Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb ground beef (or turkey for a lighter option)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 1/4 cup chopped pickles (optional, for extra zing)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup bourbon BBQ sauce, plus extra for serving
- 6-8 hoagie rolls or sandwich buns
- 8 slices crispy bacon
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- Fresh lettuce and sliced tomatoes for toppings (optional)
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, onion, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly. Form into 12-15 meatballs and place on a baking sheet.
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake meatballs for 15-20 minutes until browned and cooked through.
- Heat bourbon BBQ sauce in a saucepan over medium heat. Add cooked meatballs to the sauce and toss to coat. Simmer for 5 minutes.
- Slice buns lengthwise, toast lightly. Spoon meatballs into buns, then top generously with shredded cheddar cheese. Broil for 2-3 minutes until cheese is bubbly and melted.
- Cook bacon until crispy, drain on paper towels. Assemble sandwiches with bacon, lettuce, and tomatoes if desired.
Notes
- Use high-quality bourbon BBQ sauce for the best flavor.
- To prevent sogginess, toast the buns before assembling.
- For extra heat, add sliced jalapeños or hot sauce.
- Meatballs can be prepared ahead and refrigerated for later use.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking, Simmering, Broiling
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Contains Meat
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 sandwich
- Calories: 650 Kcal
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 1200mg
- Fat: 40g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 20g
- Trans Fat: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 120mg