Name: Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs to Wow Your Tastebuds
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 85 min
Ingredients: 1 lb Ground Beef (80/20) (Provides great flavor and keeps meatballs juicy); 1 cup Breadcrumbs (Helps maintain the shape of the meatballs; consider crushed crackers for a twist); 1 large Egg (Acts as a binder for the mixture); 1 cup Bourbon BBQ Sauce (Infuses sweetness and depth); 1 cup Sharp Cheddar Cheese (Adds cheeseburger flavor; try smoked cheddar for a twist); 6 slices Thick-Cut Bacon (Provides a satisfying crunch; cook until crispy); 4 rolls Sub Rolls (Italian/French) (Choose crusty on the outside and soft within)

As I stood in my kitchen, the tantalizing aroma of sizzling bacon with a hint of bourbon filled the air, transforming my ordinary evening into a moment of culinary excitement. That’s the magic of these Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs! This delightful recipe marries all the beloved flavors of a classic cheeseburger with the comfort of homemade meatballs, enveloped in a smoky sauce that is simply irresistible. Not only is it a quick meal to whip up—perfect for those busy weeknights or game day gatherings—but it’s also highly adaptable to suit various dietary preferences, making it a crowd-pleaser for everyone at the table. Ready to take your comfort food game to the next level? Let’s dive in and create a masterpiece that will leave everyone asking for seconds!

Why are these meatball subs a must-try?

Irresistible Flavor: The combination of bourbon BBQ sauce and crispy bacon elevates the taste of classic meatball subs to new heights.

Quick and Easy: Perfect for busy weeknights, these subs come together swiftly without sacrificing flavor or satisfaction.

Customizable Options: Whether you prefer a spicy kick or a vegetarian twist, this recipe allows for plenty of adaptations to satisfy everyone’s cravings.

Crowd-Pleaser: Great for gatherings, these Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs are sure to impress guests, just like my Honey BBQ Chicken or Garlic Parmesan Cheeseburger.

Comforting Texture: Expect a delightful mix of tender meatballs, crispy bacon, and gooey cheese, all wrapped in a soft, toasted sub roll.

With each bite, you’ll experience a delightful medley of textures and flavors that will have you coming back for more!

Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs Ingredients

For the Meatballs

Ground Beef (80/20) – Provides great flavor and keeps meatballs juicy; leaner cuts might alter the texture slightly.
Breadcrumbs – Helps maintain the shape of the meatballs; consider using crushed crackers for a twist.
Egg – Acts as a binder for the mixture, ensuring everything stays together perfectly.

For the Sauce

Bourbon BBQ Sauce – Infuses a layer of sweetness and depth; use a prepared sauce that includes bourbon for the best results.

For the Toppings

Sharp Cheddar Cheese – Adds a classic cheeseburger flavor; try smoked cheddar for a unique melting experience.
Thick-Cut Bacon – Provides a satisfying crunch; cook until crispy to enhance texture.

For the Subs

Sub Rolls (Italian/French) – A sturdy foundation for the sandwiches; choose rolls that are crusty on the outside and soft within for the perfect bite.

Now that you have everything ready, it’s time to get cooking these delightful Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs that promise to dazzle your taste buds!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs

Step 1: Prepare the Meatball Mixture
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, and egg along with your favorite seasonings. Mix gently but thoroughly until just incorporated—overmixing can make the meatballs tough. Once mixed, form the mixture into meatballs about 1.5 inches in diameter, ensuring they are uniform for even cooking.

Step 2: Chill the Meatballs
Place the formed meatballs on a baking sheet and cover them with plastic wrap. Chill them in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes; this allows the flavors to meld and helps the meatballs maintain their shape during cooking.

Step 3: Brown the Meatballs
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add a splash of oil. Once hot, carefully place the chilled meatballs in the skillet, making sure not to overcrowd them. Brown the meatballs for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they are golden brown, creating a delicious crust that enhances their flavor.

Step 4: Simmer in Bourbon BBQ Sauce
After browning, pour in the bourbon BBQ sauce and scrape up any browned bits from the skillet. Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let the meatballs simmer in the sauce for 10-15 minutes until they are cooked through and the sauce is thickened, ensuring the meatballs are saucy and flavorful.

Step 5: Toast the Sub Rolls
While the meatballs simmer, turn your attention to the sub rolls. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cut the rolls in half and place them on a baking sheet. Toast them in the oven for about 5 minutes until they are crisp on the outside, which helps prevent sogginess when you assemble the subs.

Step 6: Assemble the Subs
Once the rolls are toasted, remove them from the oven. Place several meatballs inside each sub roll, spooning extra bourbon BBQ sauce over the top. Generously sprinkle the sharp cheddar cheese over the meatballs, allowing it to melt nicely from the heat of the meatballs.

Step 7: Add the Crispy Bacon
Arrange the crispy, cooked bacon strips over the melted cheese atop the meatballs. For added texture and flavor, feel free to layer more BBQ sauce if desired. This delectable addition brings a satisfying crunch and savory depth to your Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
With the subs fully assembled, they’re ready to be served! These Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs are perfect for sharing—pair them with coleslaw or sweet potato fries for a complete meal that everyone will love.

What to Serve with Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs

Transform your meal into a delightful feast with these flavorful side dishes that perfectly complement your Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs.

