There’s a certain warmth that fills the kitchen when you come home to the enticing aroma of spices mingling and meatballs simmering away. Imagine walking through your door, a long day behind you, and being greeted by the rich scent of my Easy Crockpot Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs. This isn’t just a meal; it’s like a cozy hug in sandwich form! Each tender meatball, packed with crispy bacon and rich cheddar, is slowly cooked in a creamy, flavorful sauce, ensuring that every bite is loaded with comforting goodness.
Whether you’re planning a family dinner, gearing up for game day with friends, or simply yearning for a delicious weeknight meal, these subs hit the spot. You’ll find that this easy recipe is not only a massive crowd-pleaser but also a fun twist on a backyard classic. So, let’s dive into how you can create this savory delight right in your own slow cooker!
Why are Crockpot Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs so amazing?
Comforting, delicious delight: These subs combine the classic taste of a bacon cheeseburger with the ease of crockpot cooking.
Time-saving meal: Simply prep your ingredients, toss them in the slow cooker, and let it work its magic while you unwind!
Family-friendly favorite: Everyone will adore these hearty sandwiches, making them perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Customizable toppings: From extra cheese to crisp pickles, personalize your subs to cater to everyone’s preferences!
Rich, creamy sauce: A luscious blend of flavors elevates the meatballs and brings warmth to every bite. Explore more comforting ideas here.
Crockpot Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs Ingredients
For the Meatballs
• Lean Ground Beef – A blend of 80/20 ensures deliciously moist meatballs.
• Breadcrumbs – Use to bind the meatballs; crushed crackers can be a tasty substitute.
• Eggs – Essential for binding; no substitutes are needed for proper texture.
• Sharp Cheddar Cheese – Adds richness; switch to Colby Jack for a milder taste.
• Crispy Bacon – Provides a smokey flavor; consider turkey bacon for a lighter option.
• Garlic Powder – Enhances flavor depth; fresh minced garlic works too if desired.
• Onion Powder – Adds aromatic notes; fresh onions can be used for more robust flavor.
• Smoked Paprika – Gives smokiness and color; can be replaced with regular paprika.
• Worcestershire Sauce – Infuses savory umami; soy sauce can act as a substitute.
• Kosher Salt & Black Pepper – Essential seasonings; table salt is a suitable alternative.
For the Sauce
• Beef Broth – Creates the flavorful base; substitute with chicken broth for a lighter taste.
• Heavy Cream – Ensures a rich and creamy consistency; opt for half-and-half for fewer calories.
• Cream Cheese – Thickens the sauce while adding richness; Neufchâtel can be used for a lighter option.
• Ketchup – A classic cheeseburger condiment that complements the flavors; BBQ sauce can be used for a twist.
• Yellow Mustard – Enhances the taste; feel free to adjust according to your preference.
For Assembly
• Hoagie Rolls – Choose sturdy rolls to hold all the goodness; sub rolls or slider buns work great.
• Extra Shredded Cheddar Cheese, Bacon Crumbles, Dill Pickle Slices, Chopped Parsley – Optional toppings for added flavor and texture to your Crockpot Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs.
How to Make Crockpot Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs
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Combine ingredients: In a large bowl, mix together the ground beef, breadcrumbs, eggs, cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper until just combined.
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Shape meatballs: Roll the mixture into approximately 24 golf-ball-sized meatballs, ensuring they are uniform for even cooking.
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Brown meatballs: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and brown the meatballs for 2 to 3 minutes on each side. They don’t need to be fully cooked.
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Transfer to slow cooker: Carefully place the browned meatballs into your 6-quart slow cooker, making sure to spread them out evenly.
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Mix the sauce: In a separate bowl, whisk together the beef broth, cream cheese, heavy cream, shredded cheddar, ketchup, mustard, garlic powder, and onion powder until smooth, creating a rich sauce.
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Add sauce to meatballs: Pour the creamy sauce over the meatballs in the slow cooker, ensuring they are all coated generously.
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Cook: Set your slow cooker on LOW for 4–5 hours or HIGH for 2–3 hours, cooking until the meatballs reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
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Toast hoagie rolls: Just before serving, toast the hoagie rolls lightly until they are warm and slightly crispy.
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Assemble your subs: Load the toasted rolls with the meatballs and sauce, then top them with extra shredded cheddar cheese, bacon crumbles, and dill pickle slices for that perfect finishing touch.
Optional: Serve with crispy fries for a complete meal!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Crockpot Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs Variations
Get ready to elevate your meal with these delightful ideas that let you play around with flavors and ingredients!
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Spicy Twist: Add diced jalapeños to the meat mixture and substitute pepper jack cheese for a zesty kick.
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BBQ Delight: Swap the ketchup with your favorite barbecue sauce for a rich, tangy sweetness. It brings a finger-licking twist to classic flavors!
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Mushroom Swiss Variation: Incorporate sautéed mushrooms and switch to Swiss cheese to create a deliciously earthy profile. This is a comforting upgrade that adds depth!
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Double Up on Bacon: Mix in extra bacon bits both in the meatballs and sauce. Crispy bacon goodness in every bite is always a win!
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Turkey Option: Use ground turkey instead of beef for a lighter alternative. It still delivers delicious flavor, just with a healthier twist!
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Vegetarian Version: Substitute the meatballs with chickpea or black bean patties and add grilled vegetables for a vegetarian delight that doesn’t skimp on satisfaction.
