Bourbon BBQ Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs Ready in 30 Minutes

If you’re looking for a quick and delicious weeknight meal that the whole family will love, these Bourbon BBQ Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs Ready in 30 Minutes are just what you need! They blend all the flavors of a classic burger into tender meatballs that are simmered in a sweet and smoky BBQ sauce. These subs are perfect for busy evenings or casual gatherings with friends. Plus, they are easy to whip up, making them a go-to favorite in my household!

What makes this recipe truly special is how it brings everyone together around the table. The combination of juicy turkey bacon and melty cheddar cheese nestled in toasted sub rolls is simply irresistible. You’ll find yourself reaching for seconds (and maybe even thirds!) because they are that good!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to prepare: With just 30 minutes from start to finish, these meatball subs fit perfectly into your busy schedule.
• Family-friendly flavors: Everyone loves the classic taste of cheeseburgers, and these meatball subs bring that comfort food experience to the table.
• Make-ahead convenience: You can prepare the meatballs ahead of time and store them in the fridge or freezer, making dinner a breeze!
• Customizable options: Feel free to switch up ingredients or toppings to suit your family’s tastes.
• Satisfying and hearty: Each bite is packed with flavor, ensuring you’ll feel full and satisfied after enjoying these tasty subs.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To create these mouthwatering Bourbon BBQ Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs, you’ll need some simple, wholesome ingredients. Gather these items before you get started:

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 Assembly

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

Variations

This recipe is flexible and can be adapted to fit different tastes or dietary preferences. Here are some fun variation ideas:

• Swap the protein: Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option while still keeping those delicious flavors intact.
• Add veggies: Mix in finely chopped bell peppers or onions into the meatball mixture for added flavor and nutrition.
• Change the cheese: Try using pepper jack cheese for an extra kick or mozzarella for a milder taste.
• Make it spicy: Add some diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the BBQ sauce for those who enjoy a little heat.

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

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) ensures that your sub rolls toast perfectly while you cook the meatballs. A warm oven makes all the difference when it comes to achieving that golden-brown crust.

Step 2: Prepare the Meatball Mixture

In a large bowl, combine all your meatball ingredients: ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mixing gently until just combined is key; overmixing can make your meatballs tough.

Step 3: Form and Cook the Meatballs

Shape your mixture into golf-ball-sized meatballs—aim for about 16-20. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Browning them on all sides not only adds flavor but also gives them that beautiful color we all love!

Step 4: Simmer in BBQ Sauce

Once browned, return all meatballs to the skillet and pour over that delicious bourbon BBQ sauce. Lowering the heat allows them to simmer gently for about 10 minutes—this is where all those amazing flavors meld together beautifully.

Step 5: Toast Your Sub Rolls

While your meatballs simmer away, slice sub rolls lengthwise (but don’t cut all the way through) and place them on a baking sheet. Toasting them for about five minutes gives a wonderful crunch that pairs perfectly with saucy meatballs.

Step 6: Assemble Your Subs

Fill each toasted roll with 4-5 meatballs and spoon extra BBQ sauce over them. Top with shredded cheddar cheese and crispy Turkey Bacon pieces—this is where things get seriously delicious!

Step 7: Melt That Cheese

For an extra cheesy experience, pop those assembled subs back into the oven for another couple of minutes until everything is gooey and melted together.

Step 8: Serve & Enjoy!

Serve immediately with extra bourbon BBQ sauce on the side for dipping. Trust me; everyone will want more once they take their first bite!

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

Creating these mouthwatering meatball subs is a breeze with a few handy tips!

• Use lean ground beef: Choosing an 80/20 blend ensures your meatballs are juicy without being overly greasy, making for a perfect bite every time.
• Don’t overmix the meatball mixture: Gently combining the ingredients helps keep the meatballs tender and prevents them from becoming tough during cooking.
• Preheat your oven while prepping: Getting your oven ready at the start saves time when you’re toasting the sub rolls, allowing everything to come together seamlessly.
• Customize your BBQ sauce: Feel free to mix in some spices or even a bit of honey for added sweetness, creating a unique flavor profile that suits your taste buds.
• Experiment with different cheeses: While cheddar is delicious, trying pepper jack or gouda can add a fun twist and extra creaminess to your subs.

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

The presentation of your Bourbon BBQ Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs can take this dish from simple to spectacular. Here are some ideas on how to serve them up with flair!

Garnishes

• Fresh parsley or cilantro: Chopped herbs not only add color but also provide a fresh flavor contrast to the rich meatballs and cheese.
• Sliced jalapeños: For those who enjoy a kick, adding fresh or pickled jalapeños can elevate the heat and flavor profile of the subs.

Side Dishes

• Sweet potato fries: These crispy fries bring a hint of sweetness that pairs beautifully with the smoky flavors of the subs, creating a delightful balance.
• Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw provides a refreshing contrast in texture and a tangy element that complements the richness of the BBQ sauce.
• Corn on the cob: Grilled or roasted corn adds summer vibes and brings out the sweetness that pairs well with BBQ flavors.
• Potato salad: A classic side dish, creamy potato salad offers comfort and pairs wonderfully with hearty meatball subs.

Feel free to mix and match these suggestions to create an unforgettable meal! Enjoy every savory bite of your Bourbon BBQ Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Bourbon BBQ Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs are perfect for meal prep! Whether you’re planning lunch for the week or a quick dinner, you can make these subs ahead of time to save yourself some precious moments in the kitchen.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover meatball subs in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• They will keep well for up to 3 days.
• If possible, store the meatballs and sauce separately from the rolls to prevent sogginess.

Freezing

• To freeze, wrap individual meatball subs tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• For best results, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

• Reheat leftover subs in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through.
• You can also microwave them on a microwave-safe plate, covered with a damp paper towel, for about 1-2 minutes or until warm.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about Bourbon BBQ Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs Ready in 30 Minutes that might help clarify your cooking experience!

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef for these meatball subs?

Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great alternative if you’re looking to lighten things up. Just keep an eye on cooking times as turkey can sometimes cook faster than beef.

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

These delicious subs pair wonderfully with a side of crispy sweet potato fries or a simple salad. The contrast of flavors will elevate your meal!

Can I make these meatballs vegetarian?

To make vegetarian meatballs, consider using lentils or mushrooms as the base. Combine with breadcrumbs and spices to mimic the texture and flavor!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in creating these delightful Bourbon BBQ Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs! They’re not just easy to prepare but also bursting with flavor that everyone will love. Enjoy making them for family gatherings or a cozy night in, and don’t hesitate to get creative with your toppings! Happy cooking!