01 -
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix gently without overworking the meat.
02 -
Shape the mixture into 1.5-inch meatballs, yielding around 16-20 pieces. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and brown the meatballs on all sides in batches. Do not fully cook them at this stage.
03 -
Return all browned meatballs to the skillet and pour bourbon BBQ sauce over them. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10 minutes, stirring gently.
04 -
Slice each sub roll lengthwise without cutting all the way through. Place on a baking sheet and toast in the oven for 5 minutes until golden and slightly crunchy.
05 -
Fill each toasted sub roll with meatballs. Top with crispy bacon slices and shredded cheddar cheese. Serve warm.