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

If you’re looking for a fun and delicious meal that comes together in just 30 minutes, then you’re in the right place! These Bourbon BBQ Turkey Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs are not only bursting with flavor but are also perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. Imagine sinking your teeth into juicy meatballs simmered in a sweet-smoky BBQ sauce, all nestled in warm sub rolls with melty cheddar cheese and crispy turkey bacon. Trust me, this is comfort food at its finest!

This recipe holds a special place in my heart because it combines so many of our favorite flavors into an easy-to-make dish. It’s great for impressing guests at a casual get-together or simply enjoying a cozy night in with loved ones. Let’s dive into why you’ll absolutely love making these subs!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy: This dish is ready in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for those hectic evenings when you’re short on time.
• Family-friendly: Everyone loves meatballs, and the combination of BBQ sauce and crispy turkey bacon will have even the pickiest eaters asking for seconds!
• Versatile: You can customize the ingredients to suit your taste, making it easy to adapt to any preference.
• Comforting flavors: The rich BBQ sauce combined with melty cheese creates a warm and satisfying meal that feels like a hug on a plate.
• Make-ahead friendly: Prep the meatballs ahead of time for an even quicker dinner solution on busy nights.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These are simple, wholesome ingredients that come together to create something truly special. Let’s take a look at what you need for these delightful Bourbon BBQ Turkey Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball 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 and Assembly

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 cup bourbon BBQ sauce
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 4 sub rolls
• 8 slices crispy Turkey Turkey Bacon

Now that we have our ingredients lined up, let’s jump into how to make these tasty subs!

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to get creative with these variations:

• Swap the protein: Instead of ground beef, try using ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
• Change up the cheese: Experiment with different types of cheese like pepper jack or Monterey Jack for an extra kick!
• Add veggies: Toss in some sautéed bell peppers or onions inside your subs for added flavor and nutrition.
• Make it spicy: If you love heat, add some crushed red pepper flakes to the meat mixture or use spicy BBQ sauce.

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

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) is key! This ensures that your sub rolls will toast perfectly while everything else cooks. A little bit of time spent here leads to deliciously golden rolls later on.

Step 2: Prepare the Meatball Mixture

In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mixing gently until just combined is crucial—overmixing can lead to tough meatballs. We want them tender and juicy!

Step 3: Form the Meatballs

Using your hands, form the mixture into meatballs about 1.5 inches in diameter. Aim for around 16-20 meatballs; this size ensures they fit perfectly inside your sub rolls while cooking evenly.

Step 4: Brown the Meatballs

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the meatballs in a single layer—this allows them to brown nicely without steaming. Browning adds depth of flavor and texture that makes each bite irresistible!

Step 5: Simmer in Bourbon BBQ Sauce

Once browned on all sides (about 5-7 minutes total), return all meatballs to the skillet and pour over the bourbon BBQ sauce. Lowering the heat allows them to simmer gently for about 10 minutes so they soak up all that delicious flavor.

Step 6: Toast Your Sub Rolls

While your meatballs are simmering away, slice your sub rolls lengthwise without cutting all the way through. Place them on a baking sheet and toast them in the preheated oven for about 5 minutes until golden brown—this step adds an amazing crunch that pairs beautifully with soft meatballs.

Step 7: Assemble Your Subs

Grab those toasted rolls and place 4-5 meatballs inside each one. Don’t forget to spoon extra sauce over them—it’s all about maximizing flavor here!

Step 8: Add Cheese and Turkey Bacon

Top each sub with ¼ cup shredded cheddar cheese and two slices of crispy Turkey Turkey Bacon—broken into pieces if desired. This combination really brings everything together!

Step 9: Melt That Cheese!

For extra-melty goodness, pop those assembled subs back into the oven for another 2-3 minutes until the cheese is fully melted. The aroma will be mouthwatering!

Step 10: Serve and Enjoy!

Now it’s time to serve these beauties immediately! Pair them with extra bourbon BBQ sauce on the side for dipping—you won’t regret it!

Enjoy every last bite of these Bourbon BBQ Turkey Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs ready in just 30 minutes!

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

Creating these delicious subs is a breeze, but a few pro tips can elevate your dish even further!

• Use lean ground beef: Opting for an 80/20 lean-to-fat ratio will ensure juicy meatballs without being overly greasy, keeping the focus on the flavors.

• Don’t overmix the meat: Gently combining your ingredients prevents tough meatballs. Overmixing can result in a chewy texture, so mix until just combined for tender bites.

• Customize the BBQ sauce: Feel free to experiment with different BBQ sauces to match your taste preferences. A spicy version can give it a kick, while a sweeter one can balance out the flavors beautifully.

• Toast the rolls perfectly: Toasting your sub rolls not only adds texture but also helps them hold up better against the saucy meatballs. Keep an eye on them to avoid burning!

• Add extra toppings: Consider adding sliced jalapeños or fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley for an extra layer of flavor and freshness that contrasts wonderfully with the richness of the subs.

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

Serving these Bourbon BBQ Turkey Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs is all about presentation and making them even more enjoyable! Here are some fun ideas to make your meal unforgettable.

Garnishes

• Chopped green onions: Sprinkle some chopped green onions on top for a pop of color and a mild onion flavor that enhances each bite.
• Pickles: Adding dill pickles on the side not only complements the savory flavors but also brings a refreshing crunch that cuts through the richness of the cheese and bacon.

Side Dishes

• Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy sweet potato fries make for a perfect pairing, bringing a hint of sweetness that complements the smoky BBQ sauce.
• Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds a refreshing crunch and balances out the hearty meatball subs nicely. It’s also super easy to whip up!
• Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn on the cob drizzled with lime juice and sprinkled with chili powder is an excellent side that adds brightness and zest.
• Mixed Green Salad: A simple mixed green salad with cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette provides a fresh contrast to the rich flavors of your main dish.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’ll not only create an incredible meal but also impress everyone at your table! Enjoy every bite of these delightful Bourbon BBQ Turkey Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs.

Make Ahead and Storage

These Bourbon BBQ Turkey Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs are perfect for meal prep! You can easily make them in advance and enjoy the deliciousness throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the meatball subs to cool completely before storing.
• Place the subs in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
• For best results, separate meatballs from the rolls to keep them from getting soggy.

Freezing

• After cooking, let the meatballs cool completely.
• Freeze meatballs in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag or container.
• These can be frozen for up to 3 months. However, it’s best to freeze the meatballs without the sauce.

Reheating

• To reheat frozen meatballs, allow them to thaw overnight in the fridge.
• Heat in a skillet over medium heat with a little BBQ sauce until warmed through.
• For assembled subs, wrap them in foil and place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.

FAQs

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

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

Absolutely! You can prepare the meatballs and sauce ahead of time, then assemble and bake just before serving.

What should I serve with Bourbon BBQ Turkey Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs Ready in 30 Minutes?

These tasty subs pair well with coleslaw, sweet potato fries, or a fresh garden salad for a complete meal!

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes! Ground turkey is a great substitute if you’re looking for a leaner option. Just make sure to adjust cooking times as needed.

How do I customize these meatball subs?

Feel free to add your favorite toppings such as pickles, jalapeños, or even different cheeses like pepper jack for an extra kick!

Are these subs suitable for meal prep?

Definitely! They store well in the fridge or freezer and are easy to reheat, making them perfect for quick lunches or dinners.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these Bourbon BBQ Turkey Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs! They truly embody comfort food at its finest while being quick enough for any night of the week. Whether you’re treating yourself after a busy day or sharing with family and friends, these delightful subs are sure to impress. Enjoy every bite, and don’t forget to share your creations!