Creamy Coleslaw: The cool, crisp texture of coleslaw balances the hearty meatball subs while adding a refreshing crunch.
Sweet Potato Fries: These sweet and savory fries offer a delightful contrast to the savory flavors of the subs, making for a satisfying bite.
Garlic Bread: A warm, buttery garlic bread aligns beautifully with the BBQ flavors, perfect for soaking up any extra sauce.
Garden Salad: A light garden salad provides a refreshing touch, with vibrant veggies that brighten up your plate.
Pickle Chips: Tangy pickle chips can add just the right amount of acidity, enhancing the overall flavor profile of the meal.
Beer Pairing: A hoppy IPA or a rich stout can elevate the barbecue notes in the subs, making for a perfect pairing that will please any palate.

Storage Tips for Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs

Room Temperature: Meatball subs are best enjoyed fresh, but if left out, they can be stored at room temperature for up to 2 hours.

Fridge: Store leftover Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.

Freezer: You can freeze the meatballs individually for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. Assemble into subs just prior to serving for the best texture.

Reheating: To reheat, place assembled subs in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10–15 minutes, or microwave until heated through. For even better flavor, add a splash of bourbon BBQ sauce before reheating.

Expert Tips for Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs

Gentle Mixing: Avoid overmixing the meatball mixture to keep them tender. Just mix until combined for the best texture in your Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs.
Pre-Chill Meats: Chilling the meatballs before cooking helps them hold their shape better. Try to resist the urge to skip this step!
Perfect Browning: Use a hot skillet for browning meatballs to achieve a beautifully caramelized exterior. This adds wonderful depth of flavor to the subs.
Deglazing Fun: After browning, deglaze the pan with a splash of bourbon before adding the BBQ sauce. It enhances the overall taste of your sauce immensely.
Toasting Rolls: Toast sub rolls just before serving to prevent sogginess. Crispy outside and soft inside provides the ultimate bite in your delicious Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs.

Make Ahead Options

These Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the meatball mixture and form the meatballs up to 24 hours in advance; just cover and refrigerate them to keep them fresh. If you want to prep even further, the cooked meatballs can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months. To maintain quality, ensure they are cooled before refrigerating or freezing, and consider re-warming them in the bourbon BBQ sauce for extra flavor before serving. When ready to enjoy, just assemble the subs with toasted rolls and melted cheese for a quick and satisfying meal!

Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs Variations

Get creative and personalize your Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs for a delightful twist that excites your taste buds!

Spicy Kick: Add cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños to the meatball mixture for a fiery flavor boost. This heat pairs beautifully with the smoky BBQ sauce, making each bite an adventure!
Mushroom Swiss: For a comforting twist, substitute Swiss cheese and toss in sautéed mushrooms. The earthiness of mushrooms complements the bourbon sauce, creating a delightful blend you’ll crave.
Hawaiian Delight: Incorporate chopped pineapple into the meatball mixture for a sweet touch. Grill pineapple slices as a topping for a refreshing, tropical flair that brightens up the dish.
BBQ Meatball Sliders: Transform your subs into sliders using mini sub rolls or slider buns. These bite-sized delights are perfect for game day snacking or entertaining!
Vegetarian Version: Swap for plant-based ground beef and ensure the BBQ sauce is vegetarian-friendly. Enjoy all the nostalgic flavors while keeping it meatless—who said comfort food can’t be veggie?
Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and check your BBQ sauce for hidden gluten. You’re still in for a delicious experience, just catered to your dietary needs!
Herbaceous Flavor: Mix in fresh herbs like parsley or basil to the meatball mixture. This adds a bright, fresh flavor and a colorful twist that enhances the overall taste and presentation.

For a perfect side, consider pairing these with coleslaw or sweet potato fries alongside a delicious main like Tomato Bacon Pasta for a wholesome meal that everyone will adore!

Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs Recipe FAQs

What type of ground beef is best for meatballs?
Absolutely! For this recipe, I recommend using ground beef that is 80/20 (meaning 80% lean and 20% fat). This fat content ensures your meatballs are juicy and flavorful. If you prefer a leaner option, you can use 85/15, but it may alter the texture slightly, making them a bit drier.

How should I store leftover meatball subs?
Very! To store your leftover Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs, place them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, you can reheat them in the microwave or place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.

Can I freeze the meatballs for later use?
Absolutely! I often make extra meatballs to freeze. To do this, arrange the cooked meatballs on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze them until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag or container, where they can be stored for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to use them, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the sauce.

What if my meatballs turn out tough?
Don’t worry! If your bourbon BBQ bacon cheeseburger meatballs end up tough, it may be due to overmixing the meat mixture. Be sure to gently mix the ingredients until just combined. If you’re browning them and they stick to the pan, it could indicate that the skillet wasn’t hot enough. A hot skillet creates a nice crust, which is critical for flavor and texture.

Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Very! If you’re looking to make this dish gluten-free, simply choose gluten-free breadcrumbs and ensure your BBQ sauce is gluten-free as well. For those with dairy allergies, try substituting the cheddar cheese with a dairy-free option. You can also adapt this recipe for vegetarian diets by using plant-based ground beef and ensuring that the BBQ sauce is vegetarian-friendly.