Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Subs

These Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Subs quickly became my go to option for busy game days and backyard gatherings Each bite brings together juicy burger patties smoky crisp bacon tangy cheddar and a sweet bourbon BBQ sauce all piled onto soft sub rolls It is a comforting hearty meal that only takes a handful of steps and always impresses both kids and adults alike

These subs first made an appearance at a family cookout and honestly disappeared faster than anything else on the table Even my picky eater nephew begged for seconds so now they are a regular in our meal rotation

Ingredients

• Ground beef: Gives you the juicy burger base Try to select beef with some fat content for flavor and tenderness
• Salt and pepper: Simple seasoning lets the meat shine Use freshly ground black pepper if possible
• Worcestershire sauce: Adds a savory kick and depth Pick a brand with bold natural flavor
• Bourbon BBQ sauce: Brings tangy sweet and a hint of smoke Choose one with actual bourbon notes for an authentic taste
• Bacon: Delivers crunch and smokiness Make sure it is cooked until extra crisp for the best texture
• Shredded cheddar cheese: Melts beautifully and adds sharpness Go for a block and shred it yourself for maximum flavor
• Sub rolls: Hold everything together Soft yet sturdy rolls soak up all the juices without falling apart Look for bakery fresh if possible
• Additional BBQ sauce for serving: Dials up that sticky sweet flavor layer Have extra on hand to drizzle
• Optional toppings like chopped onion and pickle chips: Provide brightness and crunch Use fresh crisp pickles for a satisfying bite

Instructions

Make the Meat Mixture:

Season the ground beef thoroughly with salt pepper Worcestershire sauce and half a cup of bourbon BBQ sauce Mix gently until everything is well combined but do not overwork so the burgers stay tender

Shape and Cook the Patties:

Divide the seasoned beef mixture into four even portions and shape each into oblong patties sized to fit your sub rolls Place patties into a large skillet over medium heat Cook for about four to five minutes per side until deeply browned on the outside and fully cooked inside

Prepare the Subs:

Place the cooked burger patties inside each split sub roll Lay them open faced for easier topping

Add Cheese and Bacon:

Scatter the shredded cheddar cheese generously over each warm patty followed by plenty of chopped crispy bacon This layering ensures melty cheese and crunchy bacon in every bite

Bake to Melt:

Arrange the loaded sub rolls on a baking sheet Slide them into a preheated oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit Bake for five minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the rolls are lightly toasted

Finish and Serve:

Once out of the oven add even more bourbon BBQ sauce on top plus any of your favorite optional toppings such as chopped onions or pickle chips Serve hot and enjoy the messy deliciousness

My personal favorite part is the smoky bacon combined with the sticky sweet heat of the bourbon BBQ sauce There is something about this combo that makes these subs irresistible and my little brother insists they are the best sandwiches he has ever had

Storage Tips

Let any leftover subs cool completely before wrapping tightly in foil or placing in an airtight container Store in the refrigerator for up to three days For best results reheat in the oven to keep the rolls crispy and the cheese gooey

Ingredient Substitutions

If you are out of ground beef try using ground turkey chicken or even a plant based meat substitute For a lighter twist substitute turkey bacon or low fat cheese Soft hoagie buns can work instead of sub rolls in a pinch

Serving Suggestions

These subs shine at backyard parties with classic picnic sides like potato salad corn on the cob or chips If you want extra tang try adding pickled jalapenos or slaw inside the bun Serve with extra napkins because they get deliciously messy

A Nod to Burger History

The classic burger has been an American icon for over a century Combining it with BBQ sauce and bacon is really a tribute to Southern barbecue traditions in sandwich form The use of bourbon BBQ sauce speaks to Kentucky roots while sub rolls bring a playful deli spin

Seasonal Adaptations

Add fresh sliced tomatoes and crisp lettuce in summer for a garden touch Swap cheddar for smoked gouda or pepper jack when you want a flavor shake up Top with caramelized onions in cooler months for a heartier savory finish

Success Stories

One friend told me that these subs became their new game day staple after trying them once Several parents have messaged me for the recipe after their kids raved about the mix of flavors This is the kind of sandwich that brings a table together and starts happy arguments over who gets the last one

Freezer Meal Conversion

Assemble the subs with cooked patties bacon and cheese then wrap each tightly in foil and freeze without toppings Thaw overnight in the fridge and bake directly in the oven until steaming hot and the cheese is bubbly Add fresh toppings just before serving

Serve these subs hot straight from the oven with extra sauce Enjoy every messy hearty bite.

Recipe FAQs

→ How can I ensure the beef stays juicy?

Gently mix the beef and avoid overhandling the mixture. Cooking patties just until done keeps them moist.

→ Can I use different cheese varieties?

Yes, cheddar melts well, but feel free to try pepper jack, mozzarella, or Swiss for a flavor twist.

→ What kind of BBQ sauce works best?

Choose a smoky bourbon BBQ sauce for depth, or use your favorite store-bought or homemade version.

→ Are there alternative toppings I can add?

Aside from onions and pickles, try lettuce, tomato slices, or jalapeños for extra freshness or heat.

→ Can these subs be made ahead?

Cook patties and bacon in advance. Assemble just before baking to keep subs fresh and bread crisp.