Bourbon BBQ Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs Ready in 30 Minutes

These Sizzling Bourbon BBQ Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs Ready in 30 Minutes are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a game day feast. Combining the classic flavors of a cheeseburger and meatballs, these subs are not only delicious but also incredibly easy to prepare. You’ll love how juicy and flavorful the meatballs get when simmered in sweet-smoky BBQ sauce, making each bite an explosion of taste!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: Ready in just 30 minutes, these subs are ideal for busy nights.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of bourbon BBQ sauce and spices gives a smoky sweetness that elevates each bite.
• Versatile Meal: Perfect for lunch, dinner, or even parties; they can be served with sides or enjoyed on their own.
• Family-Friendly: These meatball subs are a hit with both kids and adults, making mealtime enjoyable for everyone.
• Customizable: Adjust toppings to your liking—add more cheese or any vegetables you prefer!

Tools and Preparation

To create these delicious Bourbon BBQ Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs, having the right tools is essential. Below are the necessary items you’ll need in your kitchen.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• Skillet
• Baking sheet
• Oven

Importance of Each Tool

• Large mixing bowl: Ideal for combining ingredients without spills, ensuring an even mixture.
• Skillet: Perfect for browning meatballs evenly and simmering them in sauce.
• Baking sheet: Great for toasting sub rolls; it distributes heat evenly for golden perfection.
• Oven: Essential for finishing off the subs with melted cheese, enhancing flavor and texture.

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). This ensures that your sub rolls will toast perfectly while you prepare the meatballs.

Step 2: Prepare the Meatball Mixture

In a large bowl, combine:
1. Ground beef
2. Breadcrumbs
3. Egg
4. Garlic powder
5. Onion powder
6. Smoked paprika
7. Salt
8. Black pepper

Mix gently until just combined; do not overmix to keep the meatballs tender.

Step 3: Form and Cook Meatballs

1. Shape the mixture into meatballs about 1.5 inches in diameter (approximately 16-20 meatballs).
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
3. Add meatballs in a single layer (work in batches if necessary).
4. Brown meatballs on all sides for about 5-7 minutes—they don’t need to be fully cooked through yet.

Step 4: Simmer in BBQ Sauce

Once browned:
1. Return all meatballs to the skillet.
2. Pour bourbon BBQ sauce over them.
3. Reduce heat to low and simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring gently.

Step 5: Toast Sub Rolls

While meatballs simmer:
1. Slice sub rolls lengthwise without cutting all the way through.
2. Place them on a baking sheet and toast in the preheated oven for about 5 minutes until golden brown.

Step 6: Assemble the Subs

For each toasted roll:
1. Place 4-5 meatballs inside.
2. Spoon extra BBQ sauce over them.
3. Top with ¼ cup shredded cheddar cheese and break up two slices of crispy Turkey Bacon on top.

Step 7: Melt Cheese (Optional)

For extra melty cheese:
Return assembled subs to the oven for an additional 2-3 minutes until cheese is fully melted.

Step 8: Serve!

Serve immediately with additional bourbon BBQ sauce on the side for dipping! Enjoy your Bourbon BBQ Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs ready in just 30 minutes!

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

These Bourbon BBQ Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs are a delightful meal that can be served in various ways. Elevating your dining experience can enhance the enjoyment of this delicious dish.

Enjoy with Extra BBQ Sauce

• Add a small bowl of bourbon BBQ sauce on the side for dipping. This enhances the flavor and allows everyone to customize their meal.

Pair with Fresh Vegetables

• Serve with a platter of fresh veggies like carrot sticks, celery, and bell pepper slices. They offer a crunchy contrast to the subs and add a healthy touch.

Complement with Pickles

• Include a side of dill pickles or pickled jalapeños for an added tangy kick. The acidity balances the richness of the subs perfectly.

Add Some Crunchy Chips

• Serve with your favorite potato chips or tortilla chips. The crunchiness complements the meatball subs and makes for a fun texture combination.

Offer Refreshing Beverages

• Pair these subs with iced tea or lemonade. A refreshing drink can cleanse the palate and enhance the overall meal experience.

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

Perfecting these meatball subs involves attention to detail. Here are some helpful tips to elevate your cooking game.

• Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh herbs and spices will enhance flavors more than dried ones.
• Don’t Overmix – Mixing too much can lead to tough meatballs; gently combine ingredients just until mixed.
• Monitor Browning – Ensure meatballs are browned evenly; this adds flavor from the Maillard reaction.
• Customize Toppings – Feel free to add toppings like jalapeños, avocado, or different cheeses for personal flair.
• Adjust Sauce Consistency – If your BBQ sauce is too thick, add a splash of broth or water for smoother application.
• Rest Before Serving – Allow meatballs to rest for a few minutes after cooking; this helps retain juices when serving.

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

Pairing sides with these meatball subs can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options:

1. Coleslaw – A creamy coleslaw provides crunch and creaminess that contrasts well with the savory subs.
2. Potato Salad – A classic side dish that is both filling and refreshing, perfect for summer gatherings.
3. Sweet Potato Fries – Baked sweet potato fries offer a sweet counterpart to the smoky flavors of the subs.
4. Corn on the Cob – Grilled or boiled corn on the cob adds sweetness and is easy to prepare alongside the main dish.
5. Garlic Bread – A side of garlic bread complements the flavors of BBQ while adding an extra layer of deliciousness.
6. Baked Beans – Their sweetness pairs beautifully with smoky flavors, making them an ideal companion for meatball subs.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Bourbon BBQ Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs, it’s easy to overlook a few key steps. Here are some common mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Skipping the seasoning: Not adding enough spices can lead to bland meatballs. Always season your mixture well for enhanced flavor.
• Overmixing the meat: Mixing too much can result in tough meatballs. Combine ingredients gently until just mixed for tender results.
• Not browning properly: Skipping the browning step can affect the final taste. Take time to brown all sides of the meatballs for added depth of flavor.
• Using stale breadcrumbs: Old breadcrumbs can alter texture and taste. Ensure your breadcrumbs are fresh for optimal moisture retention.
• Forgetting to toast rolls: Un-toasted rolls can become soggy. Toast your sub rolls for a crispy bite that complements the meatballs well.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

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

• Wrap each sub tightly in plastic wrap or foil.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.

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

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat wrapped subs for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate, cover, and heat for 1-2 minutes, checking occasionally.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, flipping once until warmed thoroughly.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Bourbon BBQ Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs unique?

These subs combine classic burger flavors with juicy turkey meatballs and a sweet-smoky sauce, creating a delicious twist on traditional sandwiches.

How long does it take to make Bourbon BBQ Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs Ready in 30 Minutes?

This recipe is designed for quick preparation, taking only about 30 minutes from start to finish.

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes! Ground turkey can be used as a leaner alternative, keeping the flavors intact while reducing fat content.

What type of cheese works best with these subs?

Shredded cheddar cheese pairs beautifully, but you can also try Monterey Jack or pepper jack for an extra kick!

How do I customize my Bourbon BBQ Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs?

Feel free to add ingredients like pickles, jalapeños, or different types of sauces to create your own signature version!

Final Thoughts

Bourbon BBQ Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs are not only quick and easy but also packed with flavor and comfort. This recipe allows plenty of room for customization based on your personal taste preferences. Give it a try today and enjoy this delightful twist on classic comfort food!