Bourbon BBQ Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs Ready in 30 Minutes

These Bourbon BBQ Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs Ready in 30 Minutes are a game-changer for busy weeknights or weekend get-togethers. Packed with flavor and easy to prepare, they bring the classic taste of cheeseburgers into a delicious sub form. Each bite is a perfect blend of juicy meatballs smothered in bourbon BBQ sauce, melty cheddar cheese, and crispy turkey bacon. Whether you’re serving them at a casual family dinner or a lively party, these meatball subs are sure to impress everyone.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 30 minutes from start to finish, you can enjoy these flavorful subs without spending all day in the kitchen.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of bourbon BBQ sauce, spices, and melted cheese makes every bite irresistible.
• Versatile Meal: Perfect for lunch, dinner, or even game day snacks, these meatball subs fit any occasion.
• Kid-Friendly: Kids will love the fun presentation and delicious taste, making it an easy choice for family meals.
• Customizable Ingredients: Feel free to swap out ingredients like cheese or add veggies to suit your taste.

Tools and Preparation

To make these Bourbon BBQ Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs Ready in 30 Minutes, you’ll need some essential tools that will make cooking easier and more efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large mixing bowl: Essential for combining all your ingredients without spilling.
• Skillet: Ideal for browning the meatballs evenly and simmering them in the sauce.
• Baking sheet: Perfect for toasting sub rolls to achieve that golden-brown finish.

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

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 cup bourbon BBQ sauce

For Assembly

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

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

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) so that it’s ready for toasting the sub rolls.

Step 2: Prepare the Meatball Mixture

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

Step 3: Form the Meatballs

Shape the mixture into meatballs about 1.5 inches in diameter. You should have approximately 16-20 meatballs.

Step 4: Brown the Meatballs

In a large skillet over medium heat:
1. Add olive oil and let it heat up.
2. Once hot, add the meatballs in a single layer (work in batches if necessary).
3. Brown them on all sides for about 5-7 minutes; they don’t need to cook through yet.

Step 5: Simmer in Sauce

After browning:
1. Return all meatballs to the skillet.
2. Pour bourbon BBQ sauce over them.
3. Reduce heat to low and simmer for about 10 minutes while stirring gently.

Step 6: Toast Sub Rolls

While your meatballs are simmering:
1. Slice each sub roll lengthwise without cutting all the way through.
2. Place them on a baking sheet and toast in your preheated oven for around 5 minutes until golden brown.

Step 7: Assemble Your Subs

Once everything is ready:
1. Place 4-5 meatballs inside each toasted roll.
2. Spoon additional barbecue sauce over each one as desired.

Step 8: Add Cheese and Turkey Bacon

Top each sub with:
1. A generous amount of shredded cheddar cheese (about ¼ cup each).
2. Two slices of crispy Turkey Bacon (break into pieces if you prefer).

Step 9: Melt Cheese (Optional)

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

Step 10: Serve

Serve immediately with extra bourbon BBQ sauce on the side for dipping! Enjoy your Bourbon BBQ Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs Ready in 30 Minutes!

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

Serving these Bourbon BBQ Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs can elevate any meal. They are perfect for casual gatherings, game days, or a cozy family dinner. Here are some creative ways to enhance your serving experience.

Creative Serving Suggestions

• With Extra Sauce: Serve additional bourbon BBQ sauce on the side for dipping to add more flavor.
• Garnished with Fresh Herbs: Top the subs with freshly chopped parsley or cilantro for a burst of freshness.
• Crunchy Coleslaw: Pair the subs with a side of crunchy coleslaw for a refreshing contrast to the savory meatballs.
• Pickle Slices: Offer dill pickle slices on the side for a tangy bite that complements the richness of the subs.

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

To ensure your Bourbon BBQ Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs are perfect every time, consider these handy tips.

• Use Lean Ground Beef: Opting for an 80/20 lean-to-fat ratio helps keep meatballs juicy without being greasy.
• Don’t Overmix: Mix ingredients just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tough meatballs.
• Adjust Seasoning: Feel free to tweak spices based on your taste preference; adding cayenne pepper can give it a kick!
• Toast Your Rolls: Toasting the sub rolls adds texture and prevents them from getting soggy when filled with sauce.

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

Pairing these delicious subs with complementary sides can create a well-rounded meal. Consider these tasty options.

1. Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy sweet potato fries offer a sweet contrast to the savory meatballs.
2. Garden Salad: A light garden salad provides freshness and balances out the richness of the subs.
3. Potato Wedges: Seasoned potato wedges are perfect for dipping into extra bourbon BBQ sauce.
4. Corn on the Cob: Grilled corn on the cob adds a delightful crunch and sweetness that pairs nicely with barbecue flavors.
5. Baked Beans: A classic side for any barbecue dish that adds heartiness and depth to your meal.
6. Macaroni and Cheese: Creamy mac and cheese is always a crowd-pleaser, making it an excellent comfort food companion.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Bourbon BBQ Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs can be simple, but there are a few common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Overmixing the meatball mixture: Mixing too vigorously can lead to tough meatballs. Combine the ingredients gently until just mixed for a tender bite.
• Skipping the browning step: Browning adds flavor and texture. Don’t skip this step; it enhances the overall taste of your subs.
• Ignoring the meatball size: Unevenly sized meatballs cook at different rates. Aim for consistent sizes (about 1.5 inches) for even cooking.
• Using low-quality BBQ sauce: The sauce makes a big difference in flavor. Choose a good-quality bourbon BBQ sauce for the best results.
• Not toasting the sub rolls: Toasting adds crunch and prevents sogginess. Always toast your rolls before assembling your subs.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Bourbon BBQ Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs Ready in 30 Minutes

• Wrap each sub tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating Bourbon BBQ Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs Ready in 30 Minutes

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Wrap in foil and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, covered, for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long do Bourbon BBQ Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs last?

These subs can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months.

Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the meatballs a day in advance. Just store them uncooked in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook.

What should I serve with Bourbon BBQ Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs Ready in 30 Minutes?

These subs pair well with coleslaw, potato chips, or a light salad for a complete meal.

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute that will still provide delicious flavor when combined with bourbon BBQ sauce.

Are these subs kid-friendly?

Yes! Most kids love the combination of meatballs, cheese, and crispy bacon wrapped in bread.

Final Thoughts

Bourbon BBQ Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs are not only satisfying but also offer a delightful twist on classic flavors. Feel free to customize them by adding your favorite toppings or using different cheeses. Give this recipe a try—it’s perfect for gatherings or family dinners!