These Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs are a mouthwatering twist on classic cheeseburgers and meatball subs. Packed with juicy beef, gooey cheddar cheese, crispy bacon, and a kick of bourbon-infused BBQ sauce, these subs are pure comfort food perfection. Perfect for game day, parties, or a hearty dinner, they’re sure to satisfy any crowd!
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef (80/20)
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg
- ¼ cup BBQ sauce , plus additional for serving
- 2 tablespoons bourbon
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 4 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
- 4 sub rolls
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) .
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Prepare the Meatball Mixture
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef , breadcrumbs , egg , BBQ sauce , bourbon , garlic powder , salt , and pepper . Mix until well combined.
- Gently fold in the shredded cheddar cheese and crumbled bacon until evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
Step 3: Shape the Meatballs
- Scoop out small portions of the meat mixture (about 1-inch diameter ) and roll them into balls using your hands.
- Place the meatballs on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them evenly apart.
Step 4: Bake the Meatballs
- Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes , or until they are cooked through and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) .
Step 5: Toast the Sub Rolls
- While the meatballs are baking, slice the sub rolls in half lengthwise.
- Place the rolls on a separate baking sheet and toast them in the oven for 2–3 minutes , or until lightly golden and crisp.
Step 6: Assemble the Subs
- Once the meatballs are done, assemble the subs by placing a few meatballs inside each toasted sub roll.
- Drizzle additional BBQ sauce generously over the top of the meatballs for extra flavor.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
- Serve the Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs hot.
- Pair with extra BBQ sauce on the side for dipping, if desired.
Why You’ll Love These Subs
These subs are a flavor-packed fusion of savory, smoky, and cheesy goodness. The bourbon adds a subtle depth to the BBQ sauce, while the melted cheddar and crispy bacon take the meatballs to the next level. Tucked into toasted sub rolls and drizzled with more BBQ sauce, they’re a handheld delight that’s both satisfying and fun to eat.
Tips for Success
- Use fresh breadcrumbs : For the best texture, make your own breadcrumbs by pulsing stale bread in a food processor.
- Adjust the bourbon : If you prefer a milder bourbon flavor, reduce the amount to 1 tablespoon .
- Make ahead : Prepare the meatballs up to a day in advance and refrigerate until ready to bake.
- Freeze for later : Unbaked meatballs can be frozen on a baking sheet, then transferred to a freezer bag. Bake directly from frozen, adding 5–10 minutes to the cooking time.
Serving Suggestions
- Add toppings like sliced pickles, red onions, or jalapeños for extra crunch and tang.
- Serve with a side of crispy fries, coleslaw, or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
- Garnish with chopped green onions or sesame seeds for a pop of color.
Enjoy these Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs —a bold, flavorful, and indulgent dish that’s perfect for any occasion!
