As I took a bite of these Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs, the smoky sweetness of the barbecue sauce wrapped around a juicy meatball transported me straight to an indulgent backyard barbecue. This classic comfort food takes the essence of a cheeseburger and morphs it into a handheld masterpiece, perfect for those nights when you crave something hearty yet easily devoured. Featuring succulent meatballs, crispy bacon, and melty cheddar all nestled in a toasted sub roll, these cheeseburger meatball subs are a crowd-pleaser that you can whip up in just 30 minutes! Plus, I love how easy it is to customize them—whether you want a lighter version or a spicy twist, you can make it your own. Ready to sink your teeth into these delightful creations? Let’s get cooking!
Why Will You Love These Subs?
Easy Preparation: These Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs can be ready in just 30 minutes, making them an ideal choice for busy weeknights or spontaneous gatherings.
Flavor Explosion: The irresistible combination of smoky bourbon BBQ sauce, crispy bacon, and melting cheddar creates a symphony of flavors that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
Customizable Delight: Whether you’re craving a lighter twist or want to spice things up with a spicy version, this recipe offers endless variations to fit your taste.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Ideal for game day, family dinners, or casual picnics, these subs are guaranteed to please crowds of all ages, just like my favorite Garlic Parmesan Cheeseburger recipe!
Satisfying Textures: Enjoy the crunchy exterior of the bun combined with the tender, juicy meatballs for a satisfying bite in every mouthful.
With these Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs, you’ll not only satisfy your cravings but also impress your guests with a gourmet twist on a classic favorite!
Cheeseburger Meatball Ingredients
For the Meatballs
• Ground Beef (80/20) – Provides the main flavor and juiciness for the meatballs, ensuring a hearty cheeseburger experience; consider substituting with ground turkey for a leaner option.
• Breadcrumbs – Helps absorb moisture and binds the meatball mixture together; crushed crackers can be substituted if desired.
• Egg – Acts as a binder that holds the meatballs’ structure together; no substitutions are suggested for this ingredient.
• Bourbon BBQ Sauce – Infuses the meatballs with a sweet and smoky flavor; feel free to use store-bought or make your own with bourbon for an extra kick.
For the Toppings
• Cheddar Cheese – Adds classic cheeseburger flavor that melts beautifully; sharp cheddar provides additional depth and complexity.
• Bacon – Introduces a crunchy texture and deep smoky flavor, essential for achieving that satisfying bite; thick-cut bacon crisps up nicely without getting soggy.
For the Rolls
• Sub Rolls (Italian or French) – Offer structure and, when toasted, help prevent the subs from becoming soggy; ensure they are fresh for the best experience.
Embrace the ultimate indulgence with these cheeseburger meatball subs, loaded with flavors that will tantalize your taste buds!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cheeseburger Meatball Subs
Step 1: Prepare Meatballs
In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 pound of ground beef, 1 cup of breadcrumbs, 1 beaten egg, and your choice of seasonings such as salt and pepper. Gently mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix, which can lead to dense meatballs. Shape the mixture into 1.5-inch meatballs, making about 12 to 15 meatballs, and set them aside.
Step 2: Chill Meatballs
Place the formed meatballs on a plate or baking sheet and refrigerate for 30 minutes. This step helps the flavors meld and ensures that the meatballs maintain their shape while cooking. While the meatballs chill, you can prepare your toppings and gather your ingredients for the next steps.
Step 3: Brown Meatballs
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and lightly coat it with cooking oil. Once the skillet is hot, add the meatballs in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Sear the meatballs for about 4-5 minutes, turning them occasionally until they’re well-browned on all sides, achieving a nice crispy exterior.
Step 4: Simmer in Sauce
Reduce the heat to medium-low and carefully pour in 1 cup of bourbon BBQ sauce over the browned meatballs. Cover the skillet and allow the meatballs to simmer for 10 minutes, turning them gently until they are cooked through and fully coated in the sauce. You’ll know they’re ready when they reach an internal temperature of 160°F.
