Introduction
There’s nothing more satisfying than a hearty, saucy, cheesy meatball sub—especially when it’s made effortlessly in a slow cooker! These Slow Cooker Meatball Subs are juicy, flavorful, and incredibly easy to make, making them perfect for busy weeknights, game day gatherings, or a cozy family dinner.
The slow cooker allows the meatballs to absorb all the rich flavors of the sauce, resulting in a tender and mouthwatering bite every time. Whether you like your meatballs classic, spicy, or extra cheesy, this recipe is easily customizable to suit your taste.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✔ Effortless Cooking: The slow cooker does all the hard work—just mix, set, and forget!
✔ Packed with Flavor: Slow cooking brings out deep, rich flavors in the sauce and meatballs.
✔ Perfect for Meal Prep: Make ahead and enjoy throughout the week.
✔ Great for a Crowd: Serve at parties, gatherings, or casual family meals.
Ingredients Needed
For the Meatballs:
- 1 lb ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg, beaten
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ small onion, finely chopped
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- Salt & pepper to taste
For the Sauce:
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ small onion, finely chopped
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt & pepper to taste
For the Subs:
- 4 hoagie rolls or sub sandwich buns
- 1 cup mozzarella or provolone cheese, shredded
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Slow Cooker Meatball Subs
1. Prepare the Meatballs
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic, onion, Parmesan, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Mix until just combined—don’t overwork the meat.
- Shape into golf ball-sized meatballs (about 12-15).
- Optional: Brown meatballs in a skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes per side (this helps lock in flavor).
2. Prepare the Sauce
- In the slow cooker, mix together crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, garlic, onion, basil, oregano, red pepper flakes, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Slow Cook the Meatballs in the Sauce
- Add the meatballs to the sauce, ensuring they are fully submerged.
- Cover and cook on LOW for 6 hours or HIGH for 3-4 hours until the meatballs are tender.
4. Assemble the Subs
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Slice the hoagie rolls and lightly toast them for extra crispiness.
- Place 3-4 meatballs in each roll and spoon extra sauce over them.
- Sprinkle with shredded mozzarella or provolone cheese.
- Bake for 5 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish with fresh basil or parsley and serve hot!
Tips for the Best Slow Cooker Meatball Subs
✔ Use sturdy bread like hoagie rolls to prevent sogginess.
✔ Browning the meatballs before slow cooking enhances flavor.
✔ Toast the buns for added crunch and better texture.
✔ Customize the spice level by adjusting the red pepper flakes.
Variations and Substitutions
🔥 Spicy Version: Add extra red pepper flakes or hot sauce to the sauce.
🍗 Healthier Option: Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef.
🌱 Vegetarian Option: Substitute meatballs with plant-based alternatives.
What to Serve with Meatball Subs
🍟 French Fries or Sweet Potato Fries – Classic side dish.
🥗 Simple Green Salad – Balances out the richness of the subs.
🧄 Garlic Bread – Perfect for dipping in extra sauce!
How to Store and Reheat Leftovers
❄ Refrