The sizzle of bacon crisping in the pan was music to my ears, hinting at the delicious creation about to unfold. Allow me to introduce you to my irresistible Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs—a hearty comfort food that turns classic American flavors into a handheld sensation. These subs offer a delightful fusion of juicy meatballs slathered in a smoky, bourbon-infused BBQ sauce, paired with crispy bacon and gooey melted cheese. Perfect for game day excitement or a cozy family dinner, this recipe promises a filling meal that satisfies even the pickiest eaters. Plus, if you want to switch things up, there are easy variations using ground turkey or chicken for a lighter twist. Are you ready to dive into the flavor-packed world of these meatball subs? Let’s get cooking! Why will you crave this recipe? Hearty Comfort: Each bite of these Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs offers comforting warmth and satisfaction, perfect for gatherings or cozy nights in. Flavor Explosion: The bourbon-infused BBQ sauce, combined with crispy bacon, elevates each meatball into a flavor-packed delight that ignites your taste buds. Versatile Options: Feel free to substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter meal, ensuring everyone can enjoy this tasty treat. Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: These subs are a guaranteed hit for game day or family dinner, appealing to all ages and preferences. Quick and Easy: Whip these up in under an hour—because who doesn’t love a delicious meal that doesn’t take all day? For more comfort food ideas, check out One Pot Cheeseburger or Chicken Piccata Meatballs. Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs Ingredients • Dive into the deliciousness with these key components! 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. For the 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. Salt and Pepper (to taste) – Enhances overall flavor. Adjust seasoning based on personal taste. Now you’re all set to create the flavor-packed Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs that will surely wow your guests! 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 crucial step ensures that your Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs bake evenly and develop a delicious, bubbly topping. While your oven warms up, gather all your ingredients so you’re ready to create this mouthwatering dish. Step 2: Mix the Meatball Ingredients In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, egg, chopped onion, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Use your hands to gently mix until fully combined, being careful not to overwork the mixture to keep the meatballs tender. This flavorful blend forms the base for your savory meatballs! Step 3: Shape the Meatballs With your mixture ready, shape it into 1-inch meatballs, aiming for about 18 to 20 meatballs total. The size ensures they’ll cook through properly while still being hearty enough to fill your subs. Place the formed meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, making cleanup easy. Step 4: Brown the Meatballs Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, carefully add the meatballs to the pan, browning them on all sides for about 5–7 minutes. Watch for a golden crust to form, which enhances the flavor and adds depth to your Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs. Step 5: Prepare the BBQ Sauce Once the meatballs are browned, remove them from the skillet and set them aside. Deglaze the skillet by pouring in the bourbon, scraping up any tasty brown bits. Add the BBQ sauce and let it simmer for a few minutes until slightly thickened. This creates a rich, smoky sauce that will coat your meatballs beautifully. Step 6: Coat the Meatballs Toss the browned meatballs in the warm BBQ sauce, ensuring they are generously coated. This step infuses each meatball with the bourbon BBQ flavor, making them irresistible. After thoroughly coating the meatballs, transfer them to an oven-safe dish, placing them snugly together for baking. Step 7: Bake the Meatballs Place the dish of coated meatballs into the preheated oven and bake for 10–12 minutes, or until they are cooked through and reach an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C). You’ll know they’re done when they’re firm to the touch and the BBQ sauce is bubbling around the edges. Step 8: Assemble the Subs While your meatballs are baking, slice your sub rolls open lengthwise, creating a generous pocket for the succulent filling. Once the meatballs are ready, carefully fill each sub with a few meatballs, spooning extra BBQ sauce over the top for maximum flavor. Step 9: Add Bacon and Cheese Top each stuffed sub with a generous amount of crumbled bacon and a sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese. This step adds irresistible crunch and cheesy goodness to your Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs, enhancing both texture and taste. Step 10: Melt the Cheese Return the assembled subs to the oven for an additional 3–5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Keep an eye on them to ensure the rolls don’t become overly toasted. The melty cheese will create a delightful finish to your hearty subs. Step 11: Add Fresh Toppings Once out of the oven, feel free to customize your subs with fresh toppings like lettuce, pickles, or sliced tomatoes for extra crunch and freshness. This adds a nice contrast to the rich flavors of your Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs. Step 12: Serve Warm Serve your delicious Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs warm, allowing your family or guests to enjoy every bite of this comforting, flavor-packed creation. These subs are perfect for gatherings or cozy family dinners, making each bite a celebration of taste. Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs Variations Feel free to explore delightful twists on this mouthwatering recipe and make it your own! Healthier Option: Replace ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner version without sacrificing flavor. This swap not only lightens the dish but also makes it more accessible for those who prefer poultry. Spicy Kick: Use pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar for a creamy, spicy surprise in every bite. You can even add a dash of hot sauce or jalapeños for those who crave extra heat! Zesty Additions: Top the subs with homemade coleslaw for added crunch and a tangy contrast to the rich flavors. The brightness of the slaw awakens each bite, making it a charming twist. Vegetarian Delight: For a meat-free version, substitute meatballs with plant-based options or chickpea patties, creating a wholesome and satisfying meal that everyone can enjoy. Cheeseburger Lovers: Add your favorite cheeseburger toppings like dill pickles and onions for an even more authentic cheeseburger experience. A touch of mustard or ketchup could also be drizzled inside the rolls for extra sauciness. BBQ Sauce Variations: Experiment with different BBQ sauces—try a honey chipotle sauce for a sweet and smoky flavor or a mustard-based BBQ sauce for a vibrant twist! Bread Alternatives: Switch up the sub rolls with whole-grain or gluten-free options. This not only alters the texture but can also cater to various dietary needs, making your meal approachable for all. If you’re eager for more ideas, take a peek at the effortless ways to elevate your nights in with One Pot Cheeseburger or savor the delightful flavors of Chicken Piccata Meatballs. Enjoy your culinary adventure! What to Serve with Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs When it comes to creating a festive meal, delicious side dishes can elevate your Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs to the next level. Creamy Coleslaw: A refreshing, tangy coleslaw adds a bright crunch that perfectly complements the richness of the subs. Crispy French Fries: Hot, golden fries are the classic companion, offering a satisfying crunch. Dip them in extra BBQ sauce for an indulgent treat! Garlic Bread: The buttery, garlicky flavors of warm garlic bread provide a delightful contrast to the savory meatballs, making each bite more enjoyable. Fresh Garden Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and cucumbers creates balance, adding fresh, crisp textures to your hearty meal. Potato Wedges: Seasoned, crispy potato wedges bring comfort to the table, soaking up the bourbon BBQ sauce’s rich flavors. Beer or Iced Tea: Pair with a cold craft beer or sweet iced tea for a refreshing drink that complements the BBQ flavors wonderfully, enhancing your dining experience. Make Ahead Options These Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy rich flavors with minimal effort on busy weeknights! You can prepare the meatballs and sauce up to 24 hours in advance. Simply shape the meatballs and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The BBQ sauce can also be made ahead and stored separately to maintain the meatballs’ moisture and flavor. When you’re ready to serve, just heat the meatballs in the BBQ sauce and bake for 10-12 minutes until heated through. This way, you’ll have delicious, homemade subs ready to impress without the rush! Expert Tips for Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs Don’t Overmix: Mixing too much can lead to tough meatballs. Gently combine ingredients until just blended for a tender result. Brown in Batches: If you have too many meatballs for your skillet, brown them in batches. This helps maintain consistent heat and prevents steaming. Use a Slotted Spoon: When transferring meatballs to the subs, use a slotted spoon to avoid excess sauce that could make the bread soggy. Adjust for Variations: If using ground turkey or chicken, ensure you monitor cooking times closely, as leaner meats may cook faster. Customize Toppings: Feel free to switch up toppings like adding jalapeños for heat or coleslaw for crunch, enhancing your Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs experience. How to Store and Freeze Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs Fridge: Store any leftover Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs in an airtight container for up to 2 days. This keeps the subs fresh and ready for a quick reheating. Freezer: For long-term storage, freeze unbaked meatballs in a sealed freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw them overnight in the fridge before cooking. Reheating: To enjoy leftovers, reheat the subs in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10–15 minutes until warmed through. Cover with foil to keep the bread from getting too crispy. Wrapping: If storing assembled subs, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap to prevent the bread from drying out while in the fridge or freezer. Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs Recipe FAQs What type of ground meat should I use? You can use ground beef for a classic flavor, but if you prefer a lighter option, ground turkey or chicken works beautifully as well. Just be sure to watch the cooking time as leaner meats may cook faster. How do I store leftovers? Store any leftover Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. This keeps them fresh and makes for a quick reheating option for those busy weekdays! Can I freeze meatballs? Absolutely! To freeze unbaked meatballs, place them on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a sealed freezer bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months. When ready to cook, thaw them overnight in the fridge before baking as per the recipe instructions. What if my meatballs turn out dense? To avoid dense meatballs, be careful not to overmix when combining the ingredients. Gentle handling ensures a tender texture that’s perfect for your Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs. Can I make this recipe gluten-free? Yes! Simply use gluten-free breadcrumbs for the meatballs and opt for gluten-free sub rolls. This way, you can enjoy the full flavor of these delicious meatball subs without gluten. What toppings can I add? Customize your Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs with a variety of toppings! Fresh lettuce, tomatoes, or pickles are great choices to add crunch and freshness. You can also experiment with jalapeños for a spicy kick or even slaw for extra texture! Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs That Wow Irresistible Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs that combine juicy meatballs, smoky BBQ sauce, crispy bacon, and melted cheese for a delightful handheld comfort food. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 20 minutes minsCook Time 30 minutes minsTotal Time 50 minutes mins Servings: 4 subsCourse: DinnerCuisine: AmericanCalories: 600 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Meatballs1 lb Ground Beef Optionally substitute with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.1/2 cup Breadcrumbs Use gluten-free breadcrumbs for a gluten-free option.1/4 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese Can be replaced with nutritional yeast for a dairy-free variant.1 Egg Adjust cooking time if using egg substitutes.1/4 cup Chopped Onion Green onions or shallots can be substituted for a different flavor.2 cloves Minced Garlic Garlic powder may be used as a substitute.For the Sauce1/4 cup Bourbon Can replace with other whiskey, apple cider, or vegetable broth for non-alcoholic options.1/2 cup BBQ Sauce Use homemade or low-sugar BBQ for healthier alternatives.For Assembly6 strips Cooked Crumbled Bacon For a vegetarian option, consider crispy onion straws or plant-based bacon.1/2 cup Shredded Cheddar Cheese Try Monterey Jack or a dairy-free cheese alternative.4 rolls Sub Rolls Whole grain or gluten-free rolls can be utilized.1 tbsp Olive Oil Any neutral oil works for sautéing.Salt and Pepper Adjust seasoning based on personal taste. Equipment Baking SheetSkilletMixing bowl Method InstructionsPreheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Gather all ingredients.In a mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, egg, onion, garlic, salt, and pepper until fully combined.Shape mixture into 1-inch meatballs, about 18 to 20 total.Brown the meatballs in a skillet with olive oil for 5–7 minutes until golden.Deglaze skillet with bourbon, then add BBQ sauce and let simmer until thickened.Coat the browned meatballs in the BBQ sauce and place them in an oven-safe dish.Bake meatballs in the oven for 10–12 minutes until cooked through.Slice sub rolls open lengthwise and fill each with meatballs and BBQ sauce.Top with crumbled bacon and cheddar cheese.Return to oven for 3–5 minutes until cheese is melted.Add fresh toppings as desired and serve warm. Nutrition Serving: 1subCalories: 600kcalCarbohydrates: 32gProtein: 36gFat: 34gSaturated Fat: 12gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 15gTrans Fat: 1gCholesterol: 90mgSodium: 1200mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 2gSugar: 10gVitamin A: 600IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 250mgIron: 4mg NotesStore leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Unbaked meatballs can be frozen for up to 3 months. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
