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

These Bourbon BBQ Turkey Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs Ready in 30 Minutes are a game-changer for weeknight dinners or weekend gatherings. Combining the rich flavors of BBQ sauce with juicy meatballs and crispy Turkey Turkey Bacon, these subs offer a delightful twist on traditional burgers. Perfect for family meals or casual get-togethers, they promise to satisfy your cravings quickly and deliciously.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With only 30 minutes needed, these subs fit perfectly into your busy schedule.
• Flavor Explosion: The sweet-smoky taste of bourbon BBQ sauce enhances the savory meatballs, making every bite a treat.
• Versatile Meal Option: Ideal for lunch or dinner, these subs can be enjoyed at home or served at parties.
• Kid-Friendly: The combination of cheese and meatballs makes them a hit with kids and adults alike.
• Easy Cleanup: Fewer dishes mean more time enjoying your meal with family and friends.

Tools and Preparation

To make these Bourbon BBQ Turkey Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs, you’ll need a few essential tools for easy preparation.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• Skillet
• Baking sheet
• Baking spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Large mixing bowl: Allows you to easily combine ingredients without spilling.
• Skillet: Provides even cooking when browning the meatballs, ensuring they’re perfectly seared.
• Baking sheet: Ideal for toasting sub rolls evenly in the oven.

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 the Sauce and Toppings

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 cup bourbon BBQ sauce
• 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) to ensure it’s ready for toasting the sub rolls after preparing the meatballs.

Step 2: Prepare the Meatball Mixture

In a large bowl:
1. Combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Mix gently until all ingredients are just combined; avoid overmixing.

Step 3: Form the Meatballs

Shape the mixture into meatballs approximately 1.5 inches in diameter. You should have about 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 necessary.
3. Brown on all sides for about 5-7 minutes. They do not need to be fully cooked through at this point.

Step 5: Simmer with Sauce

Once browned:
1. Return all meatballs to the skillet.
2. Pour bourbon BBQ sauce over them.
3. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 6: Toast Sub Rolls

While the meatballs are simmering:
1. Slice sub rolls lengthwise without cutting completely through.
2. Place them on a baking sheet and toast in the preheated oven for about 5 minutes until golden brown.

Step 7: Assemble the Subs

For each toasted roll:
1. Place 4-5 meatballs inside.
2. Spoon extra sauce over them.
3. Top with ¼ cup shredded cheddar cheese and break two slices of crispy Turkey Turkey Bacon into pieces over each sub.

Step 8: Melt Cheese (Optional)

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

Step 9: Serve

Serve immediately with additional bourbon BBQ sauce on the side for dipping! Enjoy your flavorful 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 a delicious treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your meal experience.

Classic Presentation

• Serve the subs warm on a platter for a family-style meal.
• Add extra bourbon BBQ sauce in small bowls for dipping.

With Fresh Sides

• Pair with a crisp garden salad to balance the richness of the subs.
• Serve alongside sweet potato fries for a delightful contrast.

Fun with Toppings

• Offer sliced jalapeños for those who enjoy a spicy kick.
• Provide fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley for an aromatic touch.

Creative Plating

• Arrange the subs on a wooden board with colorful veggies for a rustic look.
• Garnish with sesame seeds or chopped scallions for added flair.

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

Perfecting your Bourbon BBQ Turkey Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs can make all the difference in flavor and presentation. Here are some tips to ensure your subs shine:

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh ground beef and high-quality turkey bacon enhance the flavors significantly.
• Don’t overmix meatballs: Gently combine the ingredients to keep the meatballs tender and juicy.
• Adjust seasoning: Taste your bourbon BBQ sauce and adjust spices as needed for personal preference.
• Toast sub rolls: A quick toast not only adds crunch but also prevents sogginess from the sauce.
• Layer strategically: Start with meatballs, then cheese, followed by turkey bacon when assembling to maximize flavor in every bite.

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

Completing your meal with side dishes can enhance the overall dining experience. Here are some fantastic options to enjoy alongside your subs:

1. Crispy Coleslaw: A refreshing cabbage slaw dressed in tangy vinaigrette adds crunch and acidity.
2. Potato Wedges: Seasoned with herbs, these golden wedges provide a hearty companion.
3. Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn brushed with butter complements the smoky flavors of the subs beautifully.
4. Baked Beans: A sweet and savory option that pairs well with barbecue flavors.
5. Macaroni Salad: Creamy and cool, this pasta salad balances out the richness of the meatball subs.
6. Pickle Platter: A variety of pickles offers a tangy crunch that enhances every bite of your sub.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Bourbon BBQ Turkey Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs, it’s essential to steer clear of common pitfalls that can affect the final dish.

• Wrong meat ratio: Using ground beef with too low a fat content can lead to dry meatballs. Aim for an 80/20 lean-to-fat ratio for juicy results.
• Overmixing the meat: Mixing the meatball mixture too vigorously can make them tough. Combine ingredients gently until just mixed to keep them tender.
• Skipping browning: Not browning the meatballs before simmering can result in less flavor. Browning adds a depth of taste, so don’t skip this step.
• Not preheating the oven: If you forget to preheat your oven, your subs won’t toast properly. Always preheat to ensure even cooking and a perfect golden finish.
• Ignoring cheese melting: For gooey cheese, bake the assembled subs for a couple of minutes after adding cheese. This step is crucial for that melty texture we all love.

 

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Bourbon BBQ Turkey Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Keep the meatballs and rolls separate if possible, to maintain freshness.

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

• Wrap individual subs tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months. Label them with the date.

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

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and reheat wrapped in foil for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel, heating for about 1-2 minutes or until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, turning frequently until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

How do I make Bourbon BBQ sauce at home?

You can create your own BBQ sauce by combining ketchup, brown sugar, vinegar, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika. Adjust to taste!

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes! Ground turkey is a great alternative that still provides excellent flavor and moisture when cooked correctly.

What sides pair well with Bourbon BBQ Turkey Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs Ready in 30 Minutes?

Consider serving them with coleslaw, sweet potato fries, or a fresh garden salad for balanced meals.

How long do these subs take to prepare?

These Bourbon BBQ Turkey Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs are quick and ready in just 30 minutes from start to finish.

Final Thoughts

Bourbon BBQ Turkey Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs are not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize them by adding different toppings or using various types of bread. Try this easy recipe today for a fun meal that will satisfy everyone!