Step 5: Toast Rolls
While the meatballs are simmering, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Slice your sub rolls in half and place them on a baking sheet, cut side up. Toast them in the oven for about 5-7 minutes, or until they are golden brown. This will create a barrier against the sauce and enhance the flavor of your cheeseburger meatball subs.
Step 6: Assemble Subs
Remove the toasted rolls from the oven and carefully spoon the saucy meatballs into each roll. Top each meatball with a generous amount of shredded cheddar cheese and crispy bacon strips. If you prefer your cheese extra melty, you can place the assembled subs back under the broiler for 1-2 minutes until the cheese is bubbly.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Transfer your loaded cheeseburger meatball subs to a serving platter. These mouthwatering creations are perfect for enjoying right away. The combination of juicy meatballs, smoky BBQ sauce, and melty cheese inside perfectly toasted rolls will have everyone coming back for seconds!
What to Serve with Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs
Elevate your meal with delicious sides that complement the rich flavors of your meatball subs and create a satisfying dining experience.
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Creamy Coleslaw: This crunchy, tangy side cuts through the richness of the meatballs, adding a refreshing contrast that balances every bite.
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Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy and slightly sweet, these fries provide the perfect textural contrast to the savory subs while keeping the comfort-food vibe alive.
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Garlic Bread: The buttery, garlicky notes perfectly enhance the flavors of the BBQ sauce, while its crispiness contrasts beautifully with the tender meatballs.
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Simple Green Salad: A refreshing salad with a zesty vinaigrette offers a light touch that complements the hearty nature of the meatball subs, making for a well-rounded meal.
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Pickle Spear: A tangy pickle adds a pop of acidity that enhances the flavors of the subs, elevating your bites with an enjoyable crunch.
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Beer Pairing: A cold, crisp lager or amber beer beautifully complements the smoky BBQ flavors, making your dining experience even more delightful.
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Mini Cheesecake Bites: For dessert, these rich treats are a sweet finish after flavorful subs, balancing the savory flavors with a creamy and indulgent finale.
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Grilled Corn on the Cob: The smoky sweetness of grilled corn creates a delightful addition that pairs fantastically with the bourbon BBQ taste.
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Fruit Salad: A vibrant mix of seasonal fruits can add a refreshing sweetness to your meal, cleansing the palate perfectly between bites of the savory subs.
Expert Tips for Cheeseburger Meatball Subs
Avoid Overmixing: Don’t overwork the meatball mixture! Gently combine the ingredients to keep your meatballs tender and prevent them from becoming dense.
Preheat the Skillet: Always ensure your skillet is preheated before browning the meatballs. This will help you achieve a perfect sear without constantly moving them.
Chill for Shape: Refrigerate the formed meatballs before cooking. This aids in keeping their shape during cooking and enhancing the flavor.
Toast Your Rolls: Make sure to toast the sub rolls to prevent sogginess. This step adds crucial texture and keeps the sauce from soaking through.
Experiment with Variations: Don’t hesitate to try different flavors! Substitute the bourbon BBQ sauce for a spicy version or add toppings like mushrooms for a hearty twist.
Deglaze for Flavor: After browning the meatballs, consider deglazing the pan with a splash of bourbon for an extra layer of flavor in your sauce.
Make Ahead Options
These Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the meatballs up to 24 hours in advance by mixing the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, and seasonings. Form them into balls and refrigerate (this keeps them flavorful and helps maintain their shape). Additionally, you can cook the bacon ahead and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, brown the chilled meatballs and simmer them in the BBQ sauce as directed, then simply assemble your subs with the prepped ingredients and enjoy delicious, time-saving results that are just as delightful as freshly made!
How to Store and Freeze Cheeseburger Meatball Subs
Fridge: Store leftover cheeseburger meatball subs in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This helps retain their juicy flavor and texture, but the rolls may soften.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze assembled subs by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil. They will keep well for up to 3 months without losing flavor.
