Bourbon BBQ Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs Ready in 30 Minutes

If you’re looking for a quick and delicious meal that brings the family together, you’ve landed in the right spot! These Bourbon BBQ Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs Ready in 30 Minutes are not just a recipe; they’re an experience. The smoky sweetness of the bourbon BBQ sauce combined with juicy meatballs and crispy turkey bacon makes for an unbeatable flavor combination. Plus, they’re perfect for busy weeknights or casual get-togethers with friends. Trust me, once you try these, they’ll become a favorite in your household!

Imagine sinking your teeth into a warm sub filled with tender meatballs and melted cheese—pure comfort food bliss! This recipe is super straightforward, making it ideal for those who want to whip up something special without spending hours in the kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to prepare: With just 30 minutes from start to finish, these subs fit perfectly into any busy schedule.
• Family-approved: Kids and adults alike will love the cheesy, savory goodness packed into each bite.
• Make-ahead friendly: You can prep the meatballs ahead of time and simply heat them up when you’re ready to serve!
• Customizable options: Feel free to tweak the ingredients to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs.
• Satisfying flavors: The combination of bourbon BBQ sauce and turkey bacon delivers a mouthwatering experience everyone will rave about.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple, wholesome ingredients is half the fun! You’ll find everything you need right at your local grocery store. Let’s dive into what you’ll need to create these delectable 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! Here are some fun ideas to mix things up:

• Swap the protein: Use ground turkey or chicken if you’re looking for a lighter option.
• Add veggies: Toss some finely chopped bell peppers or onions into the meatball mixture for added flavor and nutrition.
• Change the cheese: Swap out cheddar for pepper jack or mozzarella for a different cheesy twist.
• Go gluten-free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and sub rolls to make this dish suitable for gluten-sensitive diners.

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 your meatballs are ready.

Step 2: Mix Your Meatball Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mixing gently is key here; overmixing can lead to tough meatballs. Just combine until everything is evenly mixed!

Step 3: Shape the Meatballs

Now it’s time to form those delicious meatballs! Roll the mixture into balls about 1.5 inches in diameter—aim for around 16-20 meatballs. This size ensures they’ll cook evenly and fit snugly in your sub rolls.

Step 4: Brown the Meatballs

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. When it’s hot enough (you’ll know by testing with a drop of water), add your meatballs in a single layer. Browning them on all sides adds flavor and texture—about 5-7 minutes should do it!

Step 5: Simmer in Sauce

Once browned, return all meatballs to the skillet. Pour that luscious bourbon BBQ sauce over them and reduce heat to low. Simmering allows those flavors to meld beautifully—just give them about 10 minutes while stirring occasionally.

Step 6: Toast Your Sub Rolls

While your meatballs are simmering away, slice open your sub rolls without cutting all the way through. Place them on a baking sheet and pop them into the preheated oven for about 5 minutes until golden brown. Toasting adds an extra layer of texture that everyone loves!

Step 7: Assemble Your Subs

Take those toasted rolls out of the oven and fill each one with 4-5 meatballs. Don’t forget to drizzle some extra sauce on top—deliciousness comes first!

Step 8: Add Cheese and Turkey Bacon

Sprinkle each sub with about ¼ cup of shredded cheddar cheese followed by two slices of crispy turkey bacon (broken up if you like). This melty topping is what dreams are made of!

Step 9: Melt That Cheese!

For an extra cheesy experience, return your assembled subs back to the oven for another 2-3 minutes until that cheese is fully melted and bubbly.

Step 10: Serve It Up!

Enjoy these scrumptious subs immediately! Serve with additional bourbon BBQ sauce on the side for dipping—it’s guaranteed to be a hit at any meal.

Now that you’ve got this delightful recipe down pat, get ready for compliments from family and friends alike! Enjoy every bite of these Bourbon BBQ Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs Ready in 30 Minutes!

