Bourbon BBQ Meatball Subs

Bourbon BBQ Meatball Subs are a deliciously satisfying dish that combines the rich flavors of bourbon-infused barbecue sauce with hearty meatballs served in soft hoagie rolls. This recipe is a delightful way to elevate your sandwich game, perfect for gatherings, game day celebrations, or casual dinners at home. The blend of savory meat, tangy barbecue sauce, and melted cheese creates mouthwatering sub sandwiches that everyone will adore.

Why Make This Recipe

There are numerous reasons to indulge in making Bourbon BBQ Meatball Subs. First and foremost, they are incredibly tasty! The combination of flavors is a surefire way to please your family or guests. Moreover, the recipe is straightforward and relatively quick, allowing you to whip up a satisfying meal without spending all day in the kitchen.

Additionally, this dish can be customized easily according to personal preferences or dietary restrictions. Whether you want to spice things up with additional ingredients or create a healthier version, the options are limitless. Plus, who doesn’t love a meal that pairs well with a variety of side dishes? Bourbon BBQ Meatball Subs can fit into numerous occasions, making them as versatile as they are delicious.

How to Prepare Bourbon BBQ Meatball Subs

Ingredients:

1 lb ground beef: Choose a lean variety for lower fat content, or go for a mix of beef and pork for richer flavor.
1/2 cup breadcrumbs: These help bind the meatballs and provide texture.
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a savory flavor and richness to the meatball mixture.
1 egg: Acts as a binder to hold the meatball mixture together.
2 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic adds a robust flavor; feel free to use garlic powder in a pinch.
1 teaspoon onion powder: Enhances the overall flavor profile.
1 teaspoon smoked paprika: This provides a delightful smokiness that complements the barbeque sauce.
1/2 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Essential seasonings that bring out the flavors.
1 tablespoon olive oil: Used for searing the meatballs and adding healthy fats.
1 cup bourbon BBQ sauce: You can either buy this from a store or make your own. Homemade sauce allows for full control over sweetness and spiciness.
4 hoagie rolls: Choose fresh rolls for the best texture.
1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese: Either cheese melts beautifully, so pick your favorite or mix both.
6 slices cooked turkey bacon, chopped: Adds a delicious, smoky crunch to the subs.

Instructions:

Prepare Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your meatballs will bake evenly once they’re on the baking sheet.
Line a Baking Sheet: Use parchment paper to line the baking sheet. This helps prevent the meatballs from sticking and makes for easier cleanup afterward.
Mix the Meatball Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, egg, minced garlic, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix these ingredients gently with clean hands until just combined. Be careful not to over-mix, as this can make your meatballs tough.
Form the Meatballs: Shape the mixture into 12 equal-sized meatballs. Aim for a size similar to a golf ball, as this helps them cook evenly.
Sear the Meatballs: In a skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil. Once hot, place the meatballs in the skillet without overcrowding. Sear them on all sides, which will take about 5 minutes. This step adds flavor through the Maillard reaction and gives a nice texture to the outside of the meatballs.
Bake the Meatballs: Transfer the seared meatballs to the prepared baking sheet. Bake them in the preheated oven for 12–15 minutes or until they are fully cooked (an internal temperature of 160°F/70°C).
Warm the BBQ Sauce: In a saucepan, gently heat the bourbon BBQ sauce over low heat. Allow it to warm up without boiling, which will help develop the flavors.
Combine Meatballs and Sauce: Once the meatballs are cooked, add them to the warmed bourbon BBQ sauce. Toss them carefully to coat them fully in the sauce.
Prepare the Rolls: Split open the hoagie rolls and place them on a baking sheet. Lightly toast them in the oven or on a grill to achieve that crispy texture.
Assemble the Subs: Place three meatballs in each toasted hoagie roll. Top them generously with shredded cheese and sprinkle the chopped turkey bacon on top.
Melt the Cheese: Place the assembled subs under the broiler for 1–2 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden. Watch closely to avoid burning.
Serve: Drizzle additional bourbon BBQ sauce over the subs before serving, if desired.

