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As the festive season approaches, gatherings with family and friends become a delightful occasion filled with laughter, joy, and, of course, delicious food. One dish that captures the essence of celebration is the Bourbon BBQ Bacon Meatball Sub. This mouthwatering combination of savory meatballs, rich bourbon-infused barbecue sauce, and crispy bacon creates a flavor explosion that is sure to impress your guests.

Festive Bourbon BBQ Bacon Meatball Subs

Looking for a quick and nutritious meal? This one-pan lunch recipe offers a flavorful vegetarian lunch option that is both satisfying and easy to prepare. Packed with fresh ingredients, it’s a great way to stay healthy without sacrificing taste, making it an ideal choice for busy weekdays. Afterka has your back with this delicious idea! OnePanLunch Vegetarian HealthyEating QuickRecipes MealPrep EasyLunch NutritiousMeals

Ingredients
  

1 lb ground beef

1 lb ground pork

1/2 cup cooked and crumbled bacon (about 4-5 strips)

1 cup breadcrumbs

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1/4 cup finely chopped parsley

1/2 onion, finely diced

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 large egg

Salt and pepper to taste

1 cup BBQ sauce (preferably bourbon-infused)

1/4 cup bourbon

4 hoagie rolls

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Lettuce and sliced tomatoes for serving (optional)

Instructions
 

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

    In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, crumbled bacon, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, onion, garlic, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.

      Shape the mixture into 1.5-inch meatballs and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

        Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes, or until they are cooked through and have a nice golden color.

          While the meatballs are baking, prepare the BBQ sauce. In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the BBQ sauce and bourbon. Allow it to simmer for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it's slightly thickened.

            Remove the meatballs from the oven and carefully toss them in the bourbon BBQ sauce until they are well coated.

              Slice the hoagie rolls open without cutting all the way through. Place a few meatballs inside each roll and spoon additional BBQ sauce over the top.

                Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese generously over the meatballs in each roll.

                  Place the assembled subs back in the oven for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

                    Remove from the oven, and if desired, add some lettuce and sliced tomatoes for a fresh crunch.

                      Prep Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 45 minutes | Servings: 4