Bourbon BBQ Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs Ready in 30 Minutes

If you’re looking for a fun and flavorful 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 a delicious twist on classic burgers, packed into easy-to-eat subs. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a casual get-together with friends, these savory meatball sandwiches bring comfort food to the next level.

What makes this recipe truly special is its perfect balance of juicy meatballs simmered in sweet-smoky BBQ sauce, all topped with melty cheese and crispy turkey bacon. It’s hard to resist the allure of these subs, and they’re so quick to prepare that you’ll find yourself reaching for this recipe again and again!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: Ready in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for those hectic nights.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will devour these tasty meatball subs.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of bourbon BBQ sauce and turkey bacon creates an irresistible taste.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prep the meatballs ahead of time for an even quicker dinner!
• Customizable: Easily adjust ingredients to suit your family’s tastes or dietary preferences.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These are simple, wholesome ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry. Each one plays a key role in creating those delicious 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

• 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

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to mix things up based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.

• Swap the protein: Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option.
• Switch up the cheese: Try pepper jack or mozzarella for a different flavor profile.
• Add some greens: Toss in some fresh spinach or arugula for added crunch and nutrition.
• Spice it up: Add diced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes to the meat mixture for an extra kick!

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 be perfectly toasted by the time you’re ready to assemble everything!

Step 2: Prepare the Meatball Mixture

In a large bowl, combine your 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; this keeps your meatballs tender and juicy!

Step 3: Shape the Meatballs

Form the mixture into meatballs about 1.5 inches in diameter. Aim for around 16-20 meatballs total. This size allows them to cook evenly while fitting nicely into your sub rolls.

Step 4: Brown the Meatballs

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add your meatballs in a single layer—do this in batches if necessary! Browning them adds flavor and texture. Cook them until they’re golden brown on all sides (about 5-7 minutes).

Step 5: Simmer with BBQ Sauce

Once browned, return all meatballs to the skillet and pour over the bourbon BBQ sauce. Reduce heat to low and let them simmer for about 10 minutes. Stir occasionally so each meatball gets coated with that sweet-smoky goodness!

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 about 5 minutes until golden brown—this adds a delightful crunch!

Step 7: Assemble Your Subs

Now comes the fun part! Place 4-5 meatballs inside each toasted roll, spooning some extra sauce over them. Top each sub with about ¼ cup shredded cheddar cheese and two slices of crispy turkey bacon.

Step 8: Melt That Cheese

For extra-melty deliciousness, return the assembled subs back to the oven for another 2-3 minutes until the cheese is fully melted. Your kitchen will smell amazing!

Step 9: Serve & Enjoy!

Serve these mouthwatering subs immediately with additional bourbon BBQ sauce on the side for dipping. Enjoy every bite—you’ve earned it!

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

Creating these flavorful meatball subs is a breeze with a few handy tips to help you along the way!

• Prep Ahead: If you’re short on time, consider prepping the meatballs and sauce ahead of time. You can store them in the fridge for up to a day, making the cooking process even quicker when you’re ready to eat.

• Use Lean Ground Turkey: For a healthier option, swap out ground beef for lean ground turkey. It still provides great flavor while reducing calories and fat content, and it pairs perfectly with BBQ sauce.

• Don’t Overmix: When combining your ingredients for the meatballs, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tough meatballs. You want them tender and juicy!

• Experiment with Cheese: While cheddar cheese is delicious, feel free to experiment with other types like pepper jack for a little kick or mozzarella for that perfect stretch. Variety keeps things exciting!

• Make it Customizable: Set up a toppings bar with additional condiments like pickles, onions, or jalapeños. This allows everyone to customize their subs just how they like it—fun for gatherings!

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

These Bourbon BBQ Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs are not only delicious but also visually appealing when served right. Here are some ideas to make your presentation shine!

Garnishes

• Chopped Fresh Parsley: A sprinkle of bright green parsley adds color and freshness to your meatball subs.
• Sliced Green Onions: These lend a mild onion flavor and a pop of color, enhancing both taste and presentation.
• Pickled Jalapeños: For those who love some heat, adding pickled jalapeños brings an extra zing that complements the sweetness of the BBQ sauce.

Side Dishes

• Coleslaw: A crisp coleslaw pairs beautifully with the warm, savory flavors of the meatball subs. Its refreshing crunch balances out the richness of the meal.
• Sweet Potato Fries: The natural sweetness and crispy texture of sweet potato fries make them a delightful side that complements the BBQ flavor.
• Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn on the cob is a classic summer side that adds a sweet touch to your meal, especially when slathered in butter.
• Baked Beans: Rich and hearty baked beans provide a comforting side that works harmoniously with BBQ flavors, making your meal feel complete.

With these tips and serving suggestions, 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

These Bourbon BBQ Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs are a fantastic option for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy comforting flavors throughout the week without the hassle of daily cooking.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the meatball subs to cool completely before storing.
• Place them in an airtight container or wrap them tightly in plastic wrap.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• After cooling, individually wrap each sub in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place wrapped subs into a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months for optimal freshness.

Reheating

• To reheat from refrigerated, place the sub in a microwave-safe dish and cover with a damp paper towel. Microwave on medium power until warmed through (about 1-2 minutes).
• For frozen subs, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then reheat as above, or bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until hot and melty.

FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions about making these delicious Bourbon BBQ Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs:

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

Yes! You can prepare the meatballs and sauce ahead of time. Store them separately in the fridge, and assemble your subs when you’re ready to serve.

What can I use instead of turkey bacon in this recipe?

If you prefer not to use turkey bacon, consider using plant-based bacon alternatives or omitting it altogether for a lighter version. The meatballs will still shine!

How do I ensure my Bourbon BBQ Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs are juicy?

Using ground beef with an 80/20 lean-to-fat ratio keeps your meatballs moist. Don’t overmix when combining ingredients; this helps maintain tenderness.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in creating these Bourbon BBQ Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs! They offer a delightful twist on classic comfort food that’s perfect for sharing with family and friends. Enjoy every bite and don’t hesitate to get creative with toppings or sides. Happy cooking!