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Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs Ready in 30 Minutes

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Bourbon BBQ Meatball Subs with Crispy Bacon are the ultimate comfort food. Juicy meatballs smothered in smoky bourbon BBQ sauce, topped with gooey cheddar cheese, crispy bacon, and served in toasted sub rolls, making every bite irresistible.

  • Author: Tina
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking, Frying
  • Cuisine: American

Ingredients

For the Chicken & Marinade:

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

Instructions

  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 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!

Notes

  • 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: 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.

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