If you are craving a hearty, flavor-packed sandwich that brings together the best of BBQ, cheeseburger goodness, and smoky bacon, then the Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs Recipe is about to become your new favorite. This mouthwatering creation marries juicy, bourbon-infused meatballs with rich BBQ sauce, crispy bacon, and melted cheddar cheese nestled inside a soft sub roll for the ultimate comfort food experience. Every bite bursts with smoky, savory, and tangy notes that make this recipe truly unforgettable.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic behind the Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs Recipe lies in its simple, yet thoughtfully chosen ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor and texture—from the tender beef and aromatic garlic to the sharp cheddar and crispy bacon that add irresistible character.
- 1 lb ground beef: The juicy, meaty base of the meatballs that delivers rich flavor and a satisfying texture.
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs: Helps bind the meatballs and keeps them tender without falling apart.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a subtle nutty depth and umami boost to the meatballs.
- 1 egg: Works as a natural binder to hold the meatball mixture together perfectly.
- 1/4 cup chopped onion: Introduces a sweet and savory note that brightens every bite.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses aroma and a little pungent zing to the meatball mixture.
- 1/4 cup bourbon: Brings a warm, caramel complexity that elevates the BBQ sauce beautifully.
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce: The smoky, tangy coating that makes these meatballs incredible.
- 6 strips bacon, cooked and crumbled: Adds a crispy, savory crunch that’s the perfect contrast.
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Melts luscious and gooey over the meatballs to bring that classic cheeseburger vibe.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasoning to highlight all the natural flavors.
- 4 sub rolls: Soft, sturdy buns to hold all your delicious fillings.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: For browning the meatballs to perfection without sticking.
- Optional toppings: Sliced pickles, lettuce, tomatoes for freshness and crunch.
How to Make Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Meatball Mixture
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s ready when your meatballs are perfectly browned. Then, grab a large bowl and combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, egg, chopped onion, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Mixing everything thoroughly ensures each meatball will be bursting with balanced flavor and tender texture.
Step 2: Shape and Brown Your Meatballs
Form the mixture into small, 1-inch meatballs—aim for about 18 to 20. Using a skillet heated with olive oil over medium heat, brown these meatballs on all sides for 5 to 7 minutes. This step locks in juices and builds a lovely crust that adds depth to every bite.
Step 3: Make the Bourbon BBQ Sauce
Once your meatballs are browned, remove them and carefully pour the bourbon into the hot skillet. Let it simmer for about a minute to reduce slightly, then stir in the BBQ sauce. Allow this sauce to thicken just a bit while bubbling gently—this blend is what makes the Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs Recipe truly sing.
Step 4: Coat and Bake the Meatballs
Return the meatballs to the skillet, making sure each one is coated generously with the bourbon BBQ sauce. Transfer the skillet into the oven and bake for 10 to 12 minutes until the meatballs are cooked through and tender, soaking up all those wonderful flavors.
Step 5: Assemble Your Subs
While the meatballs bake, slice open your sub rolls lengthwise, prepping them to be filled with deliciousness. Once the meatballs are ready, stuff them into the rolls along with crumbled bacon and shredded cheddar cheese. Pop the filled subs back into the oven for a few minutes until the cheese melts into a gooey, irresistible blanket.
Step 6: Add Toppings and Serve
Finally, pull your subs out of the oven and delight in adding any fresh optional toppings like pickles, lettuce, or tomatoes for a burst of crispness and color. Serve warm and get ready to savor every messy, glorious bite of the Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs Recipe.
How to Serve Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs Recipe
Garnishes
For garnishes, sliced pickles add that perfect zingy crunch while crisp lettuce and juicy tomato slices provide fresh brightness to balance the rich, smoky flavors. Don’t be shy about piling on these toppings—they truly transform the sandwich from amazing to unforgettable.
Side Dishes
Serve your subs alongside classic sides like crispy sweet potato fries, crunchy coleslaw, or a simple green salad. These complementary dishes add texture and flavor contrast while keeping the meal satisfying and well-rounded.
Creative Ways to Present
Elevate your Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs Recipe party platter by slicing subs into smaller sliders perfect for sharing. You can also skew the meatballs and top with cheese and bacon on mini rolls for a fun appetizer twist. Presentation like this turns an everyday meal into a show-stopping experience.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover meatballs and assembled subs separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. This keeps the bread from getting soggy and the meatballs fresh for the next meal.
