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

These Sizzling Bourbon BBQ Turkey Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs Ready in 30 Minutes transform classic burger flavors into an irresistible handheld masterpiece. Perfect for game day, family dinners, or a quick weeknight meal, these subs are packed with juicy, seasoned meatballs simmered in a sweet-smoky sauce. The addition of melty cheese and crispy Turkey Turkey Bacon elevates the comfort food experience to new heights.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe is ready in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavor-Packed: The combination of bourbon BBQ sauce with spices creates a mouthwatering taste that everyone will love.
• Versatile Meal Option: These meatball subs can be served for lunch, dinner, or even as party appetizers.
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite toppings or adjust the spice level to suit your taste.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy these fun-to-eat subs that are messy in the best way!

Tools and Preparation

Before you dive into making these tasty Bourbon BBQ Turkey Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs, gather your tools. Having everything ready will streamline the cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skillet
• Mixing bowl
• Baking sheet
• Measuring spoons
• Tongs

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet: Essential for browning the meatballs evenly and creating that delicious crust.
• Mixing bowl: Provides ample space to combine ingredients without mess.
• Baking sheet: Perfect for toasting sub rolls and keeping them warm before serving.

Ingredients

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 Serving

• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 4 sub rolls
• 8 slices crispy Turkey Turkey Bacon

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

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure your sub rolls toast perfectly while you prepare the meatballs.

Step 2: Prepare the Meatball Mixture

In a large mixing bowl:
1. Combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
2. Mix gently until all ingredients are just combined; do not overmix.

Step 3: Shape the Meatballs

Form the mixture into meatballs about 1.5 inches in diameter. You should yield approximately 16–20 meatballs.

Step 4: Brown the Meatballs

In a large skillet over medium heat:
1. Heat olive oil until shimmering.
2. Add meatballs in a single layer; work in batches if needed.
3. Brown on all sides for about 5–7 minutes; they don’t need to be fully cooked through at this stage.

Step 5: Simmer with Sauce

Return all browned meatballs to the skillet. Pour bourbon BBQ sauce over them:
1. Reduce heat to low.
2. Simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring gently every few minutes.

Step 6: Toast the Sub Rolls

While the meatballs simmer:
1. Slice each sub roll lengthwise without cutting all the way through.
2. Place on a baking sheet and toast in the preheated oven for about 5 minutes or until golden brown.

Step 7: Assemble Your Subs

Once toasted:
1. Place 4–5 meatballs inside each roll.
2. Spoon extra sauce over them generously.
3. Top each sub with ¼ cup shredded cheddar cheese and break two slices of crispy Turkey Turkey Bacon on top if desired.

Step 8: Melt the Cheese (Optional)

For extra-melty cheese:
Return assembled subs to the oven for an additional 2–3 minutes until cheese is fully melted.

Step 9: Serve

Serve immediately with extra bourbon BBQ sauce on the side for dipping! Enjoy your delicious Bourbon BBQ Turkey Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs!

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 versatile. You can customize how you serve them for a fun and satisfying meal.

For Game Day Gatherings

• Serve with extra bourbon BBQ sauce for dipping, allowing guests to customize their flavor.
• Pair with a variety of chips or pretzels for a crunchy contrast.

As a Family Dinner

• Present the subs on a large platter, garnished with fresh parsley or green onions for a pop of color.
• Include a side salad to balance the hearty flavors of the meatball subs.

For Meal Prep

• Assemble the meatballs and sauce ahead of time, then just toast the rolls and assemble when ready to serve.
• Store any leftover meatballs in an airtight container for quick lunches throughout the week.

With Creative Toppings

• Offer toppings like sliced jalapeños, avocado, or pickles for added texture and flavor.
• Provide various cheese options, such as pepper jack or gouda, for those who enjoy experimenting with flavors.

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

Making these meatball subs perfect every time is easy with a few helpful tips. Follow these suggestions to elevate your dish.

