Name: Bourbon BBQ Meatball Subs
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb (450g) ground beef (80/20 lean-to-fat ratio); 1 cup plain breadcrumbs; 1 large egg; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1 teaspoon salt; ½ teaspoon black pepper; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or cheese blend); 1 cup BBQ sauce (preferably smoky-sweet); 4 sub rolls, toasted

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Smoky, cheesy, and dripping in rich BBQ flavor, these Bourbon BBQ Meatball Subs are the kind of meal I turn to when I want something hearty, satisfying, and packed with bold taste. I love how simple the prep is, and the payoff is a seriously delicious sub that feels like a treat any day of the week.

Bourbon BBQ Meatball Subs

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it delivers big flavor with minimal effort. The meatballs come out juicy and tender, the BBQ sauce brings a sweet and smoky richness, and the melted cheese ties everything together. Toasted sub rolls add that perfect crunch to balance all the sauciness. It’s a reliable, crowd-pleasing meal that never disappoints.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 lb (450g) ground beef, 80/20 lean-to-fat ratio
1 cup plain breadcrumbs
1 large egg
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or a cheese blend)
1 cup BBQ sauce (use your favorite smoky-sweet blend)
4 sub rolls (toasted)

Directions

I start by combining the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. I mix just until everything’s evenly combined.
I shape the mixture into meatballs, roughly the size of golf balls.
In a skillet over medium-high heat, I cook the meatballs, turning them to brown all sides. It usually takes about 12–15 minutes until they’re cooked through.
While the meatballs cook, I warm the BBQ sauce in a separate saucepan. Once the meatballs are done, I toss them in the sauce until fully coated.
I place the sauced meatballs into toasted sub rolls and top them with shredded cheese, letting it melt slightly from the heat.
I drizzle with a little extra BBQ sauce and serve hot.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 4 subs.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes

Variations

I like using provolone or mozzarella instead of cheddar for a different cheese flavor.
Ground chicken or turkey works great if I want a lighter version.
For extra crunch, I sometimes add coleslaw or pickles on top before serving.
If I want a little spice, I mix some chili flakes or hot sauce into the BBQ sauce.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftover meatballs (separate from the bread) in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
To reheat, I warm them gently in a saucepan or microwave in short bursts until hot.
If I’ve already assembled the subs, I reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes so the bread stays crisp.

FAQs

Can I make the meatballs in advance?

Yes, I often prep the meatballs a day ahead. I keep them in the fridge until I’m ready to cook, which makes mealtime faster.

Can I freeze the meatballs?

Absolutely. I freeze the cooked meatballs (without sauce) in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. When I’m ready, I reheat and toss them in fresh sauce.

What type of BBQ sauce works best?

I like using a thick, smoky-sweet BBQ sauce. It clings well to the meatballs and gives that rich flavor I crave.

What kind of bread should I use?

Sturdy sub rolls or hoagie rolls are my go-to. They hold up well to the sauce and meat without falling apart.

Can I make this without cheese?

Definitely. I sometimes skip the cheese and the subs are still flavorful and satisfying thanks to the seasoned meat and BBQ sauce.

Conclusion

These BBQ Meatball Subs are the kind of meal I keep coming back to. They’re fast, flavorful, and hit all the right notes—juicy meatballs, tangy sauce, melted cheese, and a toasty roll to bring it all together. Whether I’m feeding friends or just making a cozy meal for myself, this recipe always delivers.