Introduction to Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs
There’s something magical about the combination of bourbon, BBQ, and bacon that brings a smile to my face.
When I first tried Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs, I knew I had stumbled upon a treasure.
This dish is not just a meal; it’s a celebration of flavors that can turn any ordinary day into a special occasion.
Whether you’re looking for a quick solution after a long day or a dish to impress your friends at game night, these subs are your answer.
Trust me, once you take a bite, you’ll be hooked!
Why You’ll Love This Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs
These Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs are a game-changer for any busy weeknight.
They come together in just 45 minutes, making them perfect for those evenings when time is tight.
The rich flavors of bourbon and BBQ sauce meld beautifully, creating a taste explosion that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Plus, who can resist the crispy bacon and gooey melted cheese?
It’s comfort food at its finest!
Ingredients for Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs
Creating these Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs is a breeze with the right ingredients.
Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this delicious dish:
Ground beef: The star of the show, providing a juicy base for your meatballs.
Bacon: Adds a crispy, smoky flavor that elevates the entire dish.
Breadcrumbs: Helps bind the meatballs together while keeping them tender.
Parmesan cheese: A sprinkle of this adds a savory depth to the meatball mixture.
Fresh parsley: Brightens up the flavors and adds a pop of color.
Egg: Acts as a binder, ensuring your meatballs hold their shape.
Garlic powder: Infuses a warm, aromatic flavor that’s hard to resist.
Onion powder: Complements the garlic and enhances the overall taste.
Salt and black pepper: Essential seasonings that bring all the flavors together.
BBQ sauce: The sweet and tangy element that makes these subs irresistible.
Bourbon: Adds a rich, complex flavor that pairs perfectly with BBQ sauce.
Hoagie rolls: The perfect vessel for your meatballs, providing a soft yet sturdy base.
Shredded cheddar cheese: Melts beautifully on top, creating a gooey, cheesy finish.
For those looking to mix things up, consider adding sliced jalapeños for a kick or pickles for a tangy crunch.
If you prefer a lighter option, ground turkey or chicken can be swapped in for the beef.
You can find the exact measurements for each ingredient at the bottom of the article, ready for printing!
How to Make Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs
Making Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs is a fun and rewarding experience.
Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time!
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F.
This step is crucial for ensuring that your hoagie rolls get perfectly toasted and your meatballs cook evenly.
A hot oven helps lock in flavors and gives that golden finish we all love.
Step 2: Cook the Bacon
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until it’s crispy.
This usually takes about 5-7 minutes.
Once done, remove the bacon and let it drain on paper towels.
Don’t forget to leave about a tablespoon of bacon grease in the skillet.
That grease adds a rich flavor to your meatballs!
Step 3: Prepare the Meatball Mixture
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, crispy bacon, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
Mix everything gently until just combined.
Be careful not to overmix; this keeps your meatballs tender and juicy.
Step 4: Form the Meatballs
Now it’s time to shape your meatballs!
Take a handful of the mixture and roll it into a ball about 1.5 inches in diameter.
This size ensures even cooking.
If you want uniform meatballs, consider using a cookie scoop!
Step 5: Sear the Meatballs
In the same skillet with the reserved bacon grease, sear the meatballs over medium-high heat.
Cook them for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally until they’re browned on all sides.
Searing adds a delicious crust and locks in the flavors, making your meatballs even more irresistible.
Step 6: Simmer with BBQ Sauce and Bourbon
In a small bowl, mix the BBQ sauce and bourbon together.
Pour this mixture over the seared meatballs in the skillet.
Let them simmer for about 10 minutes.
This step enhances the flavor and ensures the meatballs are cooked through, soaking up all that delicious sauce.
Step 7: Toast the Hoagie Rolls
While the meatballs are simmering, slice your hoagie rolls and place them on a baking sheet.
Toast them in the oven for about 5 minutes.
Toasting adds a nice crunch and helps hold all the delicious fillings without getting soggy.
Step 8: Assemble and Melt the Cheese
Once the meatballs are done, it’s time to assemble your subs!
Place the meatballs in the toasted hoagie rolls and top them with shredded cheddar cheese.
Return the subs to the oven for another 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
The sight of that gooey cheese is pure joy!
Tips for Success
Use a meat thermometer to ensure your meatballs reach an internal temperature of 160°F.
For extra flavor, let the meatball mixture sit for 15 minutes before forming them.
Don’t skip toasting the hoagie rolls; it makes a world of difference in texture.
Feel free to customize the BBQ sauce with your favorite brand or add spices.
Leftover meatballs can be frozen for a quick meal later!
Equipment Needed
Large skillet: A non-stick skillet works great, but any heavy-bottomed pan will do.
Baking sheet: Use a regular baking sheet or a cast-iron skillet for toasting rolls.
Mixing bowl: A large bowl for combining ingredients; a stand mixer can save time.
Cookie scoop: Optional, but it helps in forming uniform meatballs.
Meat thermometer: Ensures your meatballs are cooked perfectly.
Variations
Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the meatball mixture for a fiery twist.
Cheesy Delight: Mix in some cream cheese or mozzarella for an extra cheesy meatball experience.
Herb Infusion: Experiment with different herbs like thyme or oregano to change up the flavor profile.
Gluten-Free Option: Substitute breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives like crushed rice crackers or almond flour.
Vegetarian Version: Use plant-based ground meat or lentils for a meat-free alternative that still packs a punch.
Serving Suggestions
Pair your Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs with crispy sweet potato fries for a delightful crunch.
A side of coleslaw adds a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the subs.
Serve with a cold craft beer or a classic soda for the perfect meal.
Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and added flavor.
FAQs about Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs
Can I make Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the meatballs and sauce in advance. Just store them in the fridge and assemble the subs when you’re ready to serve. This makes for a quick meal on busy days!
What can I substitute for ground beef in this recipe?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, ground turkey or chicken works well. For a vegetarian twist, try using plant-based ground meat or lentils. Both alternatives will still deliver delicious flavor!
How do I store leftovers?
Leftover Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven for the best texture, or microwave if you’re in a hurry.
Can I freeze the meatballs?
Yes! These meatballs freeze beautifully. Just let them cool completely, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to three months. Thaw and reheat when you’re ready to enjoy!
What sides pair well with these meatball subs?
These Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs are fantastic with crispy sweet potato fries or a fresh side salad. A cold craft beer or soda also complements the rich flavors perfectly!
Final Thoughts
Creating Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs is more than just cooking; it’s about bringing people together.
The aroma of sizzling bacon and savory meatballs fills the kitchen, creating an inviting atmosphere that makes everyone feel at home.
Each bite is a delightful explosion of flavors, from the smoky bacon to the rich bourbon-infused BBQ sauce.
These subs are perfect for game nights, family dinners, or simply treating yourself after a long day.
So roll up your sleeves, gather your loved ones, and enjoy the joy that comes from sharing this delicious meal together!
Delicious Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs made with savory meatballs, crispy bacon, and topped with melted cheddar cheese.
Ingredients
Scale
1 pound ground beef
1/2 pound bacon, chopped
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
1 large egg
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 cup BBQ sauce
1/4 cup bourbon
4 hoagie rolls
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 400°F.
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until crispy. Remove from the skillet and drain on paper towels, leaving about 1 tablespoon of bacon grease in the skillet.
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, cooked bacon, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined.
Form the mixture into meatballs, about 1.5 inches in diameter.
In the same skillet with the reserved bacon grease, sear the meatballs over medium-high heat until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
In a small bowl, mix the BBQ sauce and bourbon together. Pour the sauce over the meatballs in the skillet and simmer for an additional 10 minutes, until the meatballs are cooked through.
While the meatballs are simmering, slice the hoagie rolls and lightly toast them in the oven for about 5 minutes.
Once the meatballs are done, place them in the toasted hoagie rolls, top with shredded cheddar cheese, and return to the oven for an additional 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted.
Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious meatball subs!
Notes
For extra flavor, try adding sliced jalapeños or pickles to the subs.
You can also swap out the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
