There's something magical about the first whiff of Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs filling the kitchen. As the savory aroma wafts through the air, it's hard to resist the temptation to dive in. This recipe merges classic comfort food with a fun twist, bringing together juicy meatballs, crispy bacon, and a smoky, bourbon-infused BBQ sauce that will have your taste buds singing. Perfect for game day gatherings or a cozy family dinner, these subs are not only a crowd-pleaser but also incredibly quick to whip up. With just a handful of ingredients, you can bring some serious flavor to the table. Are you ready to discover how to create this mouthwatering masterpiece?

Why Are These Meatball Subs Irresistible?

Savory Satisfaction: Each bite of these Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs is a flavor explosion, combining juicy meatballs with smoky bacon and a rich bourbon BBQ glaze that you won’t forget.

Quick & Easy: With minimal prep time, these mouthwatering subs are perfect for busy weeknights or weekend game day festivities.

Crowd-Pleaser: Whether hosting friends or enjoying a family dinner, everyone will rave about these delectable sandwiches, making them a guaranteed hit.

Customizable: Feel free to switch up the ingredients! You can try turkey instead of beef or swap out the bourbon for apple cider for a family-friendly version, just like in our One Pot Cheeseburger recipe.

Texture Heaven: Imagine biting into a soft toasted roll filled with gooey cheddar, crispy bacon, and tender meatballs; it’s a feast for your senses!

Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs Ingredients

For the Meatballs

Ground Beef – Choose an 80/20 blend for optimal tenderness and flavor.
Breadcrumbs – Use these as a gentle binder to maintain meatball tenderness.
Grated Parmesan Cheese – Adds a subtle umami boost to enhance the flavor profile.
Egg – Helps bind all the ingredients together for a structured meatball.
Chopped Onion – Provides mild sweetness and a crunch; caramelizes during cooking.
Minced Garlic – Infuses warmth and depth, balancing the sweetness of the BBQ sauce.
Salt and Pepper – Basic seasonings that awaken the flavors of all the ingredients.

For the Bourbon BBQ Sauce

Bourbon – The soul of the sauce, offering rich, smoky notes.
BBQ Sauce – A sweet-and-tangy glaze that clings beautifully to meatballs.

For Assembly

Crispy Bacon – Adds savory crunch, reminiscent of your favorite cheeseburger.
Shredded Cheddar Cheese – Melts into gooey bliss atop the meatballs.
Sub Rolls – Opt for soft yet sturdy rolls; toast lightly for added texture.

Optional Toppings

Sliced Pickles – Add brightness and a refreshing crunch.
Crisp Lettuce – Introduces a cool, crunchy contrast.
Fresh Tomatoes – Provide a juicy burst of freshness to each bite.

These Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs are not just a meal; they’re a joyous experience wrapped in a roll!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This temperature is essential for ensuring your Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs are cooked perfectly. While the oven warms up, gather your ingredients and get ready to assemble the delicious meatballs that will bring this dish to life.

Step 2: Prepare the Meatball Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, egg, chopped onion, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Use your hands to mix until just combined—be careful not to overwork the mixture. This step is crucial to ensure the meatballs stay tender and juicy once cooked.

Step 3: Form the Meatballs
With your mixture ready, shape it into 1-inch meatballs, aiming for about 18–20 pieces. This size ensures a perfect fit for your sub rolls, allowing for a balanced bite of meat, cheese, and sauce. Place the meatballs on a parchment-lined baking sheet to prevent sticking.

Step 4: Brown the Meatballs
In a large skillet, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the meatballs, browning them for about 5-7 minutes. Turn them occasionally until they achieve a beautiful golden crust on all sides; this step enhances their flavor and locks in the juices for your Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs.

Step 5: Reserve and Deglaze
Once the meatballs are browned, carefully remove them from the skillet and set them aside on a plate, leaving the drippings in the pan. These flavorful drippings are essential as they will help build the sauce. Add the bourbon to the skillet, allowing it to reduce for about 1 minute, concentrating its flavor.

Step 6: Create the BBQ Sauce
After reducing the bourbon, stir in your favorite BBQ sauce into the skillet. Let the mixture simmer for a few minutes until it thickens slightly. This bourbon-infused sauce will coat the meatballs beautifully, adding a smoky and sweet dimension to your Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs.

Step 7: Coat the Meatballs
Return the browned meatballs to the skillet, gently tossing them in the sauce until they are well coated. At this stage, the meatballs should be glistening with the savory BBQ mixture, ready for the next step in your flavorful journey. Allow them to simmer together for an extra 2-3 minutes to meld the flavors.

Step 8: Bake the Meatballs
Carefully transfer the skillet to your preheated oven and bake the meatballs for 10-12 minutes or until they are cooked through (internal temperature should reach 160°F/71°C). This final cooking step ensures the meatballs are juicy while allowing them to soak up all the rich flavors from the sauce.

Step 9: Prepare the Sub Rolls
While the meatballs are baking, slice the sub rolls open lengthwise and place them cut-side up on a baking sheet. Toasting them lightly in the oven for about 5 minutes creates a sturdy base that will hold all the delicious toppings without getting soggy, ensuring your Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs are enjoyable to the last bite.

Step 10: Assemble the Subs
Once the meatballs are ready, remove them from the oven, and fill each toasted sub roll with a generous amount of meatballs. Top them with crumbled crispy bacon and a sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese. The combination of flavors and textures promises to make each bite unforgettable.

Step 11: Melt the Cheese
Return the filled subs to the oven and bake just until the cheddar cheese melts and becomes bubbly, about 2-3 minutes. The melty cheese will bring everything together, creating a comforting and satisfying experience with your Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs.

