Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs Ready in 30 Minutes
These Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs Ready in 30 Minutes are a fantastic way to enjoy the classic flavors of a burger in a fun and portable format. Perfect for game days, family dinners, or casual gatherings, these subs combine juicy meatballs simmered in bourbon BBQ sauce with melty cheese and crispy bacon. The result is a mouthwatering meal that everyone will love.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: With just 30 minutes of cooking time, you can have a delicious meal on the table fast.
- Flavors: The bourbon BBQ sauce adds a sweet and smoky taste that elevates the meatballs beyond ordinary.
- Customizable: You can easily adjust ingredients or toppings based on your preferences, making it versatile for everyone.
- Perfect for Sharing: These subs are great for parties or potlucks, letting guests enjoy them as handheld snacks.
- Comfort Food Delight: Combining cheese, bacon, and meatballs creates an irresistible comfort food experience.
Tools and Preparation
Having the right tools makes cooking easier and more enjoyable. For this recipe, you’ll need a few essential items to ensure everything goes smoothly.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- large mixing bowl
- skillet
- baking sheet
- oven
- measuring spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Large Mixing Bowl: Ideal for combining all ingredients without spilling.
- Skillet: Perfect for browning the meatballs evenly before simmering them in sauce.
- Baking Sheet: Useful for toasting the sub rolls to achieve that perfect crunch.
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 Serving
- 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). This ensures that your sub rolls toast perfectly while you prepare the meatballs.
Step 2: Prepare the Meatball Mixture
In a large bowl, combine the following ingredients:
1. Ground beef
2. Breadcrumbs
3. Egg
4. Garlic powder
5. Onion powder
6. Smoked paprika
7. Salt
8. Black pepper
Mix gently until everything is just combined.
Step 3: Form the Meatballs
Shape the mixture into meatballs about 1.5 inches in diameter, aiming for approximately 16-20 meatballs.
Step 4: Brown the Meatballs
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot:
Add meatballs in a single layer.
Brown them on all sides for about 5-7 minutes total.
Step 5: Simmer in BBQ Sauce
Once browned:
1. Return all meatballs to the skillet.
2. Pour bourbon BBQ sauce over them.
3. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10 minutes, stirring gently occasionally.
Step 6: Toast Sub Rolls
While your meatballs are simmering:
Slice each sub roll lengthwise without cutting all the way through.
Place them on a baking sheet and toast in the preheated oven for about 5 minutes until golden brown.
Step 7: Assemble Your Subs
Place 4-5 meatballs inside each toasted roll and spoon extra sauce over them.
Step 8: Add Cheese and Bacon
Top each sub with:
¼ cup shredded cheddar cheese
2 slices of crispy bacon (broken into pieces if desired).
Step 9: Melt the Cheese
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 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
These Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs are perfect for any gathering or casual dinner. You can serve them in a variety of ways to enhance the flavors and make your meal even more enjoyable.
Casual Gatherings
- On a Platter: Arrange the meatball subs on a large platter for easy sharing. This makes it convenient for guests to grab their favorite.
- With Dipping Sauces: Offer extra bourbon BBQ sauce, ranch dressing, or spicy mustard as dipping options for added flavor.
Game Day Treat
- Finger Food Style: Cut each sub into smaller pieces to make them bite-sized. They are perfect for munching while watching the game.
- Serve with Snacks: Pair the subs with chips or pretzels to create a complete snack spread that everyone will love.
Family Dinner
- Plated with Sides: Serve each sub on an individual plate alongside a fresh salad or coleslaw for a balanced meal.
- With Pickles: Include dill pickles on the side to add a crunchy contrast to the juicy meatballs.
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, consider these tips that enhance both flavor and presentation.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh ground beef and homemade breadcrumbs elevate the taste significantly compared to pre-packaged versions.
- Don’t Overmix: When combining ingredients for the meatballs, mix gently. This keeps them tender and juicy rather than tough.
- Adjust Seasoning: Feel free to tweak spices according to your taste preferences. Adding cayenne pepper can give a nice kick.
- Toast Rolls Properly: Toasting your rolls until golden brown adds texture and prevents sogginess from the sauce.
- Layer Smartly: Stack ingredients thoughtfully in your subs, starting with meatballs, then cheese, and finishing with bacon for an ideal bite every time.
