As I pulled open the fridge, an entirely new idea struck me—what if I could combine my love for burgers with the comfort of meatballs? Enter the Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs. This recipe isn’t just another meal; it’s a symphony of tender meatballs slathered in bourbon-infused BBQ sauce, crispy bacon, and gooey melted cheddar, all housed in a fluffy sub roll. Perfect for game day or simply craving a satisfying dish that transforms familiar flavors into something spectacular, these handheld delights are sure to impress your family and friends. Plus, they offer a dash of indulgence without sacrificing the comfort we all love. Are you ready to elevate your dinner game and dive into a flavor adventure?

Why are these meatball subs irresistible?

Flavor Explosion: The combination of bourbon BBQ sauce creates a unique and smoky taste that elevates classic meatballs to gourmet status.

Versatile Ingredients: You can easily swap ground beef for turkey or chicken, tailoring it to your dietary needs.

Crowd Pleaser: Perfect for game day gatherings or casual family dinners, these handheld subs will have everyone coming back for seconds!

Quick to Prepare: In just a few steps, you’ll have a hearty meal that’s as easy as it is delicious—ideal for busy weeknights.

Customizable Toppings: From jalapeños to slaw, these meatball subs let you get creative and add your personal touch, just like with my One Pot Cheeseburger.

Guilty Pleasure: Enjoy the rich, indulgent flavors that make every bite a comforting hug!

Whether for a family dinner or a football party, these Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs are sure to become a new favorite!

Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs Ingredients

For the Meatballs
• Ground Beef (1 lb) – Provides rich flavor and juices; optionally substitute with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
• Breadcrumbs (1/2 cup) – Acts as a binder for meatballs, maintaining a tender texture; use gluten-free breadcrumbs for a gluten-free option.
• Grated Parmesan Cheese (1/4 cup) – Enhances the meatballs with umami and depth of flavor; can be replaced with nutritional yeast for a dairy-free variant.
• Egg (1) – Binds the meatball ingredients together; adjust cooking time if using egg substitutes.
• Chopped Onion (1/4 cup) – Adds moisture and sweetness to meatballs; green onions or shallots can be substituted for a different flavor.
• Minced Garlic (2 cloves) – Introduces aroma and warmth; garlic powder may be used as a substitute.
• Salt and Pepper (to taste) – Enhances overall flavor; adjust seasoning based on personal taste.

For the Bourbon BBQ Sauce
• Bourbon (1/4 cup) – Imparts a rich, smoky flavor to the BBQ sauce; can replace with other whiskey, apple cider, or vegetable broth for non-alcoholic options.
• BBQ Sauce (1/2 cup) – Provides classic tangy and sweet BBQ flavor; use homemade or low-sugar BBQ for healthier alternatives.

For Assembly
• Cooked Crumbled Bacon (6 strips) – Adds savory crunch; for a vegetarian option, consider crispy onion straws or plant-based bacon.
• Shredded Cheddar Cheese (1/2 cup) – Creates a melty and decadent topping; try Monterey Jack or a dairy-free cheese alternative.
• Sub Rolls (4) – Serves as the vessel for the meatballs; whole grain or gluten-free rolls can be utilized.
• Olive Oil (1 tbsp) – Aids in browning meatballs for rich flavor; any neutral oil works for sautéing.

These Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs will surely be a hit, combining comfort and indulgence in every bite!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs finish cooking evenly and thoroughly. As the oven warms up, you can focus on combining your meatball ingredients, making the most of your time in the kitchen.

Step 2: Prepare the Meatball Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 pound of ground beef, ½ cup of breadcrumbs, ¼ cup of grated Parmesan cheese, 1 beaten egg, ¼ cup of chopped onion, 2 minced garlic cloves, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix these ingredients gently with your hands until just combined, being careful not to over-mix to keep the meatballs tender.

Step 3: Shape the Meatballs
Once your meatball mixture is ready, use your hands to shape it into about 18-20 meatballs, each roughly 1 inch in size. Ensure that each meatball is uniform for even cooking. Place your formed meatballs on a plate or baking sheet and set them aside as you prepare to brown them.

