Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe combines all the best flavors: savory, smoky, and just the right amount of sweetness from the bourbon BBQ sauce. The meatballs are perfectly seasoned and cooked until juicy, and the crispy bacon adds a satisfying crunch to every bite. The melted cheddar cheese and warm toasted sub rolls complete this delicious sandwich, making it a hearty and satisfying meal that everyone will love. Plus, it’s easy to make and perfect for feeding a crowd!

Ingredients

1 lb ground beef
1 cup breadcrumbs
1 egg
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 cup bourbon BBQ sauce
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
4 sub rolls
8 slices crispy bacon

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Prepare the Meatballs:

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well until everything is evenly combined.
Roll the mixture into meatballs, about 1.5 inches in diameter.

2. Brown the Meatballs:

Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs to the skillet and brown them on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
Once the meatballs are browned, pour the bourbon BBQ sauce over them. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the meatballs are cooked through and the sauce has thickened.

3. Toast the Sub Rolls:

While the meatballs are simmering, slice the sub rolls and place them on a baking sheet.
Toast the rolls in the oven for about 5 minutes or until golden brown and slightly crispy.

4. Assemble the Subs:

Once the meatballs are cooked, place them inside the toasted sub rolls.
Top with shredded cheddar cheese, then pile on the crispy bacon.
For an extra touch, drizzle with a little more bourbon BBQ sauce if desired.

5. Serve and Enjoy:

Serve the meatball subs hot with a side of extra BBQ sauce for dipping. Enjoy!

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes

Variations

Spicy Kick: Add some chopped jalapeños or hot sauce to the bourbon BBQ sauce for an extra spicy version of this sandwich.
Cheese Options: Try using mozzarella, provolone, or pepper jack cheese for a different twist on the flavor.
Turkey Meatballs: For a lighter version, substitute ground turkey for the beef in the meatballs.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Leftover meatballs and BBQ sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat the meatballs and sauce in the microwave or on the stovetop until hot. Toast the rolls fresh before serving.

FAQs

1. Can I make the meatballs ahead of time?

Yes! You can make the meatballs and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before cooking. You can also freeze the uncooked meatballs for up to 3 months.

2. Can I use a different type of meat for the meatballs?

Absolutely! You can substitute the ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or pork if you prefer.

3. Can I use store-bought BBQ sauce?

Yes, feel free to use your favorite store-bought BBQ sauce if you’re short on time. The bourbon BBQ sauce adds a special touch, but store-bought works just as well!

4. How do I make the bacon crispy?

To make crispy bacon, cook it in a skillet over medium heat or bake it in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-20 minutes until crispy.

5. Can I make these subs with a different type of bread?

Yes, you can use any type of bread you prefer, such as hoagie rolls, baguettes, or even ciabatta.

6. Can I make this dish without frying the meatballs?

Yes, you can bake the meatballs at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes until they are fully cooked, then simmer them in the bourbon BBQ sauce.

7. Can I add vegetables to the meatball mixture?

Definitely! You can add finely chopped vegetables like onions, bell peppers, or zucchini to the meatball mixture for extra flavor and nutrition.

8. Can I freeze the assembled subs?

You can freeze the cooked meatballs and sauce separately and store them in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Assemble the subs fresh after thawing.

9. Can I make these subs without the bacon?

Yes, if you prefer, you can leave out the bacon or substitute with another crispy element like fried onions or prosciutto.

10. How do I know when the meatballs are cooked through?

The meatballs should be golden brown on the outside, and the internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) when checked with a meat thermometer.

Conclusion

These Bourbon BBQ Meatball Subs with Crispy Bacon are the ultimate comfort food, combining juicy, flavorful meatballs with smoky bourbon BBQ sauce, cheesy goodness, and crispy bacon—all served in a soft, toasted roll. Whether you’re serving these for a family meal or a casual get-together, they’re sure to impress and satisfy every time! Enjoy these delicious subs with your favorite side dishes for a perfect meal.