Bourbon BBQ Beef Cheeseburger Meatball Subs are a mouthwatering twist on classic meatball subs, featuring juicy beef meatballs seasoned like a cheeseburger and smothered in a rich, smoky bourbon BBQ sauce. Topped with melted cheese and served in a toasted sub roll, these meatball subs are the ultimate indulgent comfort food.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Bourbon BBQ Beef Cheeseburger Meatball Subs are a true crowd-pleaser, bringing together the best of a cheeseburger and meatball sub in one delicious sandwich. The beef meatballs are perfectly seasoned, and the bourbon BBQ sauce adds a smoky, slightly sweet kick that makes each bite irresistible. Topped with gooey cheese and served in a toasted sub roll, these subs are perfect for a hearty meal or game-day feast.

Bourbon BBQ Beef Cheeseburger Meatball Subs

Ingredients

For the Meatballs:

1 lb ground beef (preferably 80/20 for juicy meatballs)
1/4 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup milk
1 large egg
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and pepper, to taste
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (plus more for topping)

For the Bourbon BBQ Sauce:

1/2 cup bourbon (or substitute with apple cider vinegar if preferred)
1 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite store-bought or homemade)
2 tablespoons brown sugar
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

For the Subs:

4 sub rolls or hoagie buns
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (for topping)
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

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

Directions

Make the Meatballs: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Gently mix everything together until combined (don’t overwork the meat).
Form the Meatballs: Use your hands to form the meat mixture into 12–14 meatballs, about 1.5 inches in diameter, and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Bake the Meatballs: Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for 15–18 minutes, or until they are browned and cooked through.
Make the Bourbon BBQ Sauce: While the meatballs are baking, combine the bourbon, BBQ sauce, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, and red pepper flakes in a small saucepan. Bring to a simmer over medium heat and cook for 5–7 minutes, allowing the sauce to reduce and thicken.
Combine Meatballs and Sauce: Once the meatballs are cooked, transfer them to the saucepan with the bourbon BBQ sauce. Gently stir to coat the meatballs in the sauce and cook for an additional 3–5 minutes, letting the flavors meld together.
Toast the Sub Rolls: While the meatballs are simmering, slice the sub rolls in half and toast them lightly in the oven or on a grill for 3–5 minutes until golden and crispy.
Assemble the Subs: Place 3–4 meatballs on each toasted sub roll. Spoon some of the sauce over the meatballs and top with shredded cheddar cheese.
Melt the Cheese: Place the assembled subs under the broiler for 1–2 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes

Variations

Spicy Bourbon BBQ Sauce: Add extra red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the BBQ sauce to give it more heat.
Cheese Variety: Use a mix of cheddar and pepper jack cheese for a bit of spice, or try smoked gouda for a unique twist.
Vegetarian Option: Use veggie or plant-based meatballs for a vegetarian version of this recipe.
Bacon-Topped Meatballs: Add cooked bacon crumbles on top of the meatballs before broiling them for an extra smoky flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat the meatballs and sauce in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat. Reheat the sub rolls in the oven for a few minutes to restore crispiness.
Freezing: Freeze the cooked meatballs and sauce separately in airtight containers for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw and heat through on the stovetop, and then assemble the subs.

FAQs

1. Can I make the meatballs ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the meatballs ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator or freezer. Just bake them and store in an airtight container. Reheat them with the BBQ sauce when you’re ready to assemble the subs.

2. Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for the beef for a leaner version of the meatballs. You might need to adjust seasoning to enhance the flavor.

3. Can I use store-bought BBQ sauce?

Absolutely! Using store-bought BBQ sauce is a time-saver, just be sure to add the bourbon and the other ingredients to create a richer, more complex flavor.

4. How can I make the subs spicier?

To increase the heat, use a spicy BBQ sauce or add fresh jalapeños on top of the meatballs before broiling the cheese. You can also add extra red pepper flakes to the bourbon BBQ sauce.

5. Can I use a different type of bread?

Yes, you can use any type of bread you prefer, such as hoagie rolls, baguettes, or even slider buns for mini versions of the subs.

6. Can I add vegetables to these subs?

Yes, you can add sautéed onions, bell peppers, or pickled jalapeños for added crunch and flavor.

7. Can I make this recipe without bourbon?

Yes, if you prefer not to use bourbon, you can substitute it with apple cider vinegar or a splash of water for a tangier, non-alcoholic version of the BBQ sauce.

8. Can I make these meatball subs in advance?

You can make the meatballs and sauce ahead of time and store them separately. When ready to serve, heat them up, assemble the subs, and melt the cheese under the broiler.

9. How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Use gluten-free breadcrumbs in the meatballs and make sure to use gluten-free buns or serve the meatballs over rice or in lettuce wraps for a gluten-free option.

10. Can I serve this recipe as a dip?

Yes, you can serve the bourbon BBQ meatballs as a dip! Simply keep the meatballs in the sauce and serve with toothpicks, dipping bread, or vegetables on the side.

Conclusion

Bourbon BBQ Beef Cheeseburger Meatball Subs are a fun, indulgent twist on classic meatball subs. The smoky, sweet bourbon BBQ sauce elevates the beef meatballs, while the melted cheese and toasted sub rolls bring everything together in a hearty, satisfying meal. Perfect for a family dinner or game day, these meatball subs are sure to become a crowd favorite!