Step 4: Brown the Meatballs
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, carefully place your meatballs into the skillet. Sear them for about 5–7 minutes, turning occasionally to brown all sides. You want them to develop a nice golden crust while still being slightly undercooked in the center, as they will finish cooking in the oven.

Step 5: Make the BBQ Sauce
After browning, remove the meatballs from the skillet and set them aside on a plate. In the same skillet, carefully pour in ¼ cup of bourbon to deglaze, scraping up any browned bits. Then add ½ cup of BBQ sauce. Allow the mixture to simmer for about 2-3 minutes, letting the flavors meld together and the alcohol to cook off.

Step 6: Coat the Meatballs
Once the BBQ sauce is nicely combined, return the browned meatballs to the skillet, ensuring they are well-coated in the bourbon BBQ sauce. After they are properly coated, transfer them to a baking dish and spread them out evenly. This will prepare them for the final baking step, infusing them with even more flavor.

Step 7: Bake the Meatballs
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake the meatballs for 10–12 minutes, or until they are cooked through and reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C). You’ll know they are ready when they feel firm to the touch and have a sizzling sauce bubbling around them, creating that irresistible smell.

Step 8: Prepare the Sub Rolls
While the meatballs are baking, slice your sub rolls open lengthwise, being careful not to cut all the way through. Arrange them on a baking sheet. This step prepares the bread to hold the delicious meatballs and toppings once they come out of the oven, creating the perfect vessel for your Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs.

Step 9: Assemble the Subs
Once the meatballs are ready, remove them from the oven and begin assembling your subs. Place a few meatballs into each sliced sub roll, generously spooning some extra bourbon BBQ sauce over the top. Then sprinkle the cooked, crumbled bacon and ½ cup of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over each filled roll, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor.

Step 10: Melt the Cheese
Return the assembled subs to the oven for an additional 3-5 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and melted. Keep an eye on them during this time to prevent burning. The warmth of the oven will transform these Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs into a delightful, cheesy masterpiece that’s ready to be devoured.

Step 11: Add Fresh Toppings and Serve
After the cheese has melted to perfection, remove the subs from the oven. You can now add any extra toppings you desire, such as pickles, fresh lettuce, or sliced tomatoes for a beautiful, fresh contrast. Serve your Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs warm, inviting family and friends to dive into this deliciously satisfying meal.

How to Store and Freeze Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs

Fridge: Store any leftover Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs tightly wrapped or in an airtight container for up to 2 days to maintain freshness and flavor.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze unbaked meatballs (without sauce) in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.

Reheating: To reheat, warm the subs in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until heated through. This ensures the sub rolls stay soft and delicious.

Meatball Storage: If you have leftover cooked meatballs, store them separately from the rolls and sauce to prevent sogginess; they can also last in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs Variations

Feel free to get creative with your meatball subs—the possibilities are endless and oh-so-delicious!

Turkey Substitute: Replace ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option without sacrificing flavor. Each choice brings its unique essence, making it a popular twist for healthier eating.
Cheese Changes: Swap out cheddar for pepper jack to add a spicy kick. The creamy, melting texture combined with heat will elevate each bite, creating a fun surprise for your taste buds.
BBQ Sauce Remix: Use homemade BBQ sauce or a low-sugar version for a healthier alternative. This can regulate sweetness and tanginess to match your preferences perfectly.
Vegetarian Delight: For a meatless version, substitute cooked crumbled bacon with crispy onion straws or plant-based bacon. This brings crunch while keeping the indulgent feeling of a classic sub.
Add Some Heat: Top your subs with pickled jalapeños for an extra spicy flair. The kick of heat pairs beautifully with the smoky bourbon sauce, amplifying the flavor profile of the meal.
Fresh Toppings Twist: Instead of traditional lettuce and tomatoes, try adding coleslaw for a crunchy contrast. This cool and creamy addition elevates your subs with refreshing notes, making them even more satisfying.

Interested in more comforting recipes? You might also enjoy crafting cheesy deliciousness with Chicken Piccata Meatballs.

Texture Variations: Try toasting your sub rolls before filling them for a crispier texture. This added crunch enhances the overall experience, bringing each ingredient’s flavor to the forefront while keeping everything snug within the bread.

