Slow Cooker Italian Meatball Subs Recipe
Introduction
Slow Cooker Italian Meatball Subs are a comforting and easy-to-make meal perfect for busy days. With tender meatballs simmered in rich spaghetti sauce and melted cheese on a soft hoagie roll, these subs satisfy any craving. Let your slow cooker do the work while you prepare the rest.
Ingredients
- 45 oz. jar spaghetti sauce
- 26 oz. bag beef meatballs
- 6 hoagie rolls
- 8 oz. package mozzarella cheese
- 1 tablespoon parmesan cheese (optional)
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1: Pour the frozen meatballs into the slow cooker, then add the spaghetti sauce and stir well to combine.
- Step 2: Set the slow cooker to high for 2 hours or low for 4 hours. Stir occasionally to prevent the sauce from burning on the sides.
- Step 3: Cut the hoagie rolls open and add mozzarella cheese inside each one.
- Step 4: Spoon the meatballs and sauce over the cheese in each roll. Top with optional parmesan cheese and fresh parsley if desired, then serve warm.
Tips & Variations
- For extra flavor, toast the hoagie rolls before assembling to add a slight crunch.
- Try adding sliced banana peppers or a dash of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- Substitute beef meatballs with turkey or chicken meatballs for a lighter option.
Storage
Store leftover meatballs and sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stove. Assemble fresh subs before serving to keep the bread from getting soggy.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use homemade meatballs instead of frozen?
Yes, you can use homemade meatballs. Just ensure they are fully cooked before adding them to the slow cooker with sauce to avoid undercooking.
Can I prepare this recipe without a slow cooker?
Absolutely. You can simmer the meatballs and sauce in a large pot on the stove over low heat for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
Print
Slow Cooker Italian Meatball Subs Recipe
- Total Time: 2 hours 5 minutes (high) or 4 hours 5 minutes (low)
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
A comforting and easy-to-make Slow Cooker Italian Meatball Subs recipe featuring tender beef meatballs simmered in rich spaghetti sauce, served in warm hoagie rolls topped with melted mozzarella, parmesan cheese, and fresh parsley.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 45 oz. jar spaghetti sauce
- 26 oz. bag frozen beef meatballs
- 6 hoagie rolls
- 8 oz. package shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 tablespoon parmesan cheese (optional)
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Combine Meatballs and Sauce: Pour the frozen beef meatballs into the slow cooker. Add the entire jar of spaghetti sauce and stir well to coat the meatballs evenly with the sauce.
- Cook in Slow Cooker: Set the slow cooker to high and cook for 2 hours or set it to low and cook for 4 hours. Stir occasionally during cooking to prevent the sauce from burning on the sides of the pot and ensure even cooking.
- Assemble Subs: Slice the hoagie rolls open. Place a generous amount of shredded mozzarella cheese inside each roll, then spoon hot meatballs and sauce onto the rolls. Top with freshly chopped parsley and sprinkle parmesan cheese if desired. Serve immediately while warm.
Notes
- Stir the meatballs occasionally during cooking to prevent sticking and burning.
- For a more flavorful sauce, you can add extra Italian seasoning or garlic powder to the sauce before cooking.
- Using frozen meatballs means no thawing is necessary; cook directly in the slow cooker.
- If you prefer melted mozzarella topping, place assembled subs under a broiler for 1-2 minutes before serving.
- Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours (high) or 4 hours (low)
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Keywords: Slow Cooker, Meatball Subs, Italian Meatballs, Easy Dinner, Comfort Food, Sandwiches, Slow Cooker Recipes
