There’s something so comforting about a good cheeseburger, isn’t there? Maybe it’s the juicy beef, the crispy bacon, or that melty cheese that just hits the spot every time. Now, imagine all those flavors packed into a hearty sub roll, glazed with a rich bourbon BBQ sauce that adds a smoky-sweet kick. These Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Subs are exactly that—a nostalgic, mouthwatering treat that’s quick and easy to whip up for any occasion.
If you’re craving a crowd-pleasing meal that’s bursting with flavor yet simple enough for a weeknight dinner, you’re in the right place. I love how these subs come together in under an hour, and they’re perfect for game days, casual get-togethers, or a fun family dinner. Plus, who doesn’t love a meal where bourbon and bacon team up?
Why You’ll Love Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Subs
- Fast: Ready in about an hour, perfect for busy days.
- Easy: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps.
- Giftable: Make a batch for friends or potlucks—they’ll thank you!
- Crowd-pleasing: Bold flavors that everyone loves, from kids to adults.
Ingredients
Here’s everything you’ll need to bring these delicious subs to life:
- Ground beef (80/20): The perfect lean-to-fat ratio for juicy, flavorful meatballs.
- Breadcrumbs: Helps bind the meatballs and keeps them tender.
- Egg: Acts as a binder to hold the meatballs together.
- Garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika: These spices add a subtle smoky and savory depth.
- Salt and black pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance the beef’s natural flavor.
- Olive oil: For browning the meatballs evenly.
- Bourbon BBQ sauce: The star of the show—sweet, tangy, with a hint of bourbon warmth.
- Sharp cheddar cheese: Melts beautifully over the meatballs for that classic cheeseburger taste.
- Sub rolls: Toasted just right to hold all the goodness without getting soggy.
- Crispy bacon slices: Adds crunch and smoky flavor that’s simply irresistible.
How to Make Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Subs
Ready to dive in? Let’s make these mouthwatering subs step-by-step.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will get your rolls toasty and help melt the cheese at the end.
- Mix the meatball ingredients: In a large bowl, gently combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Don’t overwork the meat to keep the meatballs tender.
- Shape the meatballs: Form the mixture into 1.5-inch balls—aim for about 16 to 20 pieces.
- Brown the meatballs: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Brown the meatballs on all sides in batches, making sure not to crowd the pan. They don’t need to cook through yet; just get that beautiful crust.
- Simmer in bourbon BBQ sauce: Return all the browned meatballs to the skillet. Pour the bourbon BBQ sauce over them, reduce the heat to low, and let them simmer gently for 10 minutes. Stir occasionally to coat them evenly and finish cooking.
- Toast the sub rolls: Slice the rolls lengthwise, keeping a hinge so they don’t fall apart. Place them on a baking sheet and toast in the oven for 5 minutes until golden and just crisp.
- Assemble the subs: Fill each toasted roll with 4 to 5 meatballs. Spoon extra bourbon BBQ sauce over the top, sprinkle with shredded cheddar cheese (about ¼ cup per sub), and lay two slices of crispy bacon on top.
- Melt the cheese: Pop the assembled subs back into the oven for 2 to 3 minutes, just until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve immediately: These subs are best enjoyed hot, optionally with extra bourbon BBQ sauce on the side for dipping.
Substitutions & Additions
Feel free to make this recipe your own with these tasty swaps and upgrades:
- Ground turkey or chicken: Use leaner meats if you prefer a lighter option, but keep an eye on cooking times as they cook faster.
- Spicy BBQ sauce: Swap in a chipotle or spicy bourbon BBQ sauce for a little heat kick.
- Cheese variety: Try pepper jack or smoked gouda for a different flavor profile.
- Add veggies: Top with caramelized onions, sautéed mushrooms, or even pickled jalapeños for extra layers of flavor.
- Rolls: Brioche buns or hoagie rolls work great if you want a softer or sweeter bread option.
Tips for Success
- Don’t overmix the meat: Mixing too much can make the meatballs tough. Combine just until ingredients are incorporated.
- Brown in batches: Crowding the pan causes steaming instead of browning. That crust adds so much flavor.
- Simmer gently: Keep the heat low when cooking the meatballs in sauce to avoid burning and to let flavors meld beautifully.
- Toast rolls last minute: Toasting right before assembly ensures your subs stay crisp and not soggy.
- Prep-ahead: You can make meatballs and sauce a day ahead, then reheat and assemble when ready. Perfect for busy nights!
How to Store Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Subs
If you happen to have leftovers (though I doubt it!), here’s how to keep them fresh:
- Refrigerate: Store assembled subs in an airtight container or wrap tightly in foil or plastic wrap. They’ll keep well for up to 2 days.
- Reheat: Warm in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes to revive the toasted bread and melt the cheese again.
- Freeze: For longer storage, freeze meatballs separately from the bread and bacon. Defrost in the fridge overnight before reheating.
FAQs
Can I make these subs gluten-free?
Absolutely! Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and sub rolls to enjoy this recipe without gluten.
What bourbon BBQ sauce do you recommend?
I love using a rich, smoky bourbon BBQ sauce with a bit of sweetness. If you want to make your own, check out this homemade coffee BBQ rub recipe to add a unique twist to your sauce!
Can I use pre-cooked bacon?
Yes! Pre-cooked bacon slices can save time and still add that crispy, smoky crunch to your subs.
How do I keep the subs from getting soggy?
Toasting the rolls just before assembly and serving immediately helps maintain that perfect texture. You can also spread a thin layer of butter or mayo inside the rolls to create a moisture barrier.
If you love recipes that bring comfort and bold flavors together, you might also enjoy my easy hamburger green bean casserole, a classic twist on hearty home cooking. Or, for a sweet finish to your meal, try the delightful no-bake orange creamsicle cheesecake—it’s a refreshing treat that pairs wonderfully after a savory feast.
Enjoy making these Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Subs your own, and don’t forget to share them with friends—they’re just that good!
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Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Subs
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to toast the rolls and melt the cheese later.
- Step 2: In a large bowl, gently combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Avoid overmixing to keep meatballs tender.
- Step 3: Shape the mixture into 1.5-inch meatballs, about 16 to 20 pieces.
- Step 4: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Brown the meatballs on all sides in batches without crowding the pan. They do not need to be cooked through yet.
- Step 5: Return all browned meatballs to the skillet. Pour bourbon BBQ sauce over them, reduce heat to low, and simmer gently for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally to coat evenly and finish cooking.
- Step 6: Slice the sub rolls lengthwise, keeping a hinge. Place on a baking sheet and toast in the oven for 5 minutes until golden and crisp.
- Step 7: Fill each toasted roll with 4 to 5 meatballs. Spoon extra bourbon BBQ sauce over the top, sprinkle with shredded cheddar cheese, and lay two slices of crispy bacon on each.
- Step 8: Return the assembled subs to the oven for 2 to 3 minutes until the cheese melts and bubbles.
- Step 9: Serve immediately, optionally with extra bourbon BBQ sauce for dipping.