Step 12: Add Optional Toppings and Serve
Finally, if desired, add your choice of optional toppings like sliced pickles, crisp lettuce, and fresh tomatoes to each sub. Serve warm, allowing everyone to indulge in the deliciousness of these Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs, making any meal a special occasion.

What to Serve with Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs

Looking to complete your meal with delightful sides that complement the rich flavors of these savory subs?

Crisp Coleslaw: A refreshing side that adds crunch and balances the savory flavors, providing a delightful contrast to the hearty subs. The coolness of the slaw enhances every bite.
Garlic Fries: Crispy on the outside and tender inside, these seasoned fries are a perfect finger-food companion that brings a much-loved comfort food vibe to your meal.
Side Salad: Fresh greens with a tangy vinaigrette brighten the plate, cutting through the richness of the meatball subs for a well-rounded dining experience.
Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet, charred corn lends a smoky flavor that ties beautifully with the bourbon BBQ, offering a sweet and tender contrast to the meatballs.
Potato Chips: Simple yet satisfying, crispy potato chips are a delightful way to add texture, perfect for munching alongside your Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs.
Beer or Iced Tea: Pair with a refreshing craft beer or a chilled iced tea to wash down the rich flavors, rounding out the meal perfectly.

How to Store and Freeze Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs

Room Temperature: These Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs are best eaten fresh. If left out, consume within 2 hours to ensure food safety.
Fridge: Wrap leftovers tightly in foil or place them in an airtight container. They can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 days, ensuring the flavors remain intact.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the meatballs in the BBQ sauce separately in airtight containers or freezer bags. They'll last for 2-3 months—just thaw and reheat when you're ready for another delicious meal.
Reheating: To reheat, place the meatballs or subs in a 350°F oven for 10-12 minutes until warmed through. For a moist texture, include a small dish of water in the oven while reheating.

Make Ahead Options

Preparing your Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs in advance is a fantastic way to save time during busy weeknights or game day gatherings! You can mix and shape the meatballs, then cover and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours. Additionally, the bourbon BBQ sauce can be prepared and stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, ensuring that the flavors meld beautifully. To maintain quality, remember to store everything separately until you're ready to cook. When you’re ready to enjoy your delicious subs, simply bake the meatballs in the sauce as instructed, assemble them with the rolls, and melt the cheese for that gooey perfection that everyone will love!

Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs Variations

Feel free to get creative and customize your Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs with these delightful twists!

Turkey Alternative: Substitute ground turkey for a lighter meatball option that's just as flavorful.
Pork Perfection: Try ground pork for a richer taste; it adds a lovely juiciness to your subs.
Dairy-Free Delight: Switch the cheddar cheese with a dairy-free alternative to accommodate lactose-intolerant friends.
Non-Alcoholic Option: Use apple cider or vegetable broth in place of bourbon for a family-friendly version, keeping all the flavor intact.
Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or your favorite hot sauce to the BBQ glaze for an extra layer of heat and excitement.
Crunch Factor: Include coleslaw as a topping for added crunch and a fresh contrast to the rich meatballs.
Herb Infusion: Mix in freshly chopped herbs like parsley or cilantro into the meatball mix for a burst of freshness.
Toast the Rolls: For an extra crunch, try toasting your sub rolls on a grill or under the broiler for a few minutes before assembly; it elevates the eating experience.

Each of these variations offers a chance to personalize your Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs and make them uniquely yours. If you’re curious about more comfort food ideas, check out our delicious One Pot Cheeseburger for some inspiration!

Expert Tips for Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs

Don’t Over-Mix: Gently combine the meatball ingredients to prevent dense, rubbery meatballs. Aim for a light hand while mixing!
Brown Carefully: Brown the meatballs just until crispy—they’ll finish cooking in the oven. This keeps them juicy and flavorful for the Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs.
Moisture Matters: Place a dish of water in the oven when reheating leftovers. This can help maintain the moisture in your meatballs, ensuring they don't dry out.
Taste the Sauce: Adjust the BBQ sauce to your liking! If you prefer it spicier, add some heat with jalapeños or your favorite hot sauce, amplifying the flavor of your Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs.
Toast the Rolls: Lightly toasting the sub rolls makes them sturdier and prevents sogginess from the sauce. Enjoy a crisp bite throughout!

Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs Recipe FAQs

What type of ground beef should I use for these meatballs?
Absolutely! For the best flavor and texture, choose an 80/20 blend of ground beef. This ratio ensures your meatballs are juicy and full of flavor. If you prefer a leaner option, you can try a 90/10 blend, just be cautious—leaner beef may lead to drier meatballs.

How long can I store these subs in the fridge?
Very! You can wrap any leftover Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs tightly in foil or transfer them to an airtight container. They’ll stay fresh in the fridge for about 2 days. Just remember to reheat them gently in a 350°F oven for 10-12 minutes which will keep them delicious!

Can I freeze the meatballs? If so, how?
Absolutely! To freeze your Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs, I recommend freezing the meatballs separately in their BBQ sauce. Store them in airtight containers or freezer bags, making sure to remove excess air. They can last for 2-3 months in the freezer. When you're ready to enjoy, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 10-12 minutes.

What if my meatballs turn out dry?
Oh no! If you find your meatballs are on the dry side, there are a few reasons and fixes. First, avoid over-mixing the meatball ingredients; a gentle hand is key to keeping them moist. If you've already baked them and they're dry, try serving them with extra BBQ sauce to add moisture back into each bite. You could also consider adding a bit of milk or another egg in future batches to boost moisture.

Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Very! If you’re serving these Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs to guests with dietary restrictions, be sure to check the BBQ sauce and other ingredients for allergens. Many BBQ sauces contain gluten or high-fructose corn syrup. You can easily make them gluten-free by using gluten-free breadcrumbs and BBQ sauce. For a healthier option, you might also use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for lighter subs.