Sizzling Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs

Published: August 18, 2025

by Maria

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Ground Beef: Use high-quality ground beef for juicy meatballs; 80/20 is my go-to for perfect flavor and moisture.
Bacon: Cook until crispy to add that irresistible crunch and smoky flavor; no one can resist bacon. Chicken Sausage Skillet Cheesy Ranch Potatoes.
Bourbon: Choose a good bourbon for the BBQ sauce to enhance the flavors without overwhelming sweetness.
BBQ Sauce: Use your favorite brand or homemade sauce; ensure it’s thick enough to coat those meatballs perfectly.
Sub Rolls: Opt for fresh, soft sub rolls; they should cradle those meatballs without falling apart.
Cheddar Cheese: Shred fresh cheddar cheese for melty goodness that binds everything together deliciously.
Onion Powder and Garlic Powder: Essential seasonings that elevate the meatball flavor profile; don’t skip these! Garlic Butter Steak.
Fresh Parsley: Chopped parsley adds a pop of color and freshness to balance the richness of the dish.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Prepare the Meatballs: In a mixing bowl, combine ground beef, bacon bits, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Form into golf ball-sized meatballs—don’t worry about perfection; rustic is charming!

Cook the Meatballs: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake until browned and cooked through—about 20 minutes—while your kitchen fills with mouth-watering aromas.

Make the Bourbon BBQ Sauce: In a saucepan over medium heat, mix BBQ sauce with bourbon. Stir until combined and simmer gently for about 5 minutes—this allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

Toss Meatballs in Sauce: Once cooked, remove meatballs from the oven and toss them in the bourbon BBQ sauce until thoroughly coated. Be generous; you want every bite bursting with flavor!

Assemble Your Subs: Slice open each sub roll and layer in those glorious meatballs generously smothered in sauce. Top with shredded cheddar cheese—it’s best when it gets all melty.

Bake Again: Place assembled subs back on a baking sheet and pop them into the oven at 400°F (200°C) until cheese melts—about 5 minutes. Keep an eye out so it doesn’t burn!

Serve these hot out of the oven topped with fresh parsley for color and added flavor—a true feast awaits!

Now that you’ve crafted these Sizzling Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs from scratch, gather your loved ones around the table. Enjoy hearty laughs as you dig into each delicious bite!

[info_box title=”You Must Know”] The Sizzling Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs are a flavor explosion that will impress anyone. The combination of smoky, savory, and sweet flavors creates an unforgettable experience. Be prepared for the delicious aroma to fill your kitchen and make your mouth water! [/info_box]

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Begin by mixing the meatball ingredients while preheating the oven. Cook the bacon separately for extra crunch, then combine everything before baking. This sequence ensures even cooking and maximum flavor.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out the ground beef for turkey or chicken for a lighter option. You can also play around with different cheeses or add jalapeños for a spicy kick! BBQ Chicken Quesadillas.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover meatball subs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat them in the oven at 350°F until warmed through to maintain their deliciousness.

[info_box title=”Chef’s Helpful Tips”] To elevate your Sizzling Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs, consider these expert tips: use fresh herbs for added flavor, avoid overmixing the meat mixture to keep it tender, and let the subs rest before serving to enhance taste. [/info_box]

Sharing these meatball subs with friends during game night was memorable; everyone’s faces lit up when they took their first bite. It’s a surefire crowd-pleaser!

FAQ

What can I substitute for bacon in this recipe?

Consider using turkey bacon or crispy shallots for a delicious alternative.

Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prepare and refrigerate them up to 24 hours before baking.

What type of cheese works best for these subs?

Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Pepper Jack are all excellent choices for extra flavor.

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card