Ingredients:
For the Meatballs
- 1 pound ground beef (80/20 lean-to-fat ratio)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg
- 1/3 cup milk
- 1/2 cup cooked bacon, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For the Bourbon BBQ Sauce
- 1 cup barbecue sauce
- 2 tablespoons bourbon
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
For Assembling
- 4 to 6 sub rolls
- 1 cup shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese
- Extra cooked bacon for topping (optional)
- Sliced pickles (optional)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Meatballs
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, chopped bacon, shredded cheddar, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined.
Form into golf ball-sized meatballs and place on the prepared baking sheet.
Step 2: Bake
Bake for 15 to 18 minutes, or until cooked through and nicely browned.
Step 3: Make the Bourbon BBQ Sauce
While the meatballs bake, combine barbecue sauce, bourbon, brown sugar, and Worcestershire sauce in a small saucepan. Simmer over medium-low heat for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Step 4: Coat the Meatballs
Add the baked meatballs to the sauce and gently toss to coat. Let them simmer together for 5 minutes so they absorb the flavor.
Step 5: Assemble the Subs
Lightly toast the sub rolls. Place several saucy meatballs inside each roll. Spoon extra sauce over the top and sprinkle with shredded cheese.
Optional: Add extra bacon and sliced pickles for a true cheeseburger flavor.
Step 6: Melt and Serve
Place assembled subs under the broiler for 1 to 2 minutes, just until the cheese melts. Serve warm.
Tips
- For a stronger bourbon flavor, let the sauce simmer a little longer to deepen the taste.
- Swap cheddar for pepper jack if you prefer a little heat.
- Serve with fries, coleslaw, or onion rings for the ultimate comfort meal.
These hearty, cheesy, and smoky subs bring together everything you love about a bacon cheeseburger in a delicious meatball sandwich form.