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Cheesy Stuffed Meatballs: Stuff meatballs with small cubes of cheese before browning them; the melty surprise is sure to wow everyone!
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Latin Fusion: Mix in taco seasoning into the meatballs and top with avocado slices and salsa for a fun Mexican-inspired meal experience!
How to Store and Freeze Crockpot Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs
Fridge: Store leftover meatballs in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the slow cooker to maintain creaminess.
Freezer: Freeze meatballs in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: For best results, reheat in the slow cooker on LOW until warmed through. This keeps the sauce rich and ensures flavor retention.
Wrapping: If you’ve assembled the subs, wrap them tightly in foil before freezing. This helps prevent freezer burn and keeps the subs delicious for later enjoyment.
Make Ahead Options
These Easy Crockpot Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs are perfect for meal prepping! You can prepare the meatballs up to 24 hours in advance by mixing the ingredients and rolling them into balls. Simply refrigerate them in an airtight container until you’re ready to cook. Additionally, you can make the creamy sauce a day ahead and store it separately in the fridge. To maintain quality, make sure to seal everything tightly to prevent drying out. When it’s time to enjoy, just combine the meatballs with the sauce in your slow cooker and cook on LOW for 4–5 hours or HIGH for 2–3 hours. This way, you’ll have a delicious, hearty meal with minimal effort on busy weeknights!
What to Serve with Crockpot Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs?
Cozy up your meal with delightful sides that enhance the comforting goodness of these hearty subs.
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Crispy French Fries: The perfect pairing adds a satisfying crunch, reminiscent of classic diner fare that complements the richness of the subs.
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Fresh Garden Salad: A light, refreshing salad filled with crisp greens and vibrant veggies balances the hearty flavors, providing a wonderful contrast to the savory meatballs.
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Coleslaw: This tangy side dish with its crunchy texture and creamy dressing adds zestiness that cuts through the richness of the meatball subs, making every bite interesting.
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Potato Wedges: Oven-baked wedges sprinkled with herbs and spices bring a rustic feel that aligns beautifully with the comforting theme, providing a hearty companion.
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Pickle Chips: Their tangy crunch brings a classic cheeseburger experience to life while adding a refreshing bite that elevates the overall flavor profile of the meal.
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Beer or Root Beer: A cold brew or a frothy root beer can wash down the savory goodness and elevate meal times, perfect for a game-day celebration with friends.
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Chocolate Chip Cookies: Finish your meal on a sweet note with warm, gooey cookies that bring nostalgia and pair perfectly with a glass of milk.
Expert Tips for Crockpot Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs
- Browning Quality: Browning the meatballs is crucial for depth of flavor; don’t skip this step for the best results.
- Sauce Creaminess: Mixing sharp cheddar with cream cheese creates an irresistibly creamy sauce that pairs perfectly with the meatballs.
- Avoid Overcrowding: Ensure the meatballs are evenly spaced in the slow cooker; overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking and flavor.
- Storage Savvy: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to 4 days or frozen for 3 months; just reheat gently!
- Topping Temptations: Get creative with toppings like jalapeños, barbecue sauce, or fresh herbs to personalize your Crockpot Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs!
Crockpot Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs Recipe FAQs
What type of ground beef should I use for the meatballs?
I recommend using lean ground beef with a fat blend of 80/20. This balance ensures your meatballs remain juicy and flavorful. Using too lean of a meat can result in a dry texture.
How should I store leftover meatball subs?
Store your leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. When it comes to reheating, I suggest gently warming them on the stovetop or in the slow cooker to maintain that creamy goodness.
Can I freeze the meatballs and sauce?
Absolutely! To freeze, arrange the meatballs in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag and store for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge, then warm them in the slow cooker on LOW for the best texture and flavor retention.
What can I do if my sauce is too thick?
If you find your sauce is thicker than desired, simply add a splash of beef broth or water to thin it out. Stir well to incorporate until you achieve your preferred consistency.
Are there any dietary considerations for these meatball subs?
These delicious meatball subs may not be suitable for individuals with gluten intolerance due to breadcrumbs and hoagie rolls. You can make a gluten-free version using gluten-free breadcrumbs and rolls. Also, if you’re watching calorie intake, consider using ground turkey and low-fat cheese options!
What toppings can I customize for my meatball subs?
Get creative with toppings! You can add jalapeños for a spicy kick, crispy fried onions for crunch, or fresh herbs like parsley for a pop of freshness. Anything goes to make your Crockpot Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs uniquely yours!
Crockpot Bacon Cheeseburger Meatball Subs for Easy Comfort Bites
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large bowl, mix together the ground beef, breadcrumbs, eggs, cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper until just combined.
- Roll the mixture into approximately 24 golf-ball-sized meatballs, ensuring they are uniform for even cooking.
- Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and brown the meatballs for 2 to 3 minutes on each side.
- Carefully place the browned meatballs into your 6-quart slow cooker, making sure to spread them out evenly.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the beef broth, cream cheese, heavy cream, shredded cheddar, ketchup, mustard, garlic powder, and onion powder until smooth.
- Pour the creamy sauce over the meatballs in the slow cooker, ensuring they are all coated generously.
- Set your slow cooker on LOW for 4–5 hours or HIGH for 2–3 hours, cooking until the meatballs reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Just before serving, toast the hoagie rolls lightly until they are warm and slightly crispy.
- Load the toasted rolls with the meatballs and sauce, then top with extra shredded cheddar cheese, bacon crumbles, and dill pickle slices.