Name: Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs Ready in 30 Minutes
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 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; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 cup bourbon BBQ sauce; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 4 sub rolls; 8 slices crispy bacon

If you’re looking for a delicious and easy-to-make dish that will impress your guests, look no further than these Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs. Packed with flavor and ready in just 30 minutes, these subs are perfect for any occasion. This recipe has become a favorite in my kitchen, and I’m confident it will become a staple in yours too.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

The combination of bourbon BBQ sauce, crispy bacon, and melted cheddar cheese creates a mouthwatering flavor explosion.
With a quick prep time of just 30 minutes, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute get-togethers.
These meatball subs are great for meal prep and can be easily reheated for a delicious leftover meal.

Ingredient Notes:

Ground beef: The lean-to-fat ratio will determine the juiciness of the meatballs.
Breadcrumbs: Used as a binder to hold the meatballs together.
Egg: Helps bind the ingredients together.
Garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper: Add flavor to the meatballs.
Olive oil: Used for cooking the meatballs.
Bourbon BBQ sauce: Adds a sweet and smoky flavor to the dish.
Shredded cheddar cheese: Melts beautifully over the meatballs.
Sub rolls: Perfect for creating a delicious sandwich.
Crispy bacon: Adds a crunchy texture and savory flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

In a bowl, mix together the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
Shape the mixture into meatballs and brown them in a skillet with olive oil.
Pour bourbon BBQ sauce over the meatballs and simmer until cooked through.
Top each meatball with shredded cheddar cheese and let it melt.
Toast the sub rolls, then assemble the meatballs, bacon, and extra BBQ sauce on the rolls.
Serve hot and enjoy!

Helpful Tips:

For a leaner option, use ground turkey instead of beef.
Store any leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Swap out the cheddar cheese for your favorite cheese for a different flavor profile.

Expert Tips for the Best Results:

Don’t overmix the meatball mixture to ensure a tender texture.
Use a meat thermometer to ensure the meatballs are cooked through before adding the BBQ sauce.
Toasting the sub rolls adds a delicious crunch to the sandwich.

Serving Suggestions:

Pair these Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs with a side of sweet potato fries and a cold beer for a satisfying meal.

Storage and Reheating Tips:

To store leftovers, place the meatballs and rolls separately in airtight containers in the fridge. Reheat the meatballs in the microwave or oven until heated through, then assemble the subs with fresh rolls.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I make the meatballs ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the meatballs in advance and store them in the fridge until ready to cook.
Can I freeze the meatballs? Yes, you can freeze the cooked meatballs for up to 3 months.
Can I use store-bought BBQ sauce? Absolutely, feel free to use your favorite brand of BBQ sauce for this recipe.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian? You can substitute the ground beef with plant-based meat for a vegetarian version of this dish.

Conclusion:

These Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs are sure to become a new favorite in your recipe rotation. Quick, flavorful, and perfect for any occasion, this dish is a crowd-pleaser that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Try it out and let us know how you like it!