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This bourbon BBQ bacon cheeseburger meatball sub combines all the flavors of your favorite burger in a convenient handheld form. The juicy meatballs smothered in tangy bourbon BBQ sauce and topped with melty cheddar and crispy bacon create a mouthwatering combination that's impossible to resist. Perfect for weeknight dinners or game day gatherings when you want maximum flavor with minimal effort.
I first made these meatball subs during a football playoff game when I needed something substantial but didn't want to miss any action. They were such a hit that they've become our Sunday tradition during football season. My husband even requests them for his birthday dinner every year.
- Ground beef: 80/20 lean to fat ratio creates perfectly juicy meatballs with the ideal burger flavor
- Breadcrumbs: help bind the meatballs while keeping them tender
- Egg: acts as a binder to hold everything together
- Garlic powder: adds savory depth without the hassle of mincing fresh garlic
- Onion powder: provides sweet onion flavor distributed evenly throughout
- Smoked paprika: brings a subtle smoky flavor that complements the BBQ sauce
- Olive oil: for browning the meatballs and creating flavor through caramelization
- Bourbon BBQ sauce: delivers sweet tanginess with warm bourbon notes
- Cheddar cheese: use sharp cheddar for the most pronounced flavor
- Sub rolls: choose soft rolls with a slightly crisp exterior for the best texture
- Crispy bacon: adds irresistible crunch and smoky saltiness
- Prepare the meat mixture:
- Combine ground beef with breadcrumbs egg and seasonings using your hands to gently incorporate everything without overworking the meat. The key is to mix until just combined for tender meatballs. Overmixing will make them tough.
- Form the meatballs:
- Scoop approximately 2 tablespoons of mixture and roll between your palms to create 1.5inch meatballs. Make them all the same size to ensure even cooking. Slightly wet hands prevent sticking.
- Brown the meatballs:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet until shimmering then add meatballs without crowding the pan. Let them develop a deep brown crust before turning. This initial sear locks in juices and creates flavor through caramelization.
- Simmer in sauce:
- Once all meatballs are browned return them to the skillet and pour bourbon BBQ sauce over them. Reduce heat and let them finish cooking in the simmering sauce which infuses them with flavor while keeping them moist.
- Toast the rolls:
- Slice sub rolls and place them in the oven until golden. The toasting step prevents soggy subs by creating a barrier against the sauce.
- Assemble the subs:
- Place meatballs in toasted rolls spooning extra sauce over them. Top with cheese and bacon pieces ensuring even distribution.
- Melt the cheese:
- Return assembled subs to the oven just until cheese melts completely forming a gooey blanket over the meatballs.
The bourbon BBQ sauce is truly the star of this recipe. I discovered it by accident when I ran out of regular BBQ sauce and decided to doctor up what I had with a splash of bourbon from my husbands collection. That happy accident became the secret ingredient that friends and family always try to guess. The slight warmth and caramel notes from the bourbon perfectly complement the beef.
Make Ahead Options
The meatballs can be prepared up to 2 days ahead and stored refrigerated before cooking. You can also fully cook them and refrigerate in the sauce for up to 3 days. When ready to serve simply reheat on the stovetop until warmed through then assemble your subs. This makes them perfect for busy weeknights when you need dinner in minutes.
Customizing Your Meatball Subs
While the classic version is incredible these subs welcome personalization. Try pepper jack cheese for added heat or provolone for a milder flavor. Swap the bacon for crispy onion strings or add sautéed mushrooms for an earthier profile. For a fresher twist top finished subs with shredded lettuce diced tomato or pickled red onions. Vegetarians can substitute plant based ground meat without sacrificing the flavor experience.
Perfect Pairings
These hearty subs shine alongside simple sides that wont compete with their bold flavors. Serve with a vinegar based coleslaw for refreshing contrast or baked sweet potato fries that complement the BBQ sauce. For beverages try a cold amber ale dark cola or unsweetened iced tea with lemon. The combination of sweet tangy spicy and savory flavors in these subs makes them surprisingly versatile for pairing.
The Secret To Perfect Meatballs
Creating the ideal meatball texture requires a gentle touch. Handle the meat mixture minimally when mixing and forming the balls. Cold ingredients work best so consider chilling your mixing bowl beforehand. For consistent sizing use a cookie scoop to portion the meat. When browning allow meatballs to develop a good crust before attempting to turn them this helps them hold their shape. Finally dont rush the simmering stage in the sauce as this is where they absorb maximum flavor.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?
Yes! The meatballs can be prepared ahead and frozen either raw or cooked for up to three months. If frozen raw, thaw completely before cooking. If frozen cooked, reheat in a skillet with the bourbon BBQ sauce until warmed through before assembling the subs.
- → What's the best type of ground beef to use?
An 80/20 lean-to-fat ratio ground beef is recommended for these meatballs. This proportion provides enough fat to keep the meatballs juicy and flavorful without becoming too greasy.
- → How can I tell if my meatballs are properly cooked?
Properly cooked beef meatballs should reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C). The inside should no longer be pink, and the juices should run clear. After browning and simmering in sauce for 10 minutes as directed, they should be fully cooked.
- → What can I substitute for bourbon BBQ sauce?
If you don't have bourbon BBQ sauce, you can use regular BBQ sauce and add a tablespoon of bourbon (optional). Alternatively, any smoky or sweet BBQ sauce will work well. For a non-alcoholic version, use honey BBQ or brown sugar BBQ sauce.
- → Can I make these subs gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute the regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers in the meatball mixture. Use gluten-free sub rolls or bread for serving. Also check that your BBQ sauce is gluten-free, as some commercial brands contain wheat-based ingredients.
- → What sides pair well with these meatball subs?
These hearty subs pair beautifully with crispy french fries, sweet potato fries, a simple green salad, coleslaw, or potato chips. For a lighter option, roasted vegetables or a cucumber salad make great accompaniments.