Introduction
Sizzling Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs are an unapologetically rich and satisfying comfort-food creation. This recipe takes everything people love about a classic bacon cheeseburger and transforms it into juicy meatballs coated in a smoky bourbon barbecue sauce, then tucked into toasted sub rolls with melted cheese. I like making these subs when I want something fun, hearty, and guaranteed to impress. The bourbon barbecue sauce adds depth and sweetness, while the bacon brings a smoky crunch that balances the richness of the meatballs and cheese. These subs are filling, flavorful, and perfect for casual gatherings, game days, or indulgent family dinners.
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Sizzling Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs: A Bold and Indulgent Sandwich
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 subs
- Diet: Low Calorie
Description
Sizzling Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs are indulgent sandwiches loaded with juicy beef meatballs, smoky bacon, melted cheese, and a sweet bourbon BBQ glaze, all tucked into toasted sub rolls.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 cup bourbon BBQ sauce
- 1/4 cup bourbon (optional)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 4 sub rolls
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons chopped pickles (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika.
- Form mixture into evenly sized meatballs.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and brown meatballs on all sides.
- Transfer meatballs to a baking dish.
- Mix BBQ sauce with bourbon (if using) and pour over meatballs.
- Bake uncovered for 15–20 minutes until meatballs are fully cooked.
- Toast sub rolls lightly.
- Fill rolls with meatballs and sauce, top with bacon and shredded cheese.
- Return assembled subs to oven for 5 minutes until cheese melts.
- Add pickles if desired and serve hot.
Notes
- Use your favorite BBQ sauce for flavor customization.
- Meatballs can be made ahead and reheated.
- Great for game day or casual gatherings.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe delivers bold flavor, generous portions, and serious comfort-food appeal. It is easy to prepare, incredibly satisfying, and ideal for feeding a crowd with minimal effort.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Ground beef
Ground beef forms the base of the meatballs, providing rich, juicy flavor similar to a classic cheeseburger.
Breadcrumbs
Breadcrumbs help bind the meatballs and keep them tender.
Eggs
Eggs provide structure and prevent the meatballs from drying out.
Bacon
Bacon adds smoky flavor and a crisp texture that elevates the entire dish.
Cheddar cheese
Cheddar melts smoothly and delivers the familiar sharpness of a cheeseburger.
Bourbon barbecue sauce
Bourbon barbecue sauce brings sweetness, smokiness, and depth to the meatballs.
Onion
Onion adds moisture and savory balance to the meat mixture.
Garlic
Garlic enhances the overall flavor with subtle warmth.
Salt
Salt sharpens and balances the rich ingredients.
Black pepper
Black pepper adds gentle heat and depth.
Sub rolls
Sub rolls hold the meatballs and sauce while staying sturdy and soft inside.
Directions
Preheat the oven to 190°C. In a bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, eggs, finely chopped onion, garlic, salt, and black pepper. Mix gently until just combined, then form into evenly sized meatballs. Arrange the meatballs on a baking tray and bake until cooked through.
While the meatballs bake, cook the bacon until crisp, then crumble it. Warm the bourbon barbecue sauce in a saucepan. Add the cooked meatballs to the sauce and simmer briefly so they absorb the flavor. Slice the sub rolls and lightly toast them. Fill each roll with sauced meatballs, sprinkle with bacon and cheddar cheese, then return to the oven until the cheese is melted. Serve hot.
Equipment Needed
Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:
Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.
Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.
large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.
Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.
Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.
Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.
Full-Size Blender – is a powerful kitchen appliance for making smoothies, soups, and sauces in large batches.
3-in-1 Air Fryer – This versatile 3-in-1 air fryer offers Air Fry for healthier meals with less oil, Bake for bakery-quality desserts and treats, and Reheat to bring leftovers back to life with crispy, flavorful results
Servings and Timing
Serves 4
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Variations and Customizations
These subs are highly adaptable. For extra heat, add chili flakes or jalapeños to the meatball mixture. Smoked gouda or mozzarella can replace cheddar for a different cheese profile. Ground turkey can be used for a lighter version, though beef delivers the most authentic cheeseburger flavor. For added freshness, top the subs with pickles or shredded lettuce just before serving. You can also serve the meatballs over fries or mashed potatoes instead of bread.
Nutrition and Dietary Info
| Nutrient | Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 690 |
| Protein | 34 g |
| Carbohydrates | 48 g |
| Fat | 40 g |
| Saturated Fat | 16 g |
| Fiber | 3 g |
| Sugar | 14 g |
| Sodium | 1,120 mg |
FAQs
Can I make the meatballs ahead of time?
Yes, the meatballs can be baked in advance and reheated in the sauce.
Is the bourbon flavor strong?
No, it is mild and sweet, as the alcohol cooks off during heating.
Can I use store-bought barbecue sauce?
Yes, bourbon-style barbecue sauce works perfectly.
What bread works best for these subs?
Soft but sturdy sub rolls or hoagie rolls are ideal.
Can these subs be frozen?
The meatballs freeze well, but the assembled subs are best served fresh.
What sides pair well with this dish?
French fries, coleslaw, or roasted vegetables pair very well.
Conclusion
Sizzling Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs are a bold, indulgent twist on classic comfort food. Packed with juicy meatballs, smoky bacon, and rich barbecue flavor, this recipe is perfect for when you want something hearty, fun, and unforgettable.
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