- Serve Hot: These subs are best enjoyed right after assembling; they’re at their peak deliciousness when served hot.
Best Side Dishes for Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs Ready in 30 Minutes
Pair your Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs with delightful side dishes that complement their rich flavors. Here are some great options:
- Coleslaw: A crunchy slaw adds freshness and balances the richness of the subs. Try a vinegar-based dressing for a tangy twist.
- Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy sweet potato fries offer a sweet contrast to the savory meatballs. Bake them for an easy side option.
- Potato Salad: Creamy potato salad is always a crowd-pleaser and pairs well with hearty sandwiches like these meatball subs.
- Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn on the cob brings summer vibes and sweetness that complements bourbon flavors beautifully.
- Baked Beans: Hearty baked beans add sweetness and depth, making this classic pairing ideal for any barbecue meal.
- Garden Salad: A simple garden salad with refreshing greens provides a light counterbalance to the richness of the cheeseburger subs.
- Macaroni Salad: Creamy macaroni salad is another comfort food classic that works well alongside these flavorful meatballs.
- Pickle Chips: Add pickle chips as a crunchy side that cuts through the richness of the meatballs while enhancing their flavor profile.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs, a few common mistakes can diminish your dish’s flavor and texture. Here are some tips to help you achieve the best results.
- Overmixing the meatball mixture: Mixing too much can make your meatballs tough. Combine the ingredients gently until just mixed for tender meatballs.
- Skipping the browning step: Not browning the meatballs prevents that rich, deep flavor from developing. Always brown them in a skillet for a delicious crust before adding the sauce.
- Using stale breadcrumbs: Stale breadcrumbs can lead to dry meatballs. Ensure your breadcrumbs are fresh for optimal moisture and flavor.
- Ignoring cooking times: Cooking the meatballs too long or not long enough can affect their texture. Follow the instructions closely to ensure they are perfectly cooked.
- Not toasting the sub rolls: Untoasted rolls can become soggy. Toasting adds a nice crunch and keeps them sturdy when filled with meatballs.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store any leftover Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs in an airtight container.
- They will last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs Ready in 30 Minutes
- Wrap each assembled sub tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
- Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.
Reheating Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs Ready in 30 Minutes
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Wrap the subs in foil and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate, cover loosely, and heat on high for about 1-2 minutes or until hot.
- Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a splash of water. Cover and steam for about 5 minutes until heated.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions regarding Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs.
How long does it take to make Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs Ready in 30 Minutes?
With prep and cook time combined, these delicious meatball subs take approximately 40 minutes from start to finish.
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for ground beef if you prefer a leaner option. The flavor will differ slightly but remains tasty.
What kind of BBQ sauce works best for these meatball subs?
A sweet and smoky bourbon BBQ sauce pairs perfectly with these meatballs, enhancing their flavors beautifully.
Can I make Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the meatballs and sauce ahead of time and refrigerate them until you’re ready to assemble your subs.
Final Thoughts
These Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs are a delightful twist on classic burgers. They offer comfort and satisfaction with every bite while being quick enough for any weeknight dinner. Feel free to customize by adding your favorite toppings or adjusting spices for extra flavor!
Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs Ready in 30 Minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Experience the ultimate in comfort food with these Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs, ready in just 30 minutes! This recipe brings together juicy meatballs simmered in a rich bourbon BBQ sauce, topped with gooey cheese and crispy bacon—all nestled in perfectly toasted sub rolls. Whether it’s game day, a family dinner, or a casual gathering, these portable delights are sure to please everyone at the table. The bold flavors make for a satisfying meal that’s as fun to eat as it is delicious. Get ready for compliments!
Ingredients
- 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
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup bourbon BBQ sauce
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 4 sub rolls
- 8 slices crispy bacon
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until combined.
- Form the mixture into meatballs (about 16-20).
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and brown the meatballs on all sides for about 5-7 minutes.
- Pour bourbon BBQ sauce over browned meatballs and simmer on low for 10 minutes.
- Slice sub rolls lengthwise and toast them in the oven for about 5 minutes.
- Assemble subs by placing meatballs inside toasted rolls, topping with cheese and broken bacon pieces.
- Return subs to the oven for an additional 2-3 minutes until cheese melts.
- Serve hot with extra bourbon BBQ sauce on the side.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 sub (approximately 250g)
- Calories: 650
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 1020mg
- Fat: 38g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 20g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 34g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
