These Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs are a delicious twist on a classic favorite. Packed with flavor and ready in just 30 minutes, this recipe is perfect for a quick and easy meal that will satisfy your cravings.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe?
- The combination of bourbon BBQ sauce, crispy bacon, and melted cheddar cheese creates a mouthwatering flavor explosion.
- With minimal prep time and simple ingredients, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or casual get-togethers.
- These meatball subs can be easily customized to suit your taste preferences, making them a versatile and crowd-pleasing option.
Ingredient Notes:
- Ground beef (choose your preferred lean-to-fat ratio for juicier meatballs)
- Breadcrumbs (help bind the meatballs together)
- Egg (acts as a binder)
- Garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper (seasonings for added flavor)
- Olive oil (for cooking the meatballs)
- Bourbon BBQ sauce (adds a sweet and smoky kick)
- Shredded cheddar cheese (melty and gooey topping)
- Sub rolls (for serving)
- Crispy bacon (for that extra crunch and savory touch)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- In a mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Shape the mixture into meatballs and cook in a skillet with olive oil until browned and cooked through.
- Coat the meatballs in bourbon BBQ sauce and top with shredded cheddar cheese.
- Toast sub rolls, add meatballs and cheese, then finish with crispy bacon.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Helpful Tips:
- For a leaner option, use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef.
- Swap out the bourbon BBQ sauce for your favorite BBQ sauce variety for a different flavor profile.
- Store any leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Expert Tips for the Best Results:
- Use a mix of ground beef with a higher fat content for juicier and more flavorful meatballs.
- Allow the meatballs to rest for a few minutes after cooking to retain their juices and ensure tenderness.
- For an extra kick, sprinkle some red pepper flakes or hot sauce on top before serving.
Serving Suggestions:
These meatball subs pair perfectly with a side of crispy fries, a fresh green salad, or a cold beer for a complete and satisfying meal.
Storage and Reheating Tips:
To store, place any leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through, then assemble your subs for a quick and easy meal.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I make the meatballs ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the meatballs in advance and store them in the fridge until ready to cook.
- What can I use instead of cheddar cheese? Mozzarella, pepper jack, or Swiss cheese would all work well as substitutes.
- Can I freeze the meatballs? Yes, you can freeze cooked meatballs for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
- How can I make this recipe vegetarian? Substitute the ground beef with plant-based meat alternatives for a vegetarian-friendly version.
Conclusion:
These Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs are a delicious and satisfying meal that is sure to impress. Try this recipe for a quick and easy dinner option that will leave everyone wanting more. Share your feedback and enjoy every bite!
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Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs Ready in 30 Minutes
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 20 mins
- Total Time: 30 mins
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main-course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs are a delicious twist on a classic comfort food. Juicy meatballs loaded with bacon and cheddar cheese, smothered in bourbon BBQ sauce, and served in a soft sub roll.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
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
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Other:
- 1 cup bourbon BBQ sauce
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 4 sub rolls
- 8 slices crispy bacon
Instructions
- Preheat oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Make meatballs: In a mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Form into meatballs and place on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake meatballs: Bake for 15-20 minutes until cooked through.
- Assemble subs: In a skillet, heat bourbon BBQ sauce. Add cooked meatballs, cheddar cheese, and bacon. Stir to coat meatballs.
- Prepare subs: Slice sub rolls, fill with meatball mixture, and serve hot.
Notes
- You can customize these subs with additional toppings like pickles, jalapenos, or coleslaw.
- If you prefer a spicier kick, add some hot sauce to the BBQ sauce mixture.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 sub
- Calories: 600 kcal
- Sugar: 10 g
- Sodium: 800 mg
- Fat: 35 g
- Saturated Fat: 15 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 40 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 30 g
- Cholesterol: 120 mg