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

These Bourbon BBQ Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs are not just quick to prepare; with a few pro tips, you can elevate them to a whole new level of deliciousness!

• Use lean ground beef: Opting for an 80/20 lean-to-fat ratio ensures that your meatballs remain juicy without being overly greasy. This balance helps maintain the integrity of the meatballs while allowing the flavors to shine.

• Don’t overmix the meatball mixture: Gently mixing the ingredients helps keep the meatballs tender and prevents them from becoming tough. Just combine until everything is incorporated for that perfect bite.

• Simmer in sauce: After browning, allow the meatballs to simmer in bourbon BBQ sauce. This step not only infuses flavor but also keeps the meatballs moist and succulent, making every bite a burst of goodness.

• Toast your sub rolls: Toasting the rolls before filling them adds a delightful crunch and serves as a barrier against moisture from the sauce, keeping your subs from getting soggy too quickly.

• Customize toppings: Feel free to get creative with toppings! Adding jalapeños or pickles can provide a nice kick, while fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley can add freshness and color to your dish.

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

Serving these flavorful subs is all about presentation and complementing their delicious taste! Here are some ideas for making your meal both beautiful and appetizing.

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley not only adds color but also enhances the overall flavor profile with its bright and slightly peppery notes.

• Sliced green onions: These bring a mild onion flavor and a pop of color that brightens up each sub, making them visually appealing.

Side Dishes

• Sweet potato fries: Crispy sweet potato fries are a fantastic side that balances the savory flavors of the subs with their natural sweetness. Plus, they’re easy to bake alongside in the oven!

• Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw provides a refreshing contrast to the rich meatballs. The creaminess and tanginess will complement your subs beautifully while adding texture.

• Corn on the cob: Grilled or boiled corn on the cob is a classic summer side that pairs well with barbecue flavors. It’s simple to prepare and always a crowd-pleaser!

• Potato salad: A creamy potato salad can serve as a hearty side dish that rounds out this meal perfectly. Its cool texture is comforting while balancing out the warmth of the meatball subs.

With these tips and serving ideas, you’ll be ready to impress everyone at your next gathering or family dinner with delightful Bourbon BBQ Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs! Enjoy every delicious bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Bourbon BBQ Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs are not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can easily make them ahead of time for busy weekdays or special gatherings.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover meatball subs in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• They will keep well for 3-4 days.
• If you have leftover sauce, store it separately to prevent the rolls from getting soggy.

Freezing

• To freeze, assemble the meatballs and sauce but wait to add cheese and bacon until you’re ready to serve.
• Place the meatballs in a freezer-safe bag or container. They will last up to 3 months in the freezer.
• To freeze assembled subs, wrap them tightly in foil or plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe container.

Reheating

• For refrigerated leftovers, reheat in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or until warmed through.
• If frozen, let them thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• For best results, reheat assembled subs in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through and cheese is melted.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about making these scrumptious meatball subs!

Can I make Bourbon BBQ Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs Ready in 30 Minutes with ground turkey?

Absolutely! Ground turkey is a fantastic substitute if you’re looking for a leaner option. Just ensure you season well to enhance the flavor.

What makes these Bourbon BBQ Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs Ready in 30 Minutes so special?

The combination of juicy meatballs simmered in rich bourbon BBQ sauce, paired with crispy turkey bacon and melted cheddar cheese, creates a mouthwatering experience that’s quick and comforting!

How do I adjust the spice levels in these meatball subs?

You can easily adjust the spices according to your taste. If you prefer more heat, consider adding cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the meat mixture or BBQ sauce.

Can I use different types of cheese with these meatball subs?

Yes! Feel free to experiment with other types of cheese like Monterey Jack or pepper jack for a bit of spice. Just remember that cheddar melts beautifully!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these Bourbon BBQ Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs! They’re perfect for gatherings or a cozy night at home. Remember, cooking is all about having fun and sharing good food with loved ones. Dive into this recipe and savor each delicious bite—you won’t regret it!