Bourbon BBQ Turkey Turkey turkey bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs Ready in 30 Minutes

These Bourbon BBQ Turkey Turkey turkey bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs Ready in 30 Minutes are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family dinner, game day, or a casual gathering. Not only do they deliver an explosion of flavors, but they’re also quick and easy to prepare. The juicy meatballs simmered in a rich bourbon BBQ sauce, combined with melted cheese and crispy turkey bacon, make these subs an irresistible treat that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With a total time of just 30 minutes, these subs are perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavor Packed: The sweet-smoky bourbon BBQ sauce elevates the taste of the meatballs to new heights.
• Customizable: Feel free to change up the toppings or sauces to suit your preferences!
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy this tasty handheld meal.
• Comfort Food Classic: These subs pack all the flavors of a cheeseburger into one delicious package.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into making these flavorful subs, gather your essential kitchen tools. This ensures smooth preparation and cooking.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• Skillet
• Baking sheet
• Oven

Importance of Each Tool

• Large mixing bowl: Necessary for combining all ingredients without mess.
• Skillet: Ideal for browning meatballs evenly for enhanced flavor.
• Baking sheet: Perfect for toasting sub rolls to achieve that golden-brown finish.
• Oven: Essential for melting cheese and ensuring everything is heated through.

Ingredients

For the Meatballs

• 1 lb ground beef (80/20 lean-to-fat ratio)
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 egg
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

For Cooking & Serving

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 cup bourbon BBQ sauce
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 4 sub rolls
• 8 slices crispy Turkey Turkey turkey bacon

How to Make Bourbon BBQ Turkey Turkey turkey bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs Ready in 30 Minutes

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure it’s hot enough to toast your sub rolls perfectly once they’re ready.

Step 2: Prepare the Meatball Mixture

In a large bowl, combine the following:
1. Ground beef
2. Breadcrumbs
3. Egg
4. Garlic powder
5. Onion powder
6. Smoked paprika
7. Salt
8. Black pepper

Mix gently until just combined; be careful not to overmix!

Step 3: Form the Meatballs

Using your hands, form the mixture into meatballs about 1.5 inches in diameter. You should have approximately 16-20 meatballs.

Step 4: Brown the Meatballs

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat:
– Add the meatballs in a single layer (work in batches if necessary).
– Brown them on all sides for about 5-7 minutes; they don’t need to be fully cooked through at this stage.

Step 5: Simmer with BBQ Sauce

Once all meatballs are browned:
– Return them all to the skillet.
– Pour the bourbon BBQ sauce over them.
– Reduce heat to low and let simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 6: Toast Sub Rolls

While the meatballs simmer:
– Slice your sub rolls lengthwise without cutting all the way through.
– Place them on a baking sheet and toast in the preheated oven for about 5 minutes until golden brown.

Step 7: Assemble Your Subs

For each toasted roll:
– Place 4-5 meatballs inside and spoon extra sauce over them.
– Top with ¼ cup shredded cheddar cheese and 2 slices of crispy Turkey Turkey turkey bacon, broken into pieces if desired.

Step 8: Melt Cheese (Optional)

For extra-melty cheese:
– Return assembled subs to the oven for an additional 2-3 minutes until cheese is fully melted.

Step 9: Serve

Serve immediately with additional bourbon BBQ sauce on the side for dipping! Enjoy your delicious Bourbon BBQ Turkey Turkey turkey bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs!

How to Serve Bourbon BBQ Turkey Turkey turkey bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs Ready in 30 Minutes

These Bourbon BBQ Turkey Turkey turkey bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs are a delicious and hearty meal that can be enjoyed in various ways. Serving them creatively can enhance your dining experience and impress your guests.

Classic Presentation

• Use a large platter to display the subs neatly arranged, making it visually appealing for gatherings or family dinners.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Add a sprinkle of chopped parsley or cilantro on top of the subs for a pop of color and added freshness.

Side Dipping Sauces

• Serve with additional bourbon BBQ sauce on the side for dipping, allowing each person to customize their flavor experience.

Accompany with Pickles

• Offer dill or bread-and-butter pickles on the side for a tangy contrast to the rich flavors of the subs.

Customize Toppings

• Provide options like sliced jalapeños, onions, or avocado for guests who want to add extra flavor and texture to their subs.

