As I rummaged through my fridge on a busy weeknight, the scent of bacon sizzling in a hot skillet transformed my kitchen into a cozy retreat. With just a few ingredients, I conjured up the delightful Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs—a quick meal that felt like a culinary hug. This recipe not only satisfies cravings for something hearty and delicious but is also easily customizable to cater to various diets—perfect for everyone at the table! Whether you’re a fan of smoky flavors or looking for a crowd-pleaser for your next gathering, these subs are sure to impress. Who’s ready to take comfort food to the next level?
Why are these meatball subs irresistible?
Savory Indulgence: Each bite bursts with the rich flavor of bourbon BBQ, perfectly complementing the juicy meatballs.
Customizable Options: Whether you prefer a spicy kick or a vegetarian twist, these Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs can easily be tailored to suit every palate.
Quick & Easy: Designed for busy weeknights, this recipe ensures you can whip up an unforgettable meal in no time!
Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for gatherings, these subs are guaranteed to impress family and friends alike with their hearty goodness.
Textural Delight: The combination of crispy bacon, gooey cheese, and soft sub rolls creates a delightful contrast that you won’t forget!
Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Ingredients
• For the Meatballs
- Ground Beef (80/20) – Provides great flavor and keeps meatballs juicy. Substitution: Use ground turkey for a leaner option.
- Breadcrumbs – Helps maintain the shape of the meatballs. Note: Crushed crackers can be used as a variation.
- Egg – Acts as a binder for the mixture.
- Bourbon BBQ Sauce – Infuses sweetness and depth to the meatballs. Alternative: Use your favorite BBQ sauce if bourbon is unavailable.
• For the Toppings
- Sharp Cheddar Cheese – Adds a rich cheeseburger flavor. Variation: Swap for smoked cheddar for a different twist.
- Thick-Cut Bacon – Provides a satisfying crunch; cook until crispy.
• For the Subs
- Sub Rolls (Italian/French) – Choose rolls that are crusty on the outside and soft within.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Subs
Step 1: Prepare the Meatball Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, gently combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, and seasonings until just mixed. Be careful not to overmix, as this can toughen the meatballs. Aim for a cohesive texture. Allow it to rest for 5-10 minutes to let the breadcrumbs absorb moisture for richer flavor in your Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs.
Step 2: Shape the Meatballs
Using your hands, form the mixture into uniform meatballs, about 1.5 inches in diameter. Place each meatball on a parchment-lined baking sheet, giving them space to cook evenly. There should be about 12-16 meatballs, depending on your size. Once shaped, cover with plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to help them hold their shape while cooking.
Step 3: Brown the Meatballs
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add a drizzle of oil to prevent sticking. Once the oil is shimmering, carefully add the chilled meatballs in batches to avoid crowding. Brown each meatball for 3-4 minutes on all sides until golden brown. This caramelization enhances the flavor of your Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs.
Step 4: Simmer in BBQ Sauce
After browning, pour the bourbon BBQ sauce over the meatballs in the skillet. Use a wooden spoon to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Cover the pan with a lid and let it simmer for 10-15 minutes over low heat until the meatballs are cooked through and the sauce thickens. You’ll know they’re ready when they reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
Step 5: Toast the Sub Rolls
While the meatballs simmer, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the sub rolls on a baking sheet, cut side up, and toast them in the oven for about 5 minutes, or until the edges are crispy and golden. This step enhances the texture of your Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs and keeps the rolls from getting soggy.
Step 6: Assemble the Subs
Remove the rolls from the oven and layer the bourbon BBQ meatballs right into each toasted sub roll. For an extra touch, drizzle some additional BBQ sauce over the meatballs before topping with a generous handful of sharp cheddar cheese. Make sure the cheese is melting to create a gooey, delicious bite.
Step 7: Add the Crispy Bacon
Finish off your Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs by crumbling crispy bacon over the top of the cheese. The contrast of textures—with the crunchy bacon, gooey cheese, and tender meatballs—will elevate your meal. You can serve immediately with your favorite sides to complete your comforting feast.
Expert Tips for Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Subs
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Use Quality Beef: Opt for ground beef with a higher fat content (80/20) for juicier meatballs that melt in your mouth. Avoid lean options which can dry out.
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Perfectly Sized Meatballs: Aim for uniform meatballs about 1.5 inches in diameter so they cook evenly. Overly large meatballs may not fully cook through, affecting the final dish.
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Chill Before Cooking: Refrigerate the shaped meatballs for at least 30 minutes before browning. This helps maintain their shape and enhances texture in Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Subs.
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Simmer Gently: After browning, let the meatballs simmer in BBQ sauce on low heat to absorb flavors without drying out. Keep an eye on the cooking temperature to avoid overcooking.
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Crisp Those Rolls: Toast sub rolls just before assembling. This prevents them from becoming soggy, ensuring a delightful crunch with each bite.
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Creative Customization: Don’t be afraid to experiment with toppings! Adding jalapeños or swapping out cheeses can create a unique twist to the classic Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Subs.
Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Subs Variations
Feel free to unleash your creativity and customize these delicious meatball subs to suit your taste and dietary needs!
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Spicy Kick: Add cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños to the meatball mixture for an added layer of heat that packs a punch. It’s a fantastic way to turn the flavor up a notch!
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Mushroom Swiss: Substitute Swiss cheese and include sautéed mushrooms for an earthy flavor that complements the bourbon BBQ beautifully. This combination offers a rich and savory twist.
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Hawaiian Delight: Mix in chopped pineapple for a sweet contrast and grill slices as toppings. The sweetness of pineapple pairs perfectly with the smoky flavors, creating a tropical touch.
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Vegetarian Version: Use plant-based ground beef and vegetarian BBQ sauce to keep it meatless. This option doesn’t compromise on flavor and is a great way to include everyone at the table.
