Bourbon BBQ Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs Ready in 30 Minutes

These Bourbon BBQ Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs Ready in 30 Minutes deliver a delightful twist on classic burger flavors. Perfect for game day, family dinners, or casual gatherings, these meatball subs are packed with flavor and convenience. With juicy turkey bacon and a rich BBQ sauce, they stand out as a delicious comfort food option that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 30 minutes from start to finish, you can whip up these flavorful subs in no time.
• Irresistible Flavor: The combination of bourbon BBQ sauce with turkey bacon creates a unique taste that tantalizes the palate.
• Family-Friendly: These meatball subs are sure to please both kids and adults alike, making them perfect for any occasion.
• Customizable Toppings: Feel free to add your favorite toppings such as pickles or jalapeños for an extra kick.
• Satisfying Meal: Packed with protein and rich flavors, these subs make for a hearty main course that satisfies hunger.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools and prepare your cooking space. This will streamline the process and ensure everything goes smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• Skillet
• Baking sheet
• Oven
• Cooking spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Large mixing bowl: Provides ample space for combining ingredients without mess.
• Skillet: Ideal for browning meatballs evenly while allowing for easy flipping.
• Baking sheet: Perfect for toasting sub rolls evenly in the oven.

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Ingredients

To create these delicious Bourbon BBQ Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs, 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) so it’s ready for toasting the sub rolls later.

Step 2: Prepare Meatball Mixture

In a large bowl, combine the following ingredients:
1. Ground beef
2. Breadcrumbs
3. Egg
4. Garlic powder
5. Onion powder
6. Smoked paprika
7. Salt
8. Black pepper

Mix gently until just combined to avoid overworking the meat.

Step 3: Form Meatballs

Shape the mixture into meatballs approximately 1.5 inches in diameter; aim for about 16-20 meatballs total.

Step 4: Brown the Meatballs

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat:
– Add meatballs in a single layer; work in batches if necessary.
– Brown them on all sides, which should take about 5-7 minutes total.

Step 5: Simmer in Sauce

Once browned:
– Return all meatballs to the skillet.
– Pour bourbon BBQ sauce over them.
– Reduce heat to low and simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 6: Toast Sub Rolls

While meatballs simmer:
– Slice sub rolls lengthwise without cutting all the way through.
– Place them on a baking sheet and toast in the oven for about 5 minutes until golden brown.

Step 7: Assemble Subs

Fill each toasted roll with:
– 4-5 meatballs.
– Spoon extra sauce over them.

Top with:
– ¼ cup shredded cheddar cheese.
– 2 slices of crispy turkey bacon (broken into pieces if desired).

Step 8: Melt Cheese (Optional)

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

Step 9: Serve Immediately

Enjoy your Bourbon BBQ Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs with extra bourbon BBQ sauce on the side for dipping!

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

These Bourbon BBQ Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs are a delightful mix of savory flavors and textures. Serving them with the right accompaniments can elevate your meal experience.

Pair with Crispy Fries

• Serve classic French fries alongside for a satisfying crunch that complements the softness of the sub rolls.

Add a Fresh Salad

• A light mixed green salad with a tangy vinaigrette adds freshness and balances the richness of the meatballs.

Include Coleslaw

• Creamy coleslaw provides a crunchy contrast and can add a refreshing element to each bite of your subs.

Offer Pickles or Jalapeños

• Sliced pickles or spicy jalapeños can kick up the flavor profile, adding tanginess or heat according to your preference.

Serve with Extra BBQ Sauce

• Providing a side of bourbon BBQ sauce for dipping enhances the flavor and allows for more saucy goodness with each bite.

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

Perfecting these meatball subs is all about attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure they turn out delicious every time.

• Choose quality ground beef: Opt for an 80/20 lean-to-fat ratio for juicy meatballs that won’t dry out during cooking.

• Don’t overmix: Gently combine ingredients to keep the meatballs tender. Overmixing can lead to tough texture.

• Use fresh breadcrumbs: Fresh breadcrumbs provide better moisture and flavor than dry ones, enhancing each meatball’s taste.

• Toast rolls just right: Toasting the sub rolls until golden brown adds a perfect crunch that contrasts beautifully with the soft meatballs.

• Experiment with cheese: While cheddar is classic, try pepper jack or gouda for added creaminess or heat in your cheese topping.

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

Complement these flavorful subs with tasty side dishes that enhance your overall meal. Here are some great suggestions:

1. Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy sweet potato fries add sweetness and nutrition; bake them for an easy option.

2. Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn on the cob brings a sweet crunch that pairs perfectly with BBQ flavors.

3. Potato Salad: A creamy potato salad offers a cool side that balances the warmth of the meatball subs.

4. Stuffed Peppers: Mini stuffed peppers filled with rice and veggies make for a colorful side dish bursting with flavor.

5. Baked Beans: Hearty baked beans complement BBQ dishes well, making them a classic pairing for this meal.

6. Macaroni Salad: This chilled pasta salad is creamy and satisfying, making it an excellent addition to your spread.

7. Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned roasted vegetables provide a nutritious choice that adds color and flavor variety.

8. Chips and Salsa: For something simple, serve tortilla chips with fresh salsa as a crunchy snack before diving into your subs.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Bourbon BBQ Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that can affect the final result. Here are some tips to help you avoid them.

• Overmixing the meat: Mixing too vigorously can lead to tough meatballs. Gently combine the ingredients until just mixed for a tender texture.
• Skipping browning the meatballs: Browning adds flavor and texture. Don’t skip this step; it enhances the overall taste of your Bourbon BBQ Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs.
• Not using enough seasoning: If you under-season, your meatballs may taste bland. Ensure you measure spices accurately and adjust to your preference for a flavorful bite.
• Choosing the wrong rolls: The type of bread matters! Use fresh, sturdy sub rolls that can hold up to the juicy meatballs and sauce without falling apart.
• Ignoring cheese melting time: For melty cheese goodness, don’t rush this step. Allow enough time in the oven for the cheese to melt perfectly over your subs.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Bourbon BBQ Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs in an airtight container in the fridge.
• They will keep well for up to 3 days.

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

• Wrap individual subs tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil before placing them in a freezer-safe bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

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

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), place subs on a baking sheet, and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place subs on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat for about 1-2 minutes or until warm.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a splash of water; cover with a lid to steam for about 5-7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes these Bourbon BBQ Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs special?

These Meatball Subs stand out due to their juicy turkey meatballs coated in sweet and smoky bourbon BBQ sauce, offering a unique twist on traditional flavors.

Can I substitute ground beef with another protein?

Absolutely! You can use ground turkey or chicken if you prefer a leaner option while still enjoying delicious flavors.

How do I customize my Bourbon BBQ Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs?

Feel free to add toppings like jalapeños, pickles, or different types of cheese based on your personal taste preferences.

Are Bourbon BBQ Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs suitable for meal prep?

Yes! These subs are perfect for meal prep as they store well and can be easily reheated throughout the week.

How long does it take to make these delicious subs?

From start to finish, you can have your Bourbon BBQ Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs ready in just 30 minutes!

Final Thoughts

These Bourbon BBQ Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs are not only quick and easy but also packed with flavor that everyone will love. The combination of savory turkey meatballs, smoky sauce, and crispy turkey bacon makes these subs irresistible. Feel free to customize them with your favorite toppings or sauces for an even more delightful experience!