Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 8 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 cup bourbon BBQ sauce
- 4 hoagie or sub rolls
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Optional: pickles, lettuce, or onions for topping
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix gently and form into 12 evenly-sized meatballs.
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Cook the meatballs until browned on all sides, about 8-10 minutes. Cook bacon slices until crispy, then crumble and set aside.
- In a small saucepan, combine bourbon BBQ sauce with a splash of bourbon (about 2 tablespoons). Warm gently over low heat, stirring occasionally.
- Add the cooked meatballs to the sauce, toss to coat, and cook for another 3-4 minutes until heated through.
- Slice the rolls lengthwise, leaving a hinge. Place 3 meatballs in each roll, spoon additional sauce if desired, and top with shredded cheddar cheese and crumbled bacon.
- Preheat broiler. Place assembled sandwiches on a baking sheet and broil until cheese melts, about 2-3 minutes. Serve immediately with optional toppings.
Notes
- For extra smoky flavor, add a pinch of smoked paprika or chipotle peppers to the sauce.
- You can prepare the meatballs a day in advance and refrigerate before cooking.
- Use good quality bourbon for a richer flavor in the sauce.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Sandwiches
- Method: Stovetop, Broiling
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Contains Meat
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 sandwich
- Calories: 650 kcal Kcal
- Sugar: 8 grams
- Sodium: 1200 mg
- Fat: 40 grams
- Saturated Fat: 15 grams
- Unsaturated Fat: 20 grams
- Trans Fat: 1 gram
- Carbohydrates: 45 grams
- Fiber: 3 grams
- Protein: 35 grams
- Cholesterol: 125 mg