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

If you’re looking for a fun and delicious meal that brings the whole family together, these Bourbon BBQ Turkey Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs Ready in 30 Minutes are just what you need! This recipe takes all the classic flavors of a burger and combines them into an easy-to-make sub that’s perfect for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings. Plus, who can resist the combination of juicy meatballs drenched in sweet, tangy BBQ sauce topped with melty cheese and crispy Turkey Turkey Bacon? It’s a comfort food experience that feels special without being overly complicated.

These subs are not only quick to whip up, but they also pack a whole lot of flavor. They’re sure to please both kids and adults alike! So, roll up your sleeves and let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 30 minutes from start to finish, this recipe is perfect for those hectic nights when you want something tasty without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Family-Friendly: These meatball subs are a hit with everyone—from picky eaters to adventurous foodies—making dinner time stress-free.
• Flavor-Packed: The combination of bourbon BBQ sauce with savory meatballs creates an explosion of flavors that will have your taste buds dancing.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prep the meatballs earlier in the day and refrigerate them. When it’s meal time, simply heat them up and assemble your subs!
• Customizable: Feel free to mix things up! You can easily swap out ingredients based on your family’s preferences or what you have on hand.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These are simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully to create mouthwatering Bourbon BBQ Turkey Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs. Let’s gather what we need!

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 Turkey Bacon

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Here are some fun variations to try:

• Swap the protein: Instead of ground beef, use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
• Change up the cheese: Try different types of cheese like pepper jack for a spicy kick or mozzarella for a milder flavor.
• Add veggies: Sneak in some chopped bell peppers or onions into the meatball mixture for extra nutrition.
• Go gluten-free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and sub rolls to make this dish suitable for gluten-sensitive diets.

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

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This step ensures that your sub rolls will toast perfectly while your meatballs simmer in delicious sauce.

Step 2: Prepare the Meatball Mixture

In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined. This careful mixing prevents overworking the meat, keeping your meatballs tender.

Step 3: Form the Meatballs

Form the mixture into meatballs about 1.5 inches in diameter (you should aim for approximately 16-20 meatballs). Making them uniform in size helps them cook 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. Brown them on all sides for about 5-7 minutes total. This step adds incredible depth of flavor through caramelization.

Step 5: Simmer with Sauce

Once all meatballs are browned, return them all to the skillet. Pour the bourbon BBQ sauce over the meatballs and reduce heat to low. Simmer for 10 minutes while occasionally stirring gently. Letting them simmer allows those flavorful juices to soak into each meatball.

Step 6: Toast the Sub Rolls

While the meatballs simmer, slice your sub rolls lengthwise without cutting all the way through. Place them on a baking sheet and toast in the preheated oven for about 5 minutes until golden brown. Toasting brings out their crunchiness which pairs perfectly with soft meatballs.

Step 7: Assemble Your Subs

Place 4-5 meatballs inside each toasted roll and spoon extra sauce over them. Top each sub with ¼ cup shredded cheddar cheese and break two slices of crispy Turkey Turkey Bacon if desired.

Step 8: Melt That Cheese!

For extra-melty cheese goodness, return the assembled subs to the oven for another 2-3 minutes until cheese is fully melted. This final touch makes everything ooey-gooey delicious!

Step 9: Serve and Enjoy!

Serve immediately with additional bourbon BBQ sauce on the side for dipping. Gather around with friends or family—these Bourbon BBQ Turkey Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs are sure to be a crowd-pleaser!

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

Creating these Bourbon BBQ Turkey Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs is a breeze with a few handy tips!

• Use high-quality ground beef: Choosing an 80/20 lean-to-fat ratio ensures juicy and flavorful meatballs that won’t dry out during cooking.

• Don’t overmix the meatball mixture: Gently combine the ingredients to keep your meatballs tender and avoid a dense texture.

• Adjust the BBQ sauce to taste: If you prefer a sweeter or spicier flavor, feel free to customize the bourbon BBQ sauce to match your palate—just add a little honey or hot sauce!

• Toast the rolls just right: Keeping an eye on your sub rolls while they toast will help achieve that perfect golden-brown color without burning, enhancing both flavor and texture.

• Double up on cheese if you’re a fan: If you love cheesy goodness, don’t hesitate to add extra shredded cheddar on top before melting—it makes for an even richer bite!

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

These meatball subs are not only delicious but also visually appealing when presented well. Here are some fun ideas for serving them up!

Garnishes

• Fresh parsley or cilantro: A sprinkle of chopped herbs adds a pop of color and freshness that brightens each bite.

• Pickled jalapeños: For those who enjoy a spicy kick, adding pickled jalapeños can enhance the flavor profile and contrast beautifully with the richness of the subs.

Side Dishes

• Sweet potato fries: Crispy sweet potato fries offer a slightly sweet complement to the savory flavors of the subs, making them an excellent pairing.

• Coleslaw: A refreshing side of coleslaw balances out the richness of the meatballs and adds crunch, making every bite satisfying.

• Corn on the cob: Grilled or boiled corn on the cob drizzled with lime juice and sprinkled with chili powder creates a vibrant side that’s perfect for summer gatherings.

• Mixed green salad: A light mixed green salad with vinaigrette can add a refreshing element to your meal, keeping things balanced and healthy alongside those hearty subs.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re all set to impress family and friends with your culinary skills! Enjoy your Bourbon BBQ Turkey Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs!

Make Ahead and Storage

Getting a head start on meal prep is easy with these Bourbon BBQ Turkey Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs. They can be made ahead of time, making weeknight dinners a breeze!

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover meatball subs in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• Enjoy them within 3-4 days for the best flavor and texture.
• If you have extra sauce, keep it separate to maintain the sub’s integrity.

Freezing

• To freeze, assemble the meatballs and sauce but do not put them in the sub rolls.
• Place cooled meatballs in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months.
• When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat the meatballs in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through.
• If using the microwave, place meatballs on a microwave-safe plate covered with a damp paper towel and heat for 1-2 minutes.
• Toast sub rolls just before serving for that perfect crunch!

FAQs

Here are some common questions regarding this delicious recipe.

Can I make Bourbon BBQ Turkey Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs in advance?

Absolutely! You can prepare the meatballs ahead of time and store them as described above. This makes for an easy meal on busy nights.

What sides go well with Bourbon BBQ Turkey Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs?

These subs pair great with coleslaw, sweet potato fries, or a simple green salad for a balanced meal.

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef in the recipe?

Yes! Ground turkey is an excellent alternative that will still provide juicy meatballs without sacrificing flavor.

How long does it take to prepare Bourbon BBQ Turkey Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs?

The entire process takes about 30 minutes from start to finish, making it a quick and satisfying meal option!

Is there a vegetarian option for this recipe?

Certainly! You can substitute the ground beef with plant-based ground meat. Just ensure your BBQ sauce is also vegetarian-friendly!

Final Thoughts

These Bourbon BBQ Turkey Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs are not just a meal; they’re an experience. With their rich flavors and comforting textures, they’re sure to become a favorite at your table. I hope you enjoy making these as much as I do and that they bring smiles to your family! Happy cooking!