How to Serve Bourbon BBQ Meatball Subs

Bourbon BBQ Meatball Subs are quite versatile and can be served in various ways. Here are some ideas:

Casual Family Dinner: Perfect for a laid-back evening at home, serve these subs with a side of sweet potato fries or a simple green salad.
Game Day Snack: Cut the subs into smaller portions and serve them as appetizers during game day. Pair with chips and salsa for an unbeatable snack platter.
Picnic Staple: These subs are portable! Wrap them in foil and take them on your next picnic for a delightful outdoor meal.
Themed Parties: They can be the star of a barbecue-themed dinner party. Serve alongside coleslaw and corn on the cob.
Lunch Idea: These subs can be enjoyed cold or reheated, making them an excellent option for lunchboxes.

How to Store Bourbon BBQ Meatball Subs

Storing bourbon BBQ meatball subs correctly will help reduce waste and keep your food safe. Here are some practical tips:

Refrigerating: Store leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the rolls and meatballs separate if possible to maintain texture.
Freezing: Meatballs can be frozen for up to 3 months. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag once frozen solid. Defrost in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating: To reheat, you can microwave, bake in the oven, or warm in a skillet. If reheating the entire assembled sub, wrap it in foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
Anti-Waste Tips: If you have leftover bourbon BBQ sauce, store it in a sealed container for future use. You can also utilize leftover meatballs in pasta dishes, salads, or as a protein addition to grain bowls.

Tips for Mastering Bourbon BBQ Meatball Subs

Meat Mixture: Feel free to experiment with meat. A blend of ground turkey, chicken, or pork can work well if you prefer a leaner or different flavor profile.
Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh garlic instead of garlic powder for a more robust flavor. Mince it finely to distribute flavor consistently.
Don’t Overmix: Mixing your meatball ingredients too much can make them tough. Handle the mixture gently!
Baking Time: Always check for doneness with a meat thermometer to avoid undercooked meatballs.
Customize the Cheese: Try different cheese blends for diverse flavor combinations. Gouda or pepper jack could add a unique twist.
Watch the Broiler: When melting the cheese, stay close to the oven to prevent burning. Turn the subs to get an even melt if necessary.

Variations

There are many fun variations you can try to put your personal twist on Bourbon BBQ Meatball Subs:

Vegetarian Version: Substitute ground beef with plant-based meat or zucchini and chickpea mix for a meatless option.
Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce to the meatball mixture for some heat.
Different Sauces: Try different barbecue sauces, such as honey mustard or a spicy chipotle sauce, to change the flavor profile.
Seasonal Ingredients: During summer, pack these subs with fresh veggies like avocado or pickled onions to enhance freshness.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and rolls to make this dish accessible for those with gluten sensitivity.

FAQ

1. Can I use store-bought meatballs instead?
Yes, you can use store-bought meatballs for convenience. Choose ones that are high quality to enhance the final dish’s flavor.

2. Is the bourbon sauce kid-friendly?
The alcohol in bourbon cooks off during the heating process, leaving just the flavor behind. However, if you’re concerned, you can use apple cider or a non-alcoholic BBQ sauce as a substitute.

3. Can I make the meatballs ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare and shape the meatballs a day in advance. Store them covered in the refrigerator and follow the remaining steps when ready to cook.

4. What can I serve on the side?
Consider serving these subs with coleslaw, potato chips, or a fresh salad. Sweet potato fries or corn on the cob also make excellent side options.

5. How can I make the rolls extra special?
For added flavor, brush the hoagie rolls with garlic butter before toasting them. This simple step enhances both aroma and taste, making your subs even more delightful.

With Bourbon BBQ Meatball Subs, you have a delightful meal that is simple to prepare and incredibly satisfying. Enjoy customizing it to suit your tastes, and most importantly, savor every bite!