Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the meatballs:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional but recommended)
For cooking + sauce:
- 1 cup BBQ sauce
- 2–3 tbsp bourbon (optional, adds smoky depth)
- 6–8 slices cooked bacon, chopped
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
For the subs:
- 4 sub rolls or hoagie buns
- 1–1.5 cups shredded cheddar or American cheese
- Pickles (optional topping)
- Butter (for toasting buns)
Instructions
1. Make the meatballs
In a large bowl, mix: ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and cheddar cheese.
Roll into medium-sized meatballs (about 1.5 inches).
2. Cook the meatballs
- Heat a skillet over medium heat
- Sear meatballs until browned on all sides
- Cover and cook through (about 10–12 minutes total)
3. Make the BBQ bourbon glaze
In a small pan combine:
- BBQ sauce
- bourbon
- Worcestershire sauce
Simmer for 3–5 minutes until slightly thickened.
4. Combine
Add cooked meatballs into the sauce and toss until fully coated.
Then mix in chopped crispy bacon.
5. Prepare the subs
- Butter and toast sub rolls until golden
- Add shredded cheese inside while warm so it melts
6. Assemble
- Place meatballs into each roll
- Spoon extra sauce on top
- Add more cheese if desired
- Optional: top with pickles or extra bacon
Serve & Enjoy
Serve hot with fries, chips, or coleslaw for the ultimate comfort sandwich experience.