Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs: A Flavor Explosion in Every Bite! 🍔🥓🔥
1. Introduction
Indulge in the mouth-watering flavors of our Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs! These delightful subs are the perfect combination of juicy meatballs, smoky bacon, and rich barbecue sauce, all nestled in fluffy sub rolls. This recipe delivers the essence of a classic cheeseburger but in a fun, hand-held format. Quick, easy, and absolutely delicious, this recipe is designed for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. Ready in just 30 minutes, these subs will have your taste buds dancing and your family asking for seconds! Get ready to explore how to make these scrumptious meatball subs that will undoubtedly become a family favorite. Learn more about our recipes and find something new to cook tonight!

2. Ingredients
To create these amazing Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs, gather the following ingredients. The key to outstanding meatball subs lies in high-quality ingredients, ensuring each bite is packed with flavor:
- 1 lb ground beef: Opt for 80/20 blend for optimal juiciness in your cheeseburger meatball subs
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs: Use plain breadcrumbs; Italian seasoned could alter the intended taste. Alternatively, panko breadcrumbs contribute additional crumbliness.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated always delivers the best flavor.
- 1 large egg: Acts as a binder, keeping the meatballs structurally sound.
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce: Adds a savory depth crucial for that cheeseburger flavor in the meatball sub.
- 1 tsp garlic powder: Enhances the savory profile.
- 1 tsp onion powder: Complements the garlic powder adding complex flavors.
- 1 tsp salt: Enhances the overall flavors
- 1/2 tsp black pepper: Freshly ground contributes the most robust flavor.
- 1 cup bourbon BBQ sauce: The star of the show! A good quality sauce makes these Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs truly shine. Adjust quantity to taste.
- 4 sub rolls: Choose fresh, soft sub rolls. Toasted rolls add great texture! For a healthier twist, explore whole wheat options.
- 8 slices cooked bacon, chopped: Because everything is better with bacon! Use your favorite method to cook the bacon until crispy.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Sharp cheddar offers an excellent flavor contrast, but feel free to use your cheese of your choice.
3. Instructions
Step 1: Make the Meatballs
In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, egg, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are combined evenly. Be careful not to overmix to keep meatballs tender. For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a dash of smoked paprika to the meatball mixture. Why not try our Korean Ground Beef Bowl recipe?

Step 2: Cook the Meatballs
Heat a skillet over medium heat, and add the meatballs to the pan. Cook them for about 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally until they are browned on all sides and cooked through. Pour in the bourbon BBQ sauce and let it simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes, coating the meatballs in delicious sauce. Simmering in the bourbon BBQ sauce is what distinguishes these delicious meatball subs. Love BBQ? check out this Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs post on facebook.

Step 3: Prepare the Sub Rolls
While the meatballs are cooking, slice the sub rolls in half lengthwise. If desired, you can toast the inside of the rolls lightly on a skillet or in the oven to enhance their texture. Toasting the rolls prevents them from getting soggy from the sauce and juices. Consider brushing with garlic butter for extra flavor! For another great bread recipe check this copycat subway italian herb cheese bread recipe

Step 4: Assemble the Subs
Now it’s time to assemble your Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs! Layer the meatballs into each sub roll, drizzle extra barbecue sauce on top, and sprinkle the chopped bacon and shredded cheddar cheese. Place the subs under the broiler for a few minutes until the cheese melts and is bubbly. Keep a close eye while broiling to prevent burning. These meatball subs are best served immediately, while the cheese is melty and the bacon is crispy. If you liked assembling this recipe then you should try our Philly Cheesesteak Tortellini Pasta, it is as fun as it is delicious.

4. Storage Tips
Store leftover Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to save the meatballs separately, you can freeze them for up to a month. Just reheat them in the oven or microwave before assembling your subs again. When reheating, consider adding a splash of water to prevent drying out. To maintain the bacon’s crispness, store it separately and add it just before serving. Want to cook a new meal? Check our dinner recipes!
5. Serving Suggestions
These Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs are perfect to serve at casual get-togethers, family dinners, or game day celebrations. Pair them with crispy French fries, a fresh salad, or some homemade coleslaw for a complete meal experience. Don’t forget to have extra BBQ sauce on hand for dipping! Consider adding onion rings, pickles, or a side of mac and cheese. For mac and cheese you may want to try this The Best Homemade Mac and Cheese Recipe.
6. FAQs
How can I make these meatballs healthier?
You can use lean ground turkey or chicken instead of beef, and replace the breadcrumbs with oats to make this recipe healthier. Also, consider using reduced-sugar BBQ sauce or making your own.
Can I prepare the meatballs ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the meatballs a day in advance and refrigerate them until you are ready to cook. This allows for even better flavor fusion. This is a perfect way to save time on a busy weeknight.
What type of BBQ sauce works best for Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs?
A bourbon BBQ sauce adds a unique flavor to the dish, but feel free to use any BBQ sauce you like, whether sweet, spicy, or smoky. Experiment to find your favorite flavor combination! If you love chicken then check this Smothered Chicken and Rice recipe!
7. Conclusion
Delighting your palate with bold flavors, these Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs are a must-try for any burger lover! Quick to prepare and incredibly satisfying, they’re the perfect dish for any occasion. Whether it’s a quick weeknight meal or a weekend gathering, these hearty subs are sure to be a hit. Follow the steps outlined above, and indulge in a delightful explosion of tastes. Enjoy your culinary adventure!
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Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs Ready in 30 Minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Gluten-Free Options Available
Description
Indulge in the mouth-watering flavors of Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs! These delightful subs are a combination of juicy meatballs, smoky bacon, and rich barbecue sauce, all nestled in fluffy sub rolls. Ready in just 30 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 cup bourbon BBQ sauce
- 4 sub rolls
- 8 slices cooked bacon, chopped
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, egg, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are combined evenly.
- Heat a skillet over medium heat, and add the meatballs to the pan. Cook them for about 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally until browned on all sides. Pour in the bourbon BBQ sauce and let it simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes.
- While the meatballs are cooking, slice the sub rolls in half lengthwise, and toast them if desired.
- Layer the meatballs into each sub roll, drizzle extra BBQ sauce, and sprinkle chopped bacon and shredded cheddar cheese. Place the subs under the broiler for a few minutes until the cheese melts and is bubbly.
Notes
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freeze meatballs separately for up to a month, reheating before assembling subs.
- Serve with crispy French fries, salad, or homemade coleslaw for a complete meal.
- Use lean ground turkey or chicken and oats for a healthier version.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking, Skillet Cooking
- Cuisine: American