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Gluten-Free Option: Opt for gluten-free breadcrumbs and ensure the BBQ sauce is gluten-free. There are so many delicious gluten-free products available that ensure no one misses out on these tasty subs!
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Cheesy Bacon Bliss: Double the cheese by mixing cream cheese into the meatball mixture. Plus, sprinkle extra crispy bacon on top for a dreamy, cheesy delight!
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BBQ Mustard Fusion: Mix a tablespoon of spicy mustard into the BBQ sauce for a tangy twist that brightens up all the flavors. It’s an unexpected but delicious change!
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Mediterranean Twist: Incorporate feta cheese and olives into the meatball mixture for a Mediterranean spin. Serve in pita bread for a fun and unique presentation.
These variations not only enhance the flavor but also make this dish fit for every palate and occasion! For extra tips on cooking methods, check out our guide on quick meal ideas or explore delicious sides to pair with your Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Subs!
Storage Tips for Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Subs
Fridge: Store leftover Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs in an airtight container for up to 2 days. This helps maintain their moisture and delicious flavors.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze cooked meatballs separately in an airtight container. They can be kept for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: Reheat subs in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or in the microwave for 1-2 minutes until heated through.
Wrap Properly: If storing individual meatball subs, wrap them tightly in foil or plastic wrap before placing them in the fridge or freezer to prevent freezer burn.
What to Serve with Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs
Elevate your dining experience with delicious sides that perfectly complement the rich flavors of these hearty meatball subs.
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Creamy Coleslaw: A crunchy, tangy coleslaw refreshes the palate, balancing the savory richness of the meatballs with its crisp texture.
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Sweet Potato Fries: The delightful sweetness of these fries contrasts beautifully with the smoky BBQ flavors, adding a satisfying crunch to your meal.
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Garlic Bread: Golden, buttery garlic bread delivers an irresistible aroma, ideal for mopping up any leftover BBQ sauce on your plate.
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Macaroni and Cheese: Creamy and cheesy, this comfort food classic adds a nostalgic touch, making each bite a wholesome feast everyone will love.
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Pickles or Jalapeños: Offering a zesty kick, pickles or jalapeños add bright acidity that cuts through the richness of the subs, making them a great side option.
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Refreshing Green Salad: A simple salad with mixed greens and a light vinaigrette provides a fresh contrast, brightening up your meal while keeping it light and healthy.
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Iced Tea or Lemonade: Refreshing drinks like iced tea or lemonade offer a cooling balance, perfectly quenching your thirst amid the robust flavors of the subs.
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Brownies or Cheesecake: For a sweet finish, indulge in rich brownies or creamy cheesecake, creating a delightful dessert that rounds out your comfort dining experience.
Make Ahead Options
These Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs are perfect for meal prep, making your busy weeknights a breeze! You can prepare the meatball mixture and form them into balls up to 24 hours in advance; simply cover them with plastic wrap and refrigerate. Additionally, once cooked, the meatballs can be stored in the BBQ sauce and kept in the fridge for up to 3 days. To maintain quality, avoid toasting the sub rolls until you’re ready to serve, which helps prevent sogginess. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply heat the meatballs in the BBQ sauce, toast your rolls, and assemble your delicious Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs for a satisfying meal that feels freshly made!
Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right ground beef?
Absolutely! When selecting ground beef for your Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs, aim for a blend that is 80% lean and 20% fat (80/20). This ratio strikes the perfect balance between juicy flavor and moisture, keeping your meatballs tender and succulent. If you prefer a healthier option, ground turkey can be substituted, though it may yield a slightly drier result.
What’s the best way to store leftover meatball subs?
Very! Store any leftover Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. This helps retain their flavor and moisture! If you’re looking to enjoy them later, you can also wrap individual subs in plastic wrap and freeze them for up to 3 months. Just remember to label them with the date!
Can I freeze the meatballs?
Absolutely! To freeze the meatballs for your Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs, place the cooked meatballs in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Freeze for about 1-2 hours until solid, then transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag. This method prevents them from sticking together! They can be kept for up to 3 months—just thaw overnight in the fridge when you’re ready to enjoy.
What should I do if my meatballs are too dry?
If you find your meatballs are turning out on the dry side, a couple of key tips come in handy! First, ensure you’re using the right fat content in your ground beef (aim for 80/20). Incorporating a little more moisture in the form of an additional egg or some milk can also help. After shaping the meatballs, chilling them in the fridge for at least 30 minutes not only helps them hold their shape but also keeps them moist during cooking. Always make sure you’re not overcooking them, as that can lead to dryness as well!
Are these meatballs suitable for anyone with dietary restrictions?
Very! This Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs recipe is wonderfully adaptable! For those following a gluten-free diet, simply substitute the breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives like ground oats or crushed gluten-free crackers. Additionally, for a vegetarian variation, you can use plant-based ground meat and a vegetarian BBQ sauce, which adds delicious flavor without compromising on heartiness. Don’t hesitate to customize the recipe even further!
Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Subs for Ultimate Comfort Cooking
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large mixing bowl, gently combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, and seasonings until just mixed. Let it rest for 5-10 minutes.
- Using your hands, form the mixture into uniform meatballs, about 1.5 inches in diameter, and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add a drizzle of oil. Carefully add the chilled meatballs and brown each for 3-4 minutes on all sides.
- Pour the bourbon BBQ sauce over the meatballs in the skillet, cover, and let it simmer for 10-15 minutes until cooked through.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the sub rolls on a baking sheet, cut side up, and toast them for about 5 minutes.
- Remove the rolls and layer the bourbon BBQ meatballs into each toasted sub roll, adding sharp cheddar cheese on top.
- Crumble crispy bacon over the cheese before serving.
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