Freezing
Both the cooked meatballs (coated in sauce) and the assembled subs freeze well. Wrap them tightly in foil or plastic wrap and place in freezer bags for up to 3 months. This makes it easy to enjoy this delicious Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs Recipe anytime.
Reheating
Reheat meatballs gently in the microwave or oven until warmed through. Heat assembled subs in the oven until the cheese is melted again and the sandwich is heated all the way. This maintains the best flavor and texture.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! While cheddar is classic, feel free to substitute with Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or even pepper jack for an extra kick. Each brings its own character to the Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs Recipe.
What type of bourbon works best?
Any good quality bourbon that you enjoy drinking will do. It’s the caramel and vanilla notes that enhance the BBQ sauce here, so choose one with a smooth finish.
Can this recipe be made gluten-free?
Yes, simply swap the breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives like crushed gluten-free crackers or almond flour. Be sure your BBQ sauce is gluten-free as well to keep it safe.
Is it necessary to brown the meatballs before baking?
Browning adds a delicious crust and depth of flavor, making the meatballs more flavorful. Skipping this step is possible, but the end result won’t have quite the same richness.
How spicy is the dish?
This recipe is generally mild but full of smoky and savory flavors. You can add a little hot sauce or cayenne pepper to the meatballs or BBQ sauce if you prefer a bit of heat.
Final Thoughts
Trust me when I say the Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs Recipe is a game-changer for your dinner table. With layers of bold flavor, satisfying textures, and the perfect balance of smoky and savory, these subs promise a crowd-pleasing meal every single time. Give it a try soon—you’ll understand why it has quickly become a beloved favorite for sandwiches that truly satisfy.
Print
Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs Recipe
- Prep Time: 0h 20m
- Cook Time: 0h 30m
- Total Time: 0h 50m
- Yield: 4 subs
- Category: Sandwich
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs combine juicy, flavorful meatballs infused with bourbon and smothered in smoky BBQ sauce, layered with crispy bacon and melted cheddar cheese inside soft sub rolls. Perfect for a hearty, crowd-pleasing sandwich with all the fun flavors of a cheeseburger in a convenient meatball sub format.
Ingredients
Meatballs
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 1/4 cup chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Sauce
- 1/4 cup bourbon
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
Assembly
- 6 strips bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 4 sub rolls
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Optional toppings: sliced pickles, lettuce, tomatoes
Instructions
- Preheat Baking Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the meatballs and melting the cheese later.
- Mix Meatball Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, chopped onion, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly incorporated.
- Shape Meatballs: Form the mixture into about 18-20 meatballs, each approximately 1 inch in diameter for even cooking.
- Brown Meatballs: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs and brown them evenly on all sides, about 5-7 minutes, to develop flavor and texture.
- Remove Meatballs: Take the browned meatballs out of the skillet and set them aside temporarily.
- Prepare Bourbon BBQ Sauce: In the same skillet, carefully add the bourbon. Let it reduce for about a minute to cook off the alcohol. Stir in the BBQ sauce and simmer for another minute until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Coat Meatballs in Sauce: Return the browned meatballs to the skillet, stirring gently to coat each one thoroughly with the bourbon BBQ sauce.
- Bake Meatballs: Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake the meatballs for 10-12 minutes, or until they are cooked through and juicy inside.
- Prepare Sub Rolls: While the meatballs bake, slice the sub rolls lengthwise, ready to be filled.
- Assemble Subs: Fill each sub roll with a portion of the sauced meatballs, then sprinkle crumbled bacon and shredded cheddar cheese over the top.
- Melt Cheese: Place the assembled subs back in the oven for a few minutes until the cheddar cheese melts and becomes bubbly.
- Add Toppings and Serve: Remove the subs from the oven, add any optional toppings such as sliced pickles, lettuce, or tomatoes for extra crunch and freshness. Serve warm and enjoy a savory, comforting sandwich.
Notes
- Cooking the meatballs first by browning them locks in moisture and adds flavor.
- Cooking the bourbon reduces alcohol content while intensifying flavor in the BBQ sauce.
- You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
- For extra smoky flavor, use a smoky BBQ sauce variety.
- Adding optional fresh toppings balances the rich meat and cheese with crisp texture.
