the refrigerator. Simply cook and assemble when you’re ready to serve.

What can I use instead of ground beef for Bourbon BBQ Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs Ready in 30 Minutes?

You can substitute ground turkey or lean ground chicken for a lighter option that still packs delicious flavor. Adjust cooking times accordingly based on the meat used.

How do I ensure my meatballs stay juicy?

For juicy meatballs, avoid overmixing when combining ingredients. The breadcrumbs and egg help retain moisture, so be gentle during mixing!

Can I use different types of cheese for my subs?

Definitely! Feel free to experiment with your favorite cheeses like pepper jack for some heat or mozzarella for a milder taste.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoyed this journey into creating Bourbon BBQ Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs! This recipe is special because it brings together comforting flavors and easy preparation, perfect for any night of the week. I encourage you to gather your ingredients and give it a try—you won’t regret it! Happy cooking!

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