Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs

WHY MAKE THIS RECIPE

Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs are a delightful twist on the classic flavors of a cheeseburger. There are many reasons to make this recipe. First, it’s comforting and satisfying, offering the juicy goodness of beef, the smoky flavor of bacon, and the tangy sweetness of BBQ sauce, all wrapped in a soft sub roll. This dish is perfect for family gatherings, game day, or just a cozy night in.

Additionally, it’s simple to prepare, so even novice cooks can whip it up with ease. The combination of ingredients like bourbon, BBQ sauce, and cheese significantly enhances the rich flavors of the meatballs. Plus, who doesn’t love meatballs? This recipe is likely to become a favorite in your household.

HOW TO MAKE Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs

Making Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs requires a short list of ingredients and straightforward steps. Here’s how to do it.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
• 2 tbsp bourbon
• 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese

DIRECTIONS:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your meatballs will cook evenly and achieve the perfect texture.
2. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, crumbled bacon, breadcrumbs, BBQ sauce, bourbon, and shredded cheddar cheese. It’s important to mix these ingredients well so that the flavors are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
3. Once your mixture is well combined, form it into meatballs. Size can vary according to your preference, but they should be about the same size for even cooking. Place the meatballs on a baking sheet with space between each to allow for heat circulation.
4. Bake the meatballs in the oven for 20-25 minutes. You can check if they are cooked through by cutting one in half; there should be no pink meat inside.
5. Finally, serve the delicious meatballs in sub rolls. Add extra BBQ sauce on top, if desired, for that extra burst of flavor.

HOW TO SERVE Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs

Serving Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs is quite simple. Start by placing the hot meatballs inside the sub rolls. You can add an additional drizzle of BBQ sauce for extra flavor. Toppings like pickles, sliced onions, or jalapeños can enhance the meal even further, providing a nice crunch and added zest. These subs pair well with a side of fries, potato chips, or a simple green salad.

For gatherings, consider setting up a sandwich bar where guests can assemble their own subs. This can be an exciting way to personalize each serving according to individual tastes.

HOW TO STORE Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs

If you have leftovers, storing them correctly is essential for maintaining flavor and freshness. Here’s how to store your Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs:

1. Cool the meatballs: Allow them to cool completely at room temperature.
2. Wrap the meatballs: Place the meatballs in an airtight container. If already assembled in sub rolls, wrap them in aluminum foil or plastic wrap to keep them fresh.
3. Refrigerate or freeze: Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze the meatballs for up to 3 months. Just remember to separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

When you are ready to enjoy the leftovers, reheat the meatballs in the microwave or in the oven until they’re warmed through. If they’ve been frozen, it’s best to thaw them overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

TIPS TO MAKE Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs

To enhance your cooking experience, here are some useful tips when making Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs:

• Choose quality beef: For the best flavor, opt for ground beef with a fair amount of fat. A fat content of around 80/20 will yield juicy meatballs.
• Don’t skip the breadcrumbs: They help bind the mixture together and retain moisture, resulting in tender meatballs.
• Make mini variations: If you want smaller portions, you can make mini meatballs and serve them as appetizers. They’re perfect for parties!
• Experiment with cheese: While cheddar is delicious, feel free to use different cheeses like Monterey Jack or pepper jack for a spicy kick.

VARIATIONS

There are many ways to personalize Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs. Here are a few variations to try:

• Spicy Kick: Mix in chopped green chilies or jalapeños in the meatball mixture for a spicy touch.
• Use ground turkey or chicken: For a lighter version, swap ground beef with ground turkey or chicken. This will still give you a great meatball, along with a healthier option.
• Vegetarian option: For a vegetarian twist, use plant-based meat substitutes or mashed beans and grains to create a delicious meatball alternative.
• Different sauces: Explore using a variety of sauces such as honey mustard, spicy ketchup, or even homemade salsa to create different flavor profiles.

FAQs

Q: Can I use lean ground beef for this recipe?
A: Yes, you can use lean ground beef. However, keep in mind that it may yield slightly drier meatballs. Adding extra moisture, like a splash more BBQ sauce, can help maintain tenderness.

Q: Can I freeze the meatballs before baking?
A: Absolutely! You can form the meatballs and freeze them raw. Arrange them on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, and then transfer to a freezer bag. When you’re ready, bake them directly from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Q: What can I serve as a side with these meatball subs?
A: Classic sides include French fries, chips, or a fresh salad. You can also serve coleslaw or pickles to balance the richness of the subs.

Now you’re ready to enjoy the deliciousness of Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs! Whether it’s a casual night or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to impress.