These variations ensure that your Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs remain a delightful experience every time you make them. Enjoy experimenting!

What to Serve with Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs

These meatball subs are a delicious centerpiece that invites the perfect array of complementary sides and flavors.

Crispy Coleslaw: This tangy and crunchy side adds a refreshing contrast to the rich, savory subs. A perfect palate cleanser!
Fries or Sweet Potato Fries: The crispy texture and comforting flavors of fries make them an ideal pairing for a game day feast. They’re easy to prepare and sure to please everyone.
Fresh Garden Salad: A light, vibrant salad can provide a fresh balance to the subs’ richness, and it’s a wonderful way to incorporate seasonal veggies.
Onion Rings: Crispy onion rings bring an extra touch of crunch and flavor that pairs beautifully with the meatballs. Add a side of dipping sauce for extra excitement!
Pickled Jalapeños: These zesty bites add a spicy kick and a pop of color, enhancing the overall flavor profile and providing a delightful contrast.
Beer or Iced Tea: A cold beverage such as a craft beer or sweet tea complements the dish well, elevating the meal experience into a delightful gathering moment.

Transform your dinner table into a flavor-packed experience with these perfect pairings!

Make Ahead Options

These Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time on busy weeknights! You can prepare the meatballs and coat them in the bourbon BBQ sauce up to 24 hours in advance; simply refrigerate them in an airtight container. For longer storage, freeze the unbaked meatballs for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to serve, bake the meatballs directly from the fridge or thawed state at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes. This method ensures they remain just as delicious and flavorful. Assemble the subs with cooked bacon and cheese before the final melt for a mouthwatering meal that feels fresh and satisfying!

Expert Tips for Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs

Don’t Over-Mix: Mix the meatball ingredients gently to prevent tough, dense meatballs; this keeps them light and tender.
Batch Browning: Brown meatballs in batches to maintain consistent heat in the skillet, which prevents steaming instead of browning.
Perfectly Coated: For flavorful Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs, ensure each meatball is evenly coated in the sauce before baking.
Monitor Baking Time: Check your meatballs as they bake to prevent overcooking; they’re done when they reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
Choose Your Cheese: Experiment with different cheeses, like pepper jack for heat or a dairy-free alternative, to match your taste preferences in this delicious recipe!
Upgrade the Toppings: Customize your subs with toppings like jalapeños, slaw, or crispy onion straws for added texture and flavor contrasts.

Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs Recipe FAQs

How do I pick the best ground beef for meatballs?
Absolutely! When selecting ground beef, look for an 80/20 blend of meat to fat, which provides the perfect combination of flavor and moisture. This ratio keeps the meatballs juicy and tender without being overly greasy. If you’re opting for a leaner alternative, ground turkey or chicken also works well, providing a lighter option without sacrificing taste.

How should I store leftover meatball subs?
Very! To keep your Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs fresh, wrap any leftovers tightly in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. This helps maintain their flavor and texture without them becoming soggy.

Can I freeze the meatballs?
Yes, you can! To freeze your meatballs, place them on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until solid (about 1-2 hours), then transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag, separating layers with parchment paper. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw them overnight in the fridge before baking.

What if my meatballs turned out dry?
Don’t fret! If your meatballs are dry, it may be due to overcooking or mixing too much. For future batches, make sure to mix the ingredients gently, and avoid overcooking by checking for doneness with a meat thermometer (aim for an internal temperature of 160°F). Adding a touch more BBQ sauce or serving them with a drizzle of extra sauce can also help!

Can I make these subs gluten-free?
Yes, you can easily tailor them for a gluten-free diet! Simply substitute regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free options and ensure your BBQ sauce is gluten-free as well. Additionally, opt for gluten-free sub rolls to enjoy these delicious meatball subs without worry.

What kind of cheese works best?
For sure! While shredded cheddar is a classic choice, feel free to explore different flavors! Monterey Jack adds creamy deliciousness, while pepper jack will give it a spicy kick. If you’re looking for dairy-free options, there are excellent plant-based cheeses that melt nicely too!