How to Perfect Bourbon BBQ Turkey Turkey turkey bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs Ready in 30 Minutes

To make your Bourbon BBQ Turkey Turkey turkey bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs even better, consider these helpful tips. They will ensure perfect meatballs and enhance the overall taste.

• Use fresh ingredients – Fresh herbs and spices elevate the flavor profile significantly compared to dried alternatives.
• Avoid overmixing – When combining the meatball ingredients, mix gently to keep the meatballs tender rather than dense.
• Brown evenly – Ensure even browning by not overcrowding the skillet; this creates a delightful crust on each meatball.
• Let them simmer – Allowing meatballs to simmer in BBQ sauce enhances their flavor as they absorb all those delicious juices.
• Toast your rolls – Toasting sub rolls adds a nice crunch that contrasts beautifully with the juicy meatballs.
• Serve immediately – For best texture and flavor, serve these subs right after assembling while everything is warm and melty.

Best Side Dishes for Bourbon BBQ Turkey Turkey turkey bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs Ready in 30 Minutes

Pairing side dishes with your Bourbon BBQ Turkey Turkey turkey bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs can create a satisfying meal. Here are some great options:

1. Sweet Potato Fries – Crispy sweet potato fries add a hint of sweetness that complements the savory flavors of the subs perfectly.
2. Coleslaw – A crunchy coleslaw provides freshness and a tangy contrast that balances out the richness of the meatballs.
3. Corn on the Cob – Grilled or boiled corn on the cob brings a seasonal touch that pairs well with BBQ flavors.
4. Potato Salad – Creamy potato salad offers comfort and satisfaction alongside your hearty subs.
5. Mixed Green Salad – A light mixed green salad dressed with vinaigrette adds brightness and freshness to your meal.
6. Baked Beans – Sweet baked beans are a classic BBQ side that enhances the overall hearty experience of your feast.
7. Onion Rings – Crispy onion rings provide an extra crunch that many enjoy alongside their sandwiches.
8. Macaroni and Cheese – For cheese lovers, this creamy dish is an indulgent choice that pairs wonderfully with any sandwich.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To make the best Bourbon BBQ Turkey Turkey turkey bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs, avoid these common mistakes.

• Overmixing the meat: Mixing the meat too much can make the meatballs tough. Stir gently until just combined to keep them tender.
• Skipping the browning step: Failing to brown the meatballs before simmering can lead to less flavor. Always take a few minutes to sear them for a rich taste.
• Using stale breadcrumbs: Stale breadcrumbs won’t bind your meatballs properly. Make sure your breadcrumbs are fresh for better texture.
• Ignoring sauce consistency: If your BBQ sauce is too thick, it won’t coat the meatballs well. Thin it with a little water or broth if necessary.
• Not toasting the rolls: Skipping this step can result in soggy subs. Toasting adds a nice crunch that complements the soft meatballs perfectly.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Keep separate from the sub rolls to maintain their texture.

Freezing Bourbon BBQ Turkey Turkey turkey bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs Ready in 30 Minutes

• Freeze individual meatball subs wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil for up to 2 months.
• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating Bourbon BBQ Turkey Turkey turkey bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs Ready in 30 Minutes

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Wrap in foil and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate, cover, and heat for 1-2 minutes, checking every 30 seconds.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or broth until warmed, about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to make Bourbon BBQ Turkey Turkey turkey bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs Ready in 30 Minutes?

The entire process takes around 30 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for a quick weeknight meal.

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes! Ground turkey is a great alternative that will still give you delicious results while being leaner.

What can I substitute for bourbon BBQ sauce?

If you don’t have bourbon BBQ sauce, you can use regular BBQ sauce mixed with a bit of apple juice or apple cider vinegar for sweetness.

How do I customize my Bourbon BBQ Turkey Turkey turkey bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs?

You can add toppings like sliced jalapeños, pickles, or different types of cheese based on your preferences!

Can I make these subs ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the meatballs and sauce ahead and assemble them just before serving for fresh subs.

Final Thoughts

These Bourbon BBQ Turkey Turkey bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs are not only quick and easy but also packed with flavor. The combination of juicy meatballs and crispy bacon makes them irresistible. Feel free to customize them with your favorite toppings or sauces to suit your taste!