Bourbon BBQ Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs Ready in 30 Minutes

These Sizzling Bourbon BBQ  Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs Ready in 30 Minutes bring a delightful twist to classic burger flavors. Ideal for game day, casual gatherings, or a quick family dinner, these subs offer juicy meatballs simmered in a sweet-smoky sauce, all nestled in warm toasted rolls. With melty cheddar and crispy  Turkey Bacon, they promise an unforgettable taste experience.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, making them perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute parties.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of bourbon BBQ sauce and spices creates a mouthwatering flavor that everyone will enjoy.
• Versatile Meal: Great for lunch, dinner, or even as party appetizers, these subs are sure to impress.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the savory meatballs and cheesy goodness wrapped in a soft roll.
• Comfort Food Delight: A hearty meal that satisfies cravings while being easy to make at home.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare these delicious Bourbon BBQ Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment makes the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• Skillet
• Baking sheet
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon or spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Large mixing bowl: Perfect for combining ingredients without spills or mess.
• Skillet: Essential for browning the meatballs evenly and simmering them in sauce.

Ingredients

To make the Bourbon BBQ Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs Ready in 30 Minutes, gather the following 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 Assembly

• 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) to prepare for toasting the sub rolls later.

Step 2: Prepare the Meatball Mixture

In a large mixing bowl:
1. Combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
2. Mix gently until just combined.

Step 3: Form the Meatballs

Using your hands:
1. Form the mixture into meatballs about 1.5 inches in diameter. You should have approximately 16-20 meatballs.

Step 4: Cook the Meatballs

In a large skillet:
1. Heat olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add meatballs in a single layer (cook in batches if necessary).
3. Brown them on all sides for about 5-7 minutes.

Step 5: Simmer with Sauce

Once browned:
1. Return all meatballs to the skillet.
2. Pour in the bourbon BBQ sauce, reduce heat to low, and simmer for 10 minutes while stirring gently.

Step 6: Toast Sub Rolls

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

Step 7: Assemble the Subs

After toasting:
1. Place 4-5 meatballs inside each toasted roll, spooning extra sauce over them.
2. Top each sub with ¼ cup shredded cheddar cheese and break up 2 slices of crispy Turkey Bacon, spreading it on top.

Step 8: Melt Cheese (Optional)

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

Step 9: Serve

Serve immediately with additional bourbon BBQ sauce on the side for dipping. Enjoy these hearty 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 not only delicious but also versatile when it comes to serving. You can elevate your meal with various sides and garnishes to impress your family or guests.

Pair with Crispy Fries

• Serve hot, crispy fries on the side for the perfect crunch that complements the juicy meatballs.

Add a Fresh Salad

• A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette will add freshness and balance to the rich flavors of the subs.

Include Pickles and Jalapeños

• Offer a variety of pickles and sliced jalapeños as toppings for those who enjoy an extra kick of flavor.

Serve with Coleslaw

• A creamy coleslaw adds a crunchy texture and a touch of creaminess that pairs beautifully with the meatball subs.

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

Making these meatball subs is easy, but following a few tips can help you achieve perfection every time.

• Choose the right ground beef: Opt for an 80/20 lean-to-fat ratio for juicier meatballs.
• Don’t overmix: Combine the ingredients just until mixed to keep your meatballs tender.
• Brown well: Make sure to brown the meatballs thoroughly for added depth of flavor before simmering in sauce.
• Toast the rolls: Toasting enhances the texture and prevents sogginess from the sauce.
• Experiment with toppings: Try different cheeses or toppings like avocado or sautéed onions for added flavor.

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

Serving these flavorful subs can be enhanced by pairing them with delectable side dishes. Here are some great options:

1. Sweet Potato Fries: These offer a sweet touch that contrasts well with savory meatballs. Bake or fry until crispy.
2. Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn adds a sweet, buttery element perfect for summer meals.
3. Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is always a hit and great for dipping into any leftover bourbon BBQ sauce.
4. Vegetable Chips: A crunchy, healthier alternative to traditional chips; season them lightly for added flavor.
5. Macaroni Salad: This creamy side dish brings comfort and pairs beautifully with BBQ flavors.
6. Baked Beans: Rich and hearty baked beans complement the smoky taste of bourbon BBQ sauce wonderfully.
7. Potato Salad: Creamy potato salad provides a cool contrast and pairs well with warm subs.
8. Grilled Vegetables: Assorted grilled veggies add color, nutrients, and a smoky flavor that enhances your meal experience.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Bourbon BBQ  Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs, it’s easy to run into some common pitfalls. Here are mistakes to watch out for:

• Overmixing the meat: Mixing too much can make the meatballs tough. Combine ingredients until just mixed for tender meatballs.
• Skipping the browning step: Browning adds flavor. Don’t skip it; sear your meatballs for a rich, savory taste.
• Not measuring sauce properly: Too much or too little sauce can ruin the balance. Measure carefully to achieve the perfect flavor.
• Ignoring roll quality: Using stale rolls can affect texture. Choose fresh, high-quality sub rolls for the best experience.
• Rushing the toasting process: Toasting enhances flavor and texture. Take your time to ensure they are golden brown without burning.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

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

• Freeze in individual portions using freezer-safe bags or containers.
• Can be stored for up to 3 months.

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

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat wrapped in foil for about 15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate and heat for 1-2 minutes, checking regularly.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or sauce if needed to prevent sticking.

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 smoky BBQ sauce, creating a deliciously satisfying meal.

Can I use other meats instead of turkey?

Yes! You can substitute ground beef or chicken if you prefer, adjusting cooking times as necessary.

How long does it take to make Bourbon BBQ  Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs?

This recipe is designed to be quick and efficient, taking only about 30 minutes from prep to plate.

What sides pair well with these meatball subs?

Consider serving with crispy fries, coleslaw, or a fresh garden salad for a complete meal.

Final Thoughts

Bourbon BBQ Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs Ready in 30 Minutes offer an exciting twist on classic comfort food. The combination of juicy meatballs, rich BBQ sauce, and melty cheese makes them irresistible. Plus, feel free to customize your subs with different toppings or sauces according to your taste!