Bourbon BBQ Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs Ready in 30 Minutes

These Bourbon BBQ Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs Ready in 30 Minutes are a true crowd-pleaser. Perfect for game days, family dinners, or casual gatherings, this recipe combines the delightful flavors of juicy meatballs simmered in a sweet-smoky BBQ sauce. Each sub is filled with melty cheese and crispy turkey bacon, making them an irresistible choice for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Simple: This recipe comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavor-Packed: The combination of bourbon BBQ sauce and perfectly seasoned meatballs creates a mouthwatering taste experience.
• Customizable: Feel free to adjust the toppings or spice levels to suit your preferences or dietary needs.
• Comfort Food Delight: These subs are hearty and satisfying, ideal for a cozy night in or entertaining guests.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love digging into these delicious handheld meals.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience easier, gather the following tools before you start.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large bowl
• Skillet
• Baking sheet
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Mixing spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Large bowl: A spacious bowl allows you to mix ingredients thoroughly without spilling.
• Skillet: A good skillet ensures even cooking and browning of your meatballs for maximum flavor.
• Baking sheet: Perfect for toasting sub rolls evenly in the oven for that golden-brown finish.

Ingredients

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 Assembling

• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 4 sub rolls
• 8 slices crispy Turkey Bacon

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

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s hot enough to toast your sub rolls perfectly.

Step 2: Prepare the Meatball Mixture

In a large bowl, combine:
– Ground beef
– Breadcrumbs
– Egg
– Garlic powder
– Onion powder
– Smoked paprika
– Salt
– Black pepper

Mix gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix as this can make the meatballs tough.

Step 3: Form the Meatballs

Shape the mixture into meatballs about 1.5 inches in diameter. You should end up with approximately 16-20 meatballs.

Step 4: Brown the Meatballs

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs in a single layer, browning them on all sides for about 5-7 minutes. They don’t need to be fully cooked at this stage.

Step 5: Simmer with BBQ Sauce

Once browned, return all meatballs to the skillet. Pour the bourbon BBQ sauce over them, reduce heat to low, and let simmer for 10 minutes while stirring gently from time to time.

Step 6: Toast the Sub Rolls

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

Step 7: Assemble Your Subs

Place 4-5 meatballs inside each toasted roll, spooning extra sauce over them. Top each sub with shredded cheddar cheese and crispy turkey bacon slices.

Step 8: Melt the Cheese

For extra-melty cheese goodness, return the assembled subs to the oven for an additional 2-3 minutes until fully melted.

Step 9: Serve

Serve immediately with additional bourbon BBQ sauce on the side for dipping. Enjoy your delicious Bourbon BBQ Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs!

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

These delicious Bourbon BBQ Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs are perfect for a cozy dinner or a fun gathering. Serve them up with some tasty sides and garnishes for the ultimate experience.

Classic Side Sauces

• Extra BBQ Sauce: Offer additional bourbon BBQ sauce on the side for dipping, enhancing the flavor in every bite.
• Hot Sauce: Add a kick with your favorite hot sauce, giving diners the option to spice things up.

Fresh Salads

• Coleslaw: A creamy coleslaw provides a crunchy contrast to the warm meatball subs, balancing out the flavors beautifully.
• Caesar Salad: This classic salad adds a crisp and refreshing touch, complementing the richness of the subs.

Crunchy Snacks

• Potato Chips: Serve crispy potato chips on the side for a satisfying crunch that pairs well with the soft meatballs.
• Veggie Platter: Include fresh veggies like carrot sticks and celery with a dip for a lighter option.

Garnishes

• Pickles: Offer dill pickles as a tangy garnish; their acidity cuts through the richness of the cheese and meatballs.
• Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle fresh parsley or cilantro over the top for added freshness and color.

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

Perfecting these meatball subs is all about enhancing flavors and ensuring they come out just right. Here are some tips to elevate your dish.

• Bold Seasonings: Use fresh herbs like parsley or chives to enhance flavor and freshness in your meat mixture.
• Proper Browning: Ensure you brown the meatballs well before simmering; this adds depth of flavor through caramelization.
• Quality Cheese: Opt for high-quality cheddar cheese for better melting and richer taste, making each bite extra indulgent.
• Toasted Rolls: Always toast your sub rolls until golden brown. This adds texture and prevents them from becoming soggy when filled.
• Double Sauce Option: If you love sauce, make extra bourbon BBQ sauce so you can drizzle more on top before serving.
• Experiment with Breads: Try different types of rolls—like hoagie or ciabatta—for varied textures and flavors in your subs.

Best Side Dishes for Bourbon BBQ Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs Ready in 30 Minutes

Pairing side dishes with your Bourbon BBQ Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs can enhance your meal experience. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy sweet potato fries add a delightful sweetness that complements the savory meatballs beautifully.
2. Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn on the cob makes for a classic summer side that’s easy to prepare.
3. Baked Beans: A hearty serving of baked beans brings in rich flavors that go hand-in-hand with barbecue-style meals.
4. Macaroni Salad: A creamy macaroni salad offers coolness and comfort, balancing out the warmth of the subs perfectly.
5. Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal grilled vegetables provide vibrant colors and nutrients, making them an excellent healthy side.
6. Fries with Garlic Aioli: Crispy fries served with garlic aioli elevate this comfort food experience even further by adding gourmet flair.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Bourbon BBQ Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs can be simple, but there are common pitfalls that can affect the outcome. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Incorrect Meat Ratio: Using leaner meat can result in dry meatballs. Stick with an 80/20 lean-to-fat ratio for juiciness.
• Overmixing the Ingredients: Mixing too much can lead to tough meatballs. Combine just until everything is incorporated for a tender texture.
• Skipping the Browning Step: Not browning the meatballs first can rob them of flavor. Always brown them before simmering in sauce for a richer taste.
• Ignoring Sub Roll Quality: Using stale rolls can make your subs less enjoyable. Opt for fresh, crusty sub rolls for the best texture and flavor.
• Not Toasting Rolls: Failing to toast the rolls means missing out on added crunch. Toast them lightly to enhance your subs’ overall experience.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Bourbon BBQ Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs in an airtight container.
• They will last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Bourbon BBQ Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs Ready in 30 Minutes

• Wrap individual subs tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating Bourbon BBQ Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs Ready in 30 Minutes

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place subs on a baking sheet and cover with foil; heat for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently until warm throughout.
• Stovetop: Heat meatballs in a skillet over low heat, adding extra sauce if needed. Serve once heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Bourbon BBQ Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs Ready in 30 Minutes.

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

You can absolutely use ground turkey. It offers a lighter option without compromising flavor.

What can I substitute for BBQ sauce?

If you don’t have BBQ sauce, try using a mix of ketchup and mustard with spices like paprika and garlic powder for a customized flavor.

How do I make these Bourbon BBQ Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs gluten-free?

To make them gluten-free, use gluten-free breadcrumbs and check that your BBQ sauce is also gluten-free.

Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare and cook the meatballs ahead of time, then store them in the fridge or freezer until you’re ready to assemble your subs.

Final Thoughts

These Bourbon BBQ Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs Ready in 30 Minutes are not only delicious but also versatile! You can customize them with different cheeses or toppings to suit your taste. Whether it’s game day or a casual weeknight dinner, this recipe is sure to impress everyone at your table.