Bourbon BBQ Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs Ready in 30 Minutes

If you’re looking for a quick and delicious dinner idea, you’ve landed in the right place! These Bourbon BBQ Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs Ready in 30 Minutes are sure to be a hit at your table. With juicy meatballs simmered in a sweet and smoky barbecue sauce and layered with melty cheese and crispy turkey bacon, this dish combines all the best flavors of a backyard barbecue into one comforting handheld meal. Perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, these subs make mealtime effortless and oh-so-satisfying.

What makes this recipe truly special is how easy it is to put together. In just 30 minutes, you can enjoy a hearty meal that feels indulgent without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser—who doesn’t love meatballs? Let’s dive into why you’ll adore this recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With only 30 minutes from start to finish, you’ll have a delicious meal ready before you know it.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves meatballs, making this dish perfect for picky eaters and family dinners alike.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare the meatballs ahead of time and simply heat them up when you’re ready to eat!
• Flavor Packed: The combination of bourbon BBQ sauce with turkey bacon brings an irresistible taste that will keep you coming back for more.
• Customizable: Easily swap out ingredients based on your preferences or dietary needs—this recipe is very flexible!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Making these Bourbon BBQ Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs is super easy with simple, wholesome ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this delicious dish:

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

Now that we have our ingredients ready, let’s get started on making these scrumptious subs!

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to play around with different ingredients to suit your taste or what you have on hand. Here are some fun variations:

• Swap the protein: Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option.
• Change the cheese: Try pepper jack or mozzarella for a different cheesy flavor.
• Add veggies: Toss in some chopped bell peppers or onions into the meat mixture for extra flavor and nutrition.
• Go gluten-free: Substitute regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free ones to accommodate dietary needs.

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: Mix the Meatball Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Gently mix until everything is just combined; over-mixing can lead to tough meatballs.

Step 3: Form the Meatballs

Shape your mixture into meatballs about 1.5 inches in diameter. You should end up with approximately 16-20 meatballs. Making them uniform helps them cook evenly!

Step 4: Brown the Meatballs

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the meatballs in a single layer. Browning them on all sides adds great flavor through caramelization—about 5-7 minutes total will do!

Step 5: Simmer in BBQ Sauce

After browning, return all meatballs to the skillet. Pour the bourbon BBQ sauce over them and reduce heat to low. Let them simmer for about 10 minutes; this allows those amazing flavors to meld together beautifully!

Step 6: Toast Your Sub Rolls

While the meatballs are simmering away, slice your sub rolls lengthwise without cutting all the way through. Place them on a baking sheet and toast them in your preheated oven for about 5 minutes until they’re golden brown.

Step 7: Assemble Your Subs

Now comes the fun part! Place 4-5 meatballs inside each toasted roll and spoon some extra sauce over them.

Step 8: Add Cheese and Turkey Bacon

Top each sub with about ¼ cup shredded cheddar cheese and break up two slices of crispy turkey bacon on top for that added crunch.

Step 9: Melt That Cheese!

For an extra-melty finish, return the assembled subs back to the oven for another 2-3 minutes until that cheese is gooey perfection.

Step 10: Serve & Enjoy!

Serve your Bourbon BBQ Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs immediately with additional bourbon BBQ sauce on the side for dipping—because who doesn’t love extra sauce?

And there you have it—a delightful dinner ready in no time! Enjoy every bite!

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

Get ready to impress your family and friends with these flavorful subs! Here are some handy tips to ensure your meatball subs come out perfectly every time.

• Use lean ground beef: Opting for an 80/20 lean-to-fat ratio ensures juicy meatballs that won’t dry out during cooking, giving you the perfect texture and flavor.

• Season well: Don’t be shy with the spices! Seasoning the meatball mixture properly enhances the flavor profile, making each bite delicious and satisfying.

• Don’t overcrowd the pan: When browning your meatballs, make sure to give them enough space. Overcrowding can lead to steaming instead of browning, which is key for developing that rich flavor.

• Toast your rolls: A quick toast not only adds a lovely crunch but also helps hold up against the sauce, preventing sogginess. It’s a simple step that makes a big difference!

• Experiment with toppings: While cheddar cheese and Turkey Bacon are fantastic, feel free to get creative! Try adding sliced jalapeños for heat or fresh herbs for brightness to customize your subs.

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

These Bourbon BBQ Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs are not just delicious; they’re also a feast for the eyes when presented well. Here are some serving ideas to elevate your dish!

Garnishes

• Fresh parsley or cilantro: Chopped fresh herbs add a vibrant touch and brighten up the flavors of your subs.
• Pickles: A few dill pickle slices on top or on the side provide a crunchy contrast that complements the savory meatballs beautifully.

Side Dishes

• Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy sweet potato fries offer a delightful sweetness and are a healthier alternative to regular fries. Their natural sweetness pairs wonderfully with BBQ flavors.

• Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds a refreshing crunch and balances out the richness of the meatballs and sauce. Plus, it’s easy to whip up ahead of time!

• Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn on the cob is a classic summer side that works wonderfully here. The sweetness of the corn complements the smoky BBQ sauce nicely.

• Mixed Green Salad: A simple mixed green salad with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and a light vinaigrette provides a crisp contrast and rounds out the meal beautifully.

Now that you have all these tips and serving suggestions at hand, you’re ready to create an unforgettable dining experience with your Bourbon BBQ Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Bourbon BBQ Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs are perfect for meal prep, making them an excellent choice for busy weeknights or gatherings. You can easily prepare the meatballs in advance and store them for later use, ensuring you always have a delicious meal on hand.

Storing Leftovers

• Place any leftover meatball subs in an airtight container.
• Store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• To keep the bread from getting soggy, consider storing the meatballs and rolls separately.

Freezing

• Allow the meatballs to cool completely before freezing.
• Place cooked meatballs in a freezer-safe bag or container, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. You can also freeze the BBQ sauce separately if desired.

Reheating

• To reheat frozen meatballs, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator.
• Heat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, or microwave until hot.
• For assembled subs, wrap them in foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this recipe that might help you out!

How long does it take to make Bourbon BBQ Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs Ready in 30 Minutes?

This recipe is designed to be quick and easy, allowing you to enjoy your Bourbon BBQ Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs in just 30 minutes from start to finish!

Can I make these Bourbon BBQ Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the meatballs and even assemble the subs ahead of time. Just follow the storage tips above to keep everything fresh!

Can I substitute ground turkey for ground beef?

Yes, feel free to use ground turkey if you prefer a lighter option! The flavors will still be delicious with the bourbon BBQ sauce.

What can I serve with these meatball subs?

These subs pair wonderfully with a side of coleslaw, sweet potato fries, or a simple green salad for a well-rounded meal.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these Bourbon BBQ Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs as much as I do! They’re not only quick and easy but also packed with flavor that everyone will love. Whether it’s for a casual dinner or a gathering with friends, these subs are sure to impress. Happy cooking, and don’t hesitate to share your experiences or variations on this recipe—I’d love to hear from you!