• Use quality ingredients: Fresh ground beef and homemade breadcrumbs enhance flavor and texture.
• Don’t overmix: Mix the meat mixture gently to keep the meatballs tender and juicy.
• Monitor cooking times: Ensure meatballs are browned but not overcooked; they will finish cooking in the sauce.
• Customize sauces: Experiment with different flavors of BBQ sauce to find your favorite combination.
• Add veggies: Incorporate diced bell peppers or onions into the meat mixture for added nutrition and flavor.
• Toast rolls lightly: A quick toast adds a delightful crunch that contrasts well with the soft meatballs.

Best Side Dishes for Bourbon BBQ Turkey Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs Ready in 30 Minutes

Pairing side dishes with your Bourbon BBQ Turkey Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs enhances the entire meal experience. Here are some excellent choices:

1. Coleslaw: A creamy coleslaw adds crunch and freshness that complements the rich flavors of the subs.
2. Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy sweet potato fries provide sweetness that balances savory tastes nicely; bake or fry them until golden.
3. Corn on the Cob: Grilled corn on the cob brings smoky, sweet flavors to your plate; brush with butter for extra indulgence.
4. Potato Salad: A classic potato salad with herbs and spices offers a creamy side that pairs well with BBQ dishes.
5. Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal grilled vegetables add color and nutrition; zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus work well.
6. Mixed Green Salad: A simple salad with vinaigrette balances out heavy subs while providing vitamins; toss in cherry tomatoes and cucumbers for freshness.
7. Garlic Breadsticks: Soft garlic breadsticks can be a delightful addition to soak up extra sauce from your subs.
8. Pickle Platter: A selection of pickles adds tanginess that cuts through richness; consider dill pickles or spicy varieties for variety.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Bourbon BBQ Turkey Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs, it’s easy to stumble over a few common pitfalls. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Overmixing the meat: Mixing too much can make the meatballs tough. Instead, combine ingredients just until they’re mixed.
• Skipping the browning step: Not browning the meatballs can lead to bland flavor. Always brown them in a skillet before adding sauce for a richer taste.
• Using stale breadcrumbs: Stale breadcrumbs can affect the texture of the meatballs. Ensure your breadcrumbs are fresh for optimal results.
• Not toasting sub rolls: Skipping this step can result in soggy rolls. Toast them lightly to add crunch and enhance flavor.
• Ignoring simmer time: Not allowing enough simmering time in the sauce can prevent flavors from developing. Be patient and allow at least 10 minutes.
• Forgetting cheese melting: If you don’t return subs to the oven, you miss out on delicious melted cheese. Always heat them briefly after assembling.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store any leftover Bourbon BBQ Turkey Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

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

• Wrap each sub tightly with plastic wrap and then foil before placing them in a freezer-safe bag.
• These can be frozen for up to 2 months.

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

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place subs on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: For quick reheating, microwave each sub on medium power for about 1-2 minutes. Check for warmth before serving.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, covering with a lid, for approximately 5-7 minutes until heated evenly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Bourbon BBQ Turkey Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs:

How do I make Bourbon BBQ sauce from scratch?

You can create homemade bourbon BBQ sauce by mixing ketchup, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, and your choice of spices.

Can I use other ground meats?

Yes! You can substitute ground turkey or chicken if you prefer leaner options without changing the recipe’s essence.

How long does it take to prepare these meatball subs?

With prep and cooking time combined, you should be ready to enjoy these delicious subs in about 30-40 minutes.

What should I serve with Bourbon BBQ Turkey Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs Ready in 30 Minutes?

Pair these subs with a side of crispy fries or a fresh salad for a complete meal that everyone will love.

Can leftovers be frozen?

Absolutely! Leftover meatball subs freeze well, just remember to wrap them securely before freezing.

Final Thoughts

These Bourbon BBQ Turkey Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs are not only quick to prepare but also packed with flavor and comfort. Feel free to customize them by adding different toppings or using various cheeses. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings!