Name: Bourbon BBQ Beef Cheeseburger Meatball Subs
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef (80/20 for best flavor); 1/4 cup breadcrumbs; 1/4 cup milk; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 large egg; 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce; 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and pepper, to taste; 1/2 cup barbecue sauce (your favorite brand); 2 tablespoons bourbon whiskey; 1 tablespoon brown sugar; 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard; 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar; 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder; 4 sub rolls or hoagie rolls; 4 slices cheddar cheese (or cheese of your choice); Pickles, onions, or other toppings (optional)

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Bourbon BBQ Beef Cheeseburger Meatball Subs are the ultimate comfort food—tender, juicy meatballs made with seasoned ground beef, smothered in a sweet and smoky bourbon BBQ sauce, and served on soft, toasted sub rolls. Topped with melted cheese, this hearty dish combines the flavors of a cheeseburger and a meatball sub for an indulgent, savory treat. Whether you’re looking to impress at a family dinner or hosting a casual gathering, these meatball subs are sure to be a hit!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Bourbon BBQ Beef Cheeseburger Meatball Subs are packed with bold flavors. The meatballs are juicy and flavorful, thanks to the combination of ground beef, seasonings, and tangy bourbon BBQ sauce. The gooey melted cheese adds richness and a creamy texture, while the toasted sub rolls hold everything together perfectly. It’s a perfect balance of smoky, sweet, and savory, all in one bite. Plus, they’re easy to make and incredibly satisfying!

Bourbon BBQ Beef Cheeseburger Meatball Subs

Ingredients

For the meatballs:

1 lb ground beef (80/20 for best flavor)
1/4 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup milk
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 large egg
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper, to taste

For the bourbon BBQ sauce:

1/2 cup barbecue sauce (your favorite brand)
2 tablespoons bourbon whiskey
1 tablespoon brown sugar
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder

For assembling:

4 sub rolls or hoagie rolls
4 slices cheddar cheese (or cheese of your choice)
Pickles, onions, or other toppings (optional)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Prepare the Meatballs:

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, Parmesan cheese, egg, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until everything is well combined.
Form the mixture into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter, and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through and reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).

2. Make the Bourbon BBQ Sauce:

While the meatballs are baking, prepare the bourbon BBQ sauce. In a small saucepan, combine the barbecue sauce, bourbon, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, smoked paprika, and garlic powder.
Stir the mixture over medium heat and bring it to a simmer. Let it cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the sauce thickens slightly. Remove from heat and set aside.

3. Assemble the Meatball Subs:

Once the meatballs are done, carefully place them into the saucepan with the bourbon BBQ sauce. Toss the meatballs in the sauce to coat them evenly.
Slice the sub rolls open and place them on a baking sheet. Toast them in the oven for about 3-5 minutes, or until they’re lightly crispy on the edges.
Place 3-4 meatballs inside each toasted sub roll. Spoon extra bourbon BBQ sauce over the meatballs and top with a slice of cheddar cheese.
Return the assembled subs to the oven and bake for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

4. Serve:

Remove the meatball subs from the oven and garnish with pickles, onions, or other toppings of your choice. Serve immediately while warm.

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes 4 hearty subs and takes about 40 minutes to prepare and cook, including baking time for the meatballs and assembling the subs.

Variations

Spicy Version: Add some hot sauce or crushed red pepper flakes to the bourbon BBQ sauce for an extra spicy kick.
Cheese Options: Swap the cheddar cheese for mozzarella, pepper jack, or your favorite melting cheese for a different twist.
Vegetarian Option: Use plant-based ground beef or meatless meatballs for a vegetarian version of this recipe.
Toppings: Customize with additional toppings like caramelized onions, sautéed mushrooms, or lettuce for extra texture and flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftover meatballs and sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also store the meatballs separately from the bread to keep them fresh.
Reheating: Reheat the meatballs and sauce on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if needed. You can also microwave individual portions for about 1-2 minutes. Toast the sub rolls separately if needed.

FAQs

Can I make the meatballs ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the meatballs and store them in the refrigerator for up to 1 day before baking. You can also freeze them before baking for up to 3 months. Just bake them directly from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Can I use a different type of meat for the meatballs?

Yes, you can use ground turkey or chicken in place of the beef. You can also mix different meats for a unique flavor.

Can I make the bourbon BBQ sauce without bourbon?

Yes, you can make the sauce without bourbon and still get great flavor. Just substitute the bourbon with an extra tablespoon of apple cider vinegar or chicken broth for a non-alcoholic version.

Can I make these subs without cheese?

Yes, you can skip the cheese for a dairy-free version, or you can substitute with a dairy-free cheese alternative if needed.

How do I make this recipe spicier?

Add more crushed red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, or a dash of hot sauce to the bourbon BBQ sauce for extra heat.

Conclusion

Bourbon BBQ Beef Cheeseburger Meatball Subs are a delicious and indulgent treat that brings together the smoky sweetness of bourbon BBQ sauce, savory beef meatballs, and gooey melted cheese—all in a crispy sub roll. This recipe is perfect for family dinners, game nights, or a hearty lunch. With just the right balance of flavors, this comfort food will leave everyone coming back for more!

Jane

Bourbon BBQ Beef Cheeseburger Meatball Subs

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Ingredients