Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs
Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs are a fun and tasty twist on two of my favorite things: burgers and meatball subs! These hearty sandwiches are packed with juicy meatballs…
By Emily
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Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs are a fun and tasty twist on two of my favorite things: burgers and meatball subs! These hearty sandwiches are packed with juicy meatballs flavored like classic cheeseburgers, loaded with crispy bacon, melted cheese, and smothered in a sticky bourbon BBQ sauce that adds a great smoky-sweet kick.
I love making these on a weekend when I’m craving something big and satisfying but want to keep it casual. The bourbon BBQ sauce gives the meatballs a nice pop of flavor, and adding bacon just brings that extra touch of crunch and saltiness that everyone ends up fighting over. I usually toast the sub rolls a bit to get that perfect crispy outside and soft inside, which makes the whole thing even better.
These subs are great for sharing around the dinner table or even at a game day party. I like to serve them with simple sides, like some crunchy pickles or a fresh salad, so the star of the show can shine. Honestly, once you try these meatball subs, you’ll want to make them again and again—they’re a fun way to enjoy familiar flavors in a new, messy, and delicious package!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground beef: Using 80/20 beef gives juicy meatballs with good fat balance. For a leaner option, try ground turkey or chicken but add a little olive oil to keep moisture.
Cheddar cheese: Sharp cheddar adds that classic cheeseburger flavor. American cheese works too if you want a meltier, creamier texture.
Bourbon BBQ sauce: If you don’t have bourbon, swap with apple juice or a splash of whiskey instead. The brown sugar and smoked paprika bring that smoky-sweet depth you’ll love even without bourbon.
Bacon: Skip or use turkey bacon for a lighter version. Make sure it’s crisp to add nice crunch to each bite.
Sub rolls: Choose sturdy rolls that hold up well to juicy meatballs and sauce. You can also use hoagie or even brioche buns for a softer, richer bite.
How Can I Make Juicy Meatballs That Don’t Fall Apart?
Mixing and shaping meatballs right is key! Here’s my go-to:
- Use breadcrumbs and egg to bind — they soak up moisture and hold everything together.
- Mix gently. Too much stirring can make meatballs dense and tough.
- Grated onion adds flavor and extra moisture inside the meatballs.
- Cook meatballs over medium heat, turning carefully so they brown without breaking.
- If baking, bake at a moderate temperature to avoid drying out.
Coating meatballs in the warm sauce right after cooking helps seal in juiciness and infuses flavor. Letting the meatballs rest a few minutes before assembling also helps keep them tender inside.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large mixing bowl – to combine all your meatball ingredients without a mess.
- Nonstick skillet or frying pan – great for browning meatballs evenly without sticking.
- Small saucepan – perfect for simmering the bourbon BBQ sauce gently.
- Baking sheet – used to bake the assembled subs and melt the cheese perfectly.
- Spatula or tongs – to turn meatballs safely and easily while cooking.
- Sharp knife – to slice rolls and chop bacon and onions cleanly.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner meatball option that still stays flavorful.
- Try pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar for a spicier melt that adds a little kick.
- Add finely chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce for heat lovers.
- Mix in chopped mushrooms or bell peppers into the meatball mix for extra veggies and moisture.
How to Make Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Meatballs:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated onion
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Bourbon BBQ Sauce:
- 1 cup barbecue sauce
- 1/4 cup bourbon whiskey
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp chili powder
Additional Toppings:
- 6 slices cooked crispy bacon, chopped
- 6 hot dog or sub rolls
- 6 slices cheddar cheese (or shredded cheddar)
- 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare the meatballs and sauce, 10 minutes to cook meatballs, plus 5-7 minutes to bake the assembled subs. Overall, you can expect around 35 minutes from start to finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Bourbon BBQ Sauce:
In a small saucepan over medium heat, mix barbecue sauce, bourbon, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, smoked paprika, and chili powder. Stir well and simmer gently for 5-7 minutes until thickened. Set aside.
2. Make the Meatballs:
In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, grated onion, egg, shredded cheddar, garlic powder, onion powder, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix just enough to combine without overworking the meat.
3. Form and Cook Meatballs:
Shape the mixture into 12 meatballs of equal size. Heat a skillet over medium heat and cook the meatballs for about 8-10 minutes. Turn occasionally until browned on all sides and cooked through.
4. Coat the Meatballs in Sauce:
Transfer cooked meatballs to a bowl and pour the warm bourbon BBQ sauce over them. Toss gently to make sure all meatballs are evenly coated.
5. Assemble the Subs:
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Split the rolls without cutting all the way through. Place 3 meatballs in each roll and top each meatball with a slice of cheddar cheese.
6. Bake:
Place the subs on a baking sheet and bake for 5-7 minutes until cheese melts and rolls are lightly toasted.
7. Add Toppings and Serve:
Remove from oven, then sprinkle chopped bacon, red onion, and chopped parsley over the subs. Serve immediately with extra bourbon BBQ sauce if you like.
Can I Make These Meatballs Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare and cook the meatballs a day in advance. Store them in an airtight container in the fridge and reheat in the bourbon BBQ sauce before assembling the subs.
Can I Use Frozen Meatballs?
Absolutely! Just thaw the meatballs completely in the fridge overnight, then warm them gently in the bourbon BBQ sauce before placing them in the rolls.
What Can I Substitute for Bourbon?
If you don’t have bourbon, you can substitute with apple juice, whiskey, or even a splash of vanilla extract for a similar sweet and smoky flavor without the alcohol.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftover meatball subs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave, adding a little extra BBQ sauce to keep them moist.
