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

If you’re looking for a quick and delicious meal that the whole family will love, you’ve come to the right place! These Bourbon BBQ Turkey Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs Ready in 30 Minutes are the perfect blend of savory meatballs, sweet-smoky sauce, and comforting cheese. It’s one of those recipes I keep coming back to, whether it’s a busy weeknight or a casual gathering with friends.

The beauty of these subs is their versatility. You can whip them up in no time, and they’re always a crowd-pleaser. Plus, with layers of flavor and texture—from the juicy meatballs to the crispy turkey bacon—each bite feels like a celebration. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it’ll become a favorite at your dinner table!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to make: Ready in just 30 minutes, these subs fit perfectly into your busy schedule without sacrificing flavor.
• Family-friendly: Everyone loves meatballs, and the addition of melty cheese and crispy turkey bacon makes them even more appealing!
• Make-ahead friendly: Prep the meatballs ahead of time and store them in the fridge for an easy dinner option later in the week.
• Deliciously satisfying: The combination of bourbon BBQ sauce and cheddar cheese creates a mouthwatering flavor that keeps you coming back for more.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These are simple, wholesome ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry! Let’s gather everything we need to create these delightful subs.

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 Turkey Bacon

Variations

Feel free to customize these meatball subs to suit your taste or dietary needs. Here are some fun ideas:

• Swap the protein: Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option.
• Add veggies: Mix in finely chopped bell peppers or zucchini into the meatball mixture for added nutrition.
• Cheese it up: Try different cheeses like pepper jack for a spicy kick or mozzarella for a classic touch.
• Make it spicy: Add some red pepper flakes to the meatball mixture or use a spicy BBQ sauce for heat.

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

Step 1: Prepare the Meatball Mixture

In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mixing gently ensures that your meatballs stay tender rather than tough. It’s all about creating that perfect texture!

Step 2: Form Meatballs

Shape the mixture into meatballs about 1.5 inches in diameter (aiming for around 16-20 meatballs). Making them uniform helps them cook evenly and look nice when served.

Step 3: Brown the Meatballs

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the meatballs in a single layer. Browning adds flavor through caramelization—this step is essential for that delicious crust!

Step 4: Simmer with Sauce

Once browned on all sides (about 5-7 minutes), return all meatballs to the skillet and pour bourbon BBQ sauce over them. Lowering the heat to simmer allows those flavors to meld beautifully while keeping everything juicy.

Step 5: Toast Sub Rolls

While your meatballs are simmering away, slice your sub rolls lengthwise without cutting all the way through. Toast them in the preheated oven until golden brown—this adds an irresistible crunch!

Step 6: Assemble Your Subs

Place 4-5 meatballs inside each toasted roll and spoon extra sauce over them if desired. Top with shredded cheddar cheese and crispy Turkey Turkey Bacon pieces for that perfect finishing touch.

Step 7: Melt the Cheese

For extra-melty goodness, pop the assembled subs back into the oven for another couple of minutes until everything is gooey and delicious.

Step 8: Serve with Extra Sauce

Serve immediately with additional bourbon BBQ sauce on the side for dipping. Enjoy every flavorful bite of these amazing Bourbon BBQ Turkey Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs!

Pro Tips for Making Bourbon BBQ Turkey Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs Ready in 30 Minutes

These meatball subs are a breeze to make, and with a few handy tips, you can elevate them to the next level!

• Use freshly grated cheese – Freshly grating your cheddar cheese not only melts better but also has a richer flavor compared to pre-shredded varieties. This little detail can make a big difference in your subs.

• Don’t overcrowd the skillet – When browning the meatballs, make sure not to crowd them in the skillet. This ensures they brown evenly and develop that delicious crust without steaming.

• Adjust BBQ sauce to taste – Feel free to modify the amount of bourbon BBQ sauce based on your preference. If you like it saucier, go ahead and add more for that extra layer of flavor!

• Experiment with spices – Don’t hesitate to add your favorite spices or herbs into the meatball mixture! A pinch of red pepper flakes can add a delightful kick, while fresh herbs like parsley can brighten up the flavors.

• Let them rest before serving – Once cooked, allow the meatballs to rest for a few minutes before assembling your subs. This helps retain their juiciness and makes them easier to handle.

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

Presentation is key when it comes to serving these delicious meatball subs! Here are some ideas to make your meal even more appealing.

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh parsley or cilantro – A sprinkle of fresh herbs adds color and freshness, making your dish visually appealing and enhancing the flavor profile.

• Pickled jalapeños – For those who enjoy a bit of heat, pickled jalapeños provide a tangy crunch that pairs beautifully with the savory meatballs.

Side Dishes

• Sweet Potato Fries – Crispy sweet potato fries are a perfect match for these savory subs. Their natural sweetness complements the smoky BBQ sauce wonderfully.

• Coleslaw – A refreshing coleslaw brings a crunchy texture and balances out the richness of the meatball subs with its tangy dressing.

• Corn on the Cob – Grilled or roasted corn on the cob adds a summery vibe to your meal, and its sweetness pairs nicely with BBQ flavors.

• Mixed Green Salad – A light mixed green salad dressed with vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast and rounds out your meal beautifully.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re all set to create an unforgettable dining experience with these Bourbon BBQ Turkey Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs! Enjoy every delicious bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Bourbon BBQ Turkey Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy delicious flavors throughout the week with minimal effort.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the meatball subs to cool to room temperature before storing.
• Place any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• Enjoy them within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing

• Assemble the meatballs and cook them but do not add the sauce or cheese yet.
• Let the meatballs cool completely, then place them in freezer-safe bags or containers.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to use, thaw overnight in the fridge.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat meatballs in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through.
• If reheating subs, wrap them in foil and place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes.
• Alternatively, use a microwave; just be aware that bread may get soft.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this delicious recipe!

Can I make Bourbon BBQ Turkey Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the meatballs in advance and store them as instructed above. This makes it super easy to whip up these subs whenever you’re ready for a tasty meal.

What should I serve with Bourbon BBQ Turkey Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs?

These incredible subs pair perfectly with coleslaw, sweet potato fries, or a fresh garden salad. They also make a fantastic snack for game day gatherings!

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes! Ground turkey is an excellent alternative if you’re looking for a leaner option. Just be sure to adjust your seasonings according to your taste preference.

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

This recipe is designed to be quick and efficient, taking only about 30 minutes from start to finish!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these delightful Bourbon BBQ Turkey Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs as much as I do! They’re not just delicious but also versatile and perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a busy weeknight dinner or game day fun, these subs are sure to impress. Happy cooking, and don’t forget to share your creations with friends and family!