Reheating: To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge, then place in a 350°F oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through and cheese is bubbly.
Meal Prep Tip: If you want to make ahead, prepare meatballs and sauce separately, store in the fridge for up to 1 day, and assemble fresh subs before serving!
Cheeseburger Meatball Variations
Feel free to adapt these delicious Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs to suit your palate and dietary needs!
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Spicy Kick: Add cayenne pepper to your meatball mix or drizzle spicy BBQ sauce for an extra layer of heat. It’s a great way to ignite those taste buds!
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Mushroom & Swiss: Swap in sautéed mushrooms and top with Swiss cheese for a decadent and earthy twist. The rich flavors blend beautifully with the BBQ sauce.
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Hawaiian Bliss: Mix finely chopped pineapple into your meatball mix and grill some pineapple slices to add a hint of sweetness. This tropical twist is sure to bring a smile!
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Vegetarian Delight: Use plant-based ground beef in place of meat and opt for veggie-friendly bacon to create a comforting yet guilt-free version. Even non-vegetarians will love it!
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Gluten-Free: Substitute breadcrumbs with crushed gluten-free crackers for a tender meatball that everyone can enjoy. This will keep the texture rich without sacrificing flavor!
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Lower-Carb Option: Replace the sub rolls with lettuce wraps or zucchini halves for a fresh, lighter take that still holds all those delicious flavors!
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Smoky BBQ Sauce: Experiment with a homemade smoky bourbon BBQ sauce by blending your favorite BBQ with a hint of mesquite or hickory smoke. It adds an unforgettable depth!
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Cheesy Variations: Try different cheese varieties, like pepper jack for a spicy kick or gouda for a smoky flavor. Cheese lovers will appreciate the creativity!
For a more classic twist, don’t miss out on these Garlic Parmesan Cheeseburger options, which have their own delightful variations! Choose your favorite alteration and savor every bite!
Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs Recipe FAQs
What kind of ground beef should I use for the meatballs?
I recommend using ground beef that is 80/20 for the best flavor and juiciness in your meatballs. This blend ensures a hearty cheeseburger experience. If you’re looking for a leaner option, substitute with ground turkey while adding a splash of olive oil for moisture.
How do I store leftover cheeseburger meatball subs?
Store leftover cheeseburger meatball subs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just keep in mind that the sub rolls may become soft over time, so it’s best to consume them sooner rather than later!
Can I freeze these subs?
Absolutely! To freeze your cheeseburger meatball subs, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil. They will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw them overnight in the fridge, then reheat in a 350°F oven for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
What should I do if my meatballs fall apart while cooking?
If your meatballs fall apart, don’t worry! Normally, this happens if they’re overmixed or not chilled enough. For best results, ensure you gently mix the ingredients without overworking the meat, and chill the formed meatballs for at least 30 minutes before cooking to help them maintain their shape.
Can I make these cheeseburger meatball subs gluten-free?
Yes, you can! Simply substitute regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives. There are also gluten-free burger sauces available that can be used to keep the BBQ flavor intact, making these subs safe for those avoiding gluten.
How do I add a spicy kick to my meatballs?
If you’d like to spice things up, add cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños to the meatball mixture. You can also substitute the bourbon BBQ sauce with a spicy BBQ sauce to bring extra heat while still maintaining that delicious cheeseburger flavor!
Cheeseburger Meatball Subs Loaded with Bourbon BBQ Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, and seasonings. Mix gently and shape into 1.5-inch meatballs.
- Refrigerate meatballs for 30 minutes to help them hold shape.
- Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and sear the meatballs for about 4-5 minutes until browned.
- Add bourbon BBQ sauce to the skillet, cover, and simmer for 10 minutes until cooked through.
- Preheat oven to 350°F. Slice sub rolls and toast for 5-7 minutes until golden brown.
- Assemble the subs with meatballs, cheese, and bacon. Broil for an additional 1-2 minutes if desired.
- Serve immediately on a platter.
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