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

If you’re looking for a dish that brings smiles to the dinner table in just 30 minutes, you’ve landed in the right place! These Bourbon BBQ Turkey Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs are not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make. They combine all the classic flavors of a cheeseburger into a fun and messy sub that everyone will love. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual family gatherings, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your home.

The beauty of these meatball subs is in their simplicity and comfort. With juicy, seasoned meatballs simmered in a sweet-smoky sauce, topped with melty cheese and crispy Turkey Turkey Bacon, they deliver that satisfying bite we all crave. Plus, they are a hit with both kids and adults alike!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This recipe can be ready in just 30 minutes, making it a great choice for those hectic nights.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves meatballs and subs! It’s an easy way to get the whole family excited about dinner.
• Delicious Flavors: The combination of bourbon BBQ sauce, cheddar cheese, and Turkey Turkey Bacon creates a mouthwatering taste experience.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare the meatballs ahead of time and simply heat them up when you’re ready to serve.
• Customizable: Feel free to tweak the recipe to suit your tastes or what you have on hand!

Ingredients You’ll Need

For these Bourbon BBQ Turkey Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs, you’ll find that the ingredients are simple and wholesome. Gather these items for a delightful cooking experience:

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 Assembly

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

Variations

One of the best parts about these meatball subs is how flexible they can be! Here are some fun variations to consider:

• Swap the protein: Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option.
• Add veggies: Mix in finely chopped spinach or bell peppers into the meatball mixture for extra nutrition.
• Change the cheese: Experiment with different cheeses like pepper jack or mozzarella for a unique flavor twist.
• Spice it up: Add some diced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes to the meatball mix if you want a little heat.

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

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your sub rolls will toast beautifully while you prepare the meatballs.

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 helps keep your meatballs tender. Be careful not to overmix!

Step 3: Form the Meatballs

Shape the mixture into meatballs about 1.5 inches in diameter. This should yield around 16-20 meatballs. Making them uniform in size ensures even cooking throughout.

Step 4: Brown the Meatballs

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding. Browning adds flavor through caramelization and gives them a nice texture.

Step 5: Simmer with Sauce

Once browned on all sides (about 5-7 minutes), return all meatballs to the skillet. Pour bourbon BBQ sauce over them and reduce heat to low. Let them simmer 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 your preheated oven for about 5 minutes until golden brown.

Step 7: Assemble Your Subs

Carefully place 4-5 meatballs inside each toasted roll, spooning extra sauce over them for added moisture and flavor.

Step 8: Add Cheese and Bacon

Top each sub with ¼ cup shredded cheddar cheese and break two slices of crispy Turkey Turkey Bacon into pieces on top for an extra crunch.

Step 9: Melt That Cheese!

For an ultra-melty finish, pop your assembled subs back into the oven for another couple of minutes until the cheese is fully melted.

Step 10: Serve with Style!

Serve immediately with additional bourbon BBQ sauce on the side for dipping. Enjoy every cheesy, meaty bite of these amazing subs!

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

Creating these meatball subs is a breeze, especially with a few helpful tips that can elevate your dish to the next level!

• Keep it Light: Use lean ground turkey instead of ground beef to make a healthier version without sacrificing flavor. The turkey will still soak up the bourbon BBQ sauce beautifully.

• Don’t Overmix: When combining your meatball ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tough meatballs, so be gentle for that perfect tender bite.

• Use a Meat Thermometer: For perfectly cooked meatballs, use a meat thermometer to ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). This guarantees they’re safe and delicious!

• Customize Your Sauce: Feel free to experiment with different barbecue sauces or add spices like cayenne pepper for some heat. Customizing your sauce can make the flavors pop even more.

• Prep Ahead: If you’re short on time, prepare the meatballs and sauce ahead of time. You can refrigerate them until you’re ready to cook—this makes weeknight dinners a snap!

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

These Bourbon BBQ Turkey Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs are not only delicious but also visually appealing! Here are some ideas on how to present this scrumptious dish.

Garnishes

• Fresh Herbs: Chopped parsley or cilantro adds a pop of color and freshness that brightens up each bite.
• Pickles: Slices of dill pickle on top add crunch and tanginess, complementing the richness of the subs.
• Sliced Jalapeños: For those who enjoy a kick, fresh or pickled jalapeños provide heat and vibrant color.

Side Dishes

• Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy and sweet, these fries offer a delightful contrast to the savory meatball subs and are easy to bake alongside.
• Coleslaw: A refreshing side that adds crunch and creaminess; it balances out the richness of the meatballs with its tangy flavors.
• Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn is an excellent side dish that brings summer vibes and sweetness to your meal.
• Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with seasonal greens and a zesty vinaigrette helps cleanse the palate between bites of hearty sub goodness.

By following these serving suggestions, you’ll create an inviting meal that’s sure to please everyone at your table! Enjoy your cooking adventure!

Make Ahead and Storage

This recipe for Bourbon BBQ Turkey Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make a batch ahead of time, which makes weekday meals a breeze.

Storing Leftovers

• Place any leftover meatball subs in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• To keep the bread from getting soggy, consider storing the meatballs and sub rolls separately if you plan to enjoy them later.

Freezing

• Allow the meatballs to cool completely before freezing.
• Place cooked meatballs in a freezer-safe bag or container, ensuring they’re spaced out to avoid sticking together.
• Store in the freezer for up to 3 months. Sub rolls can be frozen separately as well.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat meatballs on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through.
• Alternatively, microwave for about 1-2 minutes or until hot.
• If reheating frozen meatballs, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating, or use a microwave on defrost setting.

FAQs

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

Can I make Bourbon BBQ Turkey Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs Ready in 30 Minutes ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the meatballs and sauce in advance and store them. When you’re ready to serve, just heat them up and assemble your subs.

What can I substitute for ground beef in Bourbon BBQ Turkey Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs Ready in 30 Minutes?

You can use ground turkey or chicken as a lighter alternative. Just adjust cooking times slightly since they may cook faster than beef.

How do I ensure my meatballs stay moist?

Make sure not to overmix your ingredients when combining them. Adding breadcrumbs and egg helps keep them moist during cooking!

Can I use a different type of cheese instead of cheddar?

Yes! Feel free to experiment with other cheeses like Monterey Jack or pepper jack for a bit of spice.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find these Bourbon BBQ Turkey Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs as delightful as I do! They are not just quick to prepare; they also pack a flavor punch that’s hard to resist. Enjoy making this recipe – it’s perfect for family dinners, game day treats, or just because you deserve something special. Happy cooking!