Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs Ready in 30 Minutes

These flavorful Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs Ready in 30 Minutes are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a game day gathering, enjoying a casual weeknight dinner, or seeking a fun meal to impress friends, these subs deliver bold flavors that everyone will love. The combination of juicy meatballs, smoky bourbon BBQ sauce, crispy bacon, and melty cheddar cheese makes this dish a standout choice in your recipe repertoire.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 30 minutes of cooking time, you can whip up these delicious subs in no time.
• Flavor Explosion: The sweet-smoky bourbon BBQ sauce, paired with crispy bacon, creates an irresistible flavor profile.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve these subs at parties, family dinners, or even as a casual snack—perfect for any occasion!
• Comfort Food Classic: This recipe brings the beloved flavors of cheeseburgers into a fun and convenient sub form.

Tools and Preparation

To make your Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs successfully, you’ll need some essential tools and equipment to streamline the process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• Skillet
• Baking sheet
• Cooking spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large mixing bowl: Essential for combining ingredients without making a mess.
• Skillet: A good skillet ensures even cooking and browning of the meatballs.
• Baking sheet: Perfect for toasting the sub rolls evenly in the oven.

Ingredients

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 Assembly

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 cup bourbon BBQ sauce
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 4 sub rolls
• 8 slices crispy bacon

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

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for toasting the sub rolls later on.

Step 2: Mix the Meatball Ingredients

In a large bowl:
1. Combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Mix gently until just combined; avoid overmixing to keep meatballs tender.

Step 3: Shape the Meatballs

Form the mixture into meatballs about 1.5 inches in diameter. You should end up with approximately 16-20 meatballs.

Step 4: Brown the Meatballs

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat:
– 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 at this stage.

Step 5: Simmer with Bourbon BBQ Sauce

Once browned:
– Return all meatballs to the skillet.
– Pour bourbon BBQ sauce over them.
– Reduce heat to low and let simmer for 10 minutes, stirring gently from time to time.

Step 6: Toast the Sub Rolls

While meatballs are simmering:
– Slice your sub rolls lengthwise without cutting all the way through.
– Place on a baking sheet and toast in preheated oven for about 5 minutes until golden brown.

Step 7: Assemble the Subs

For each toasted roll:
– Place 4-5 meatballs inside.
– Spoon extra bourbon BBQ sauce over them.
– Top with ¼ cup shredded cheddar cheese and broken crispy bacon slices if desired.

Step 8: Melt the Cheese (Optional)

For extra-melty cheese:
– Return assembled subs to oven for an additional 2-3 minutes until cheese is fully melted.

Step 9: Serve Your Delicious Subs

Serve immediately with additional bourbon BBQ sauce on the side for dipping. Enjoy your Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs!

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

Serving Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs is all about balancing flavors and textures. These delicious subs can be enjoyed on their own, but pairing them with the right accompaniments elevates the meal even more.

Pair with Refreshing Salads

• Coleslaw – A classic choice that adds crunch and a hint of sweetness to balance the savory meatballs.
• Caesar Salad – Crisp romaine lettuce with creamy dressing enhances the richness of the subs.
• Potato Salad – This creamy side complements the smoky flavors of the meatballs perfectly.

Add Some Crunchy Snacks

• Chips – Tortilla or potato chips provide a satisfying crunch; try dipping them in extra bourbon BBQ sauce!
• Pickles – Tangy pickles add a zesty contrast that cuts through the richness of the subs.

Enhance with Dipping Sauces

• Extra Bourbon BBQ Sauce – Serve it on the side for those who want more of that sweet-smoky flavor.
• Spicy Ketchup – A little heat can enhance your experience; mix ketchup with hot sauce for an extra kick.

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

To ensure your Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs turn out perfectly, follow these tips for best results.

• Use Fresh Ingredients – Always opt for fresh ground beef and high-quality bacon for maximum flavor.
• Adjust Seasonings – Feel free to tweak spices according to your taste preference; add cayenne for heat or more smoked paprika for depth.
• Don’t Overmix – When combining ingredients, mix just until combined to keep meatballs tender and juicy.
• Toast Your Rolls – Toasting adds a delightful crunch and helps prevent sogginess from the sauce.

Best Side Dishes for Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs Ready in 30 Minutes

Pairing side dishes with your Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs enhances your meal. Here are some tasty suggestions:

1. Sweet Potato Fries – Baked or fried, they offer a sweet contrast that pairs well with savory subs.
2. Corn on the Cob – Grilled corn brushed with butter adds a summer vibe to your dinner.
3. Baked Beans – Smoky baked beans bring an additional layer of flavor, perfect alongside barbecue dishes.
4. Macaroni and Cheese – Creamy mac adds comfort and pairs delightfully with meaty flavors.
5. Grilled Vegetables – A colorful assortment of grilled veggies adds freshness and balances richness.
6. Onion Rings – Crispy onion rings provide a fun texture contrast and enhance the burger experience.
7. Garden Salad – A light salad helps cleanse the palate between bites of rich meatballs.
8. French Fries – Classic fries are always a hit and can be seasoned to match your meal’s flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Many home cooks make simple mistakes that can affect the flavor and texture of their Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs. Here are some pitfalls to avoid.

• Using lean ground beef: Opt for 80/20 ground beef for juicier meatballs. Leaner meat can lead to dry results.
• Overmixing the meatball mixture: Mix ingredients just until combined for tender meatballs. Overmixing can make them tough.
• Skipping the browning step: Browning adds flavor. Don’t skip this crucial step; it enhances the overall taste.
• Not using enough seasoning: Be generous with spices like garlic powder and smoked paprika. They are key to delicious meatballs.
• Forgetting to toast the rolls: Toasting adds a delightful crunch. Always toast your sub rolls for a better texture.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs in an airtight container.
• They will last in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs Ready in 30 Minutes

• Wrap each sub individually in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs Ready in 30 Minutes

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake wrapped subs for about 15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking regularly to prevent overcooking.
• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water to create steam while covering.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about making Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs, we’ve got answers!

How can I customize my Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs?

Feel free to add toppings like jalapeños, pickles, or even coleslaw. The recipe is versatile and can be tailored to your taste.

Can I use turkey instead of beef in my meatball subs?

Yes! Ground turkey works well as a leaner alternative. Just ensure it is seasoned adequately.

What sides pair well with Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs Ready in 30 Minutes?

Serve with crispy fries, potato salad, or a fresh green salad for a complete meal that everyone will love.

How do I prevent my meatballs from falling apart?

Be sure not to overmix the ingredients and allow them to rest before cooking. This helps them hold together better during cooking.

Final Thoughts

These Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs are not only quick and easy but also bursting with flavor. Perfect for game day or a cozy dinner, you can customize them with your favorite toppings or sauces. Try this recipe today and enjoy a comforting meal that satisfies cravings!