Bourbon BBQ Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs Ready in 30 Minutes

If you’re looking for a delicious and satisfying meal that can be whipped up in no time, then you’re going to love these Bourbon BBQ Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs Ready in 30 Minutes! This recipe is one of my all-time favorites because it combines the flavors we all adore from classic cheeseburgers into a fun, handheld delight. The meatballs are juicy and packed with flavor, smothered in a sweet and smoky bourbon BBQ sauce that will leave everyone asking for seconds.

Whether it’s a busy weeknight dinner or a casual family gathering, these subs are perfect for any occasion. They’re quick to prepare, incredibly flavorful, and oh-so-comforting. Plus, who doesn’t love the combination of melted cheddar cheese and crispy turkey bacon? Trust me; this dish will become a go-to in your kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to make: With just 30 minutes needed from start to finish, you can get dinner on the table without stress.
• Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy these tasty meatball subs—perfect for picky eaters!
• Make-ahead convenience: Prepare the meatballs ahead of time and store them in the fridge or freezer for easy meals later.
• Irresistible flavors: The combination of turkey bacon, cheddar cheese, and bourbon BBQ sauce is simply mouthwatering!
• Customizable options: Feel free to tweak the toppings or sauces to suit your family’s taste preferences.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These are simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully to create these delicious subs. You probably have many of them already in your pantry!

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 wonderfully flexible! Here are some fun ideas to mix things up:

• Swap the protein: Try using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option.
• Change up the cheese: Go for pepper jack or gouda if you want an extra kick or unique flavor.
• Add veggies: Load your subs with sautéed bell peppers or onions for added nutrition and flavor.
• Make it spicy: Mix in some chopped jalapeños or hot sauce into the meatball mixture for a bit of heat.

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 toast perfectly while you prepare the meatballs.

Step 2: Prepare the Meatball Mixture

In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mixing gently until just combined is essential here; over-mixing can lead to tough meatballs. We want them tender and juicy!

Step 3: Form the Meatballs

Roll the mixture into meatballs about 1.5 inches in diameter—aim for approximately 16-20 meatballs. This size is just right for fitting comfortably into your sub rolls.

Step 4: Brown the Meatballs

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add your meatballs in a single layer (you might need to work in batches). Browning them on all sides creates those delicious caramelized flavors that elevate your subs.

Step 5: Simmer in BBQ Sauce

Once browned, return all meatballs to the skillet and pour over the bourbon BBQ sauce. Lower the heat and let them simmer gently for about 10 minutes. This step allows those wonderful flavors to meld together beautifully.

Step 6: Toast Your Sub Rolls

While your meatballs are simmering away, slice your sub rolls lengthwise without cutting through completely. Place them on a baking sheet and toast them in the oven for about five minutes until they’re golden brown—this adds great texture!

Step 7: Assemble Your Subs

Now comes the fun part! Place 4-5 meatballs inside each toasted roll, spooning extra sauce over them. Top each sub generously with shredded cheddar cheese and crispy turkey bacon pieces.

Step 8: Melt That Cheese!

For extra melty goodness, return your assembled subs back into the oven for an additional 2-3 minutes until that cheese is fully melted—talk about comfort food perfection!

Step 9: Serve and Enjoy!

Serve immediately with extra bourbon BBQ sauce on the side for dipping. Enjoy every bite of these delightful Bourbon BBQ Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs!

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

These meatball subs are not only delicious but also quick to prepare! Here are some handy tips to ensure your meal is a smashing success.

• Use lean ground turkey: Opting for lean ground turkey instead of beef can reduce the fat content while still delivering juicy meatballs. Plus, it helps keep the overall dish lighter and healthier.

• Chill the meat mixture: If you have time, refrigerate the meatball mixture for about 15 minutes before forming the meatballs. This helps them hold their shape better during cooking.

• Don’t overcrowd the pan: When browning the meatballs, make sure to give them enough space in the skillet. Overcrowding can lead to steaming instead of browning, which means less flavor and texture.

• Experiment with BBQ sauce: Feel free to try different flavors of BBQ sauce! A spicy variant or one with a hint of honey can add a unique twist to your subs.

• Toast the rolls just right: Keep an eye on the sub rolls while toasting; they should be golden and crispy. This will help hold all those juicy meatballs and sauce without getting soggy too quickly!

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

Serving these mouthwatering subs is all about presentation and pairing them with complementary sides. Here are some delightful ideas for serving!

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh parsley: A light sprinkle adds a pop of color and freshness that brightens up each bite.
• Sliced jalapeños: For those who enjoy a little heat, add sliced jalapeños on top or on the side for an extra kick.
• Pickles or pickle slices: The tangy crunch from pickles can beautifully balance the richness of the cheese and sauce.

Side Dishes

• Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy on the outside and soft inside, sweet potato fries offer a sweet contrast that pairs nicely with savory meatball subs.
• Coleslaw: A refreshing coleslaw made with crunchy cabbage and a light vinaigrette can cut through the richness of the subs, adding a delightful crunch.
• Corn on the Cob: Grilled or roasted corn on the cob brushed with a bit of butter makes for an easy, fun side that complements BBQ flavors perfectly.
• Mixed Green Salad: A simple salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light dressing provides a healthy balance and cleanses your palate between bites.

By following these serving suggestions, you’ll create an inviting feast that’s sure to impress family and friends alike! Enjoy every delicious moment.

Make Ahead and Storage

These Bourbon BBQ Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs are perfect for meal prep! They not only come together quickly but also store well, making them a great option for busy weeknights or packed lunches.

Storing Leftovers

• Place any leftover meatball subs in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• To prevent sogginess, keep the meatballs and sub rolls separate if possible.

Freezing

• Allow the meatballs to cool completely before freezing.
• Place individual meatballs in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Transfer frozen meatballs to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• For frozen meatballs, reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through (about 10-15 minutes at 350°F/175°C).
• If reheating leftovers, pop them in the microwave or warm them gently on the stove with a splash of bourbon BBQ sauce to keep them juicy.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious recipe!

Can I make Bourbon BBQ Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs Ready in 30 Minutes ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the meatballs and sauce ahead of time, then assemble the subs right before serving. Simply reheat the meatballs and sauce before placing them in toasted rolls.

What can I substitute if I don’t have bourbon BBQ sauce?

If bourbon BBQ sauce isn’t available, you can use any sweet BBQ sauce you like. You could also mix regular BBQ sauce with a dash of liquid smoke for added flavor!

How do I ensure my Bourbon BBQ Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs are juicy?

Using ground beef with an 80/20 lean-to-fat ratio helps ensure juiciness. Be careful not to overmix your meatball mixture; combine just until ingredients are incorporated.

Are these subs kid-friendly?

Absolutely! These flavorful meatball subs are sure to be a hit with kids and adults alike. The sweetness of the bourbon BBQ sauce paired with cheesy goodness makes them irresistible!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these Bourbon BBQ Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs! They’re not just meals; they’re moments shared with family and friends around the table. Whether you’re treating yourself after a long day or sharing with loved ones, these delightful subs are sure to please. Enjoy every bite, and don’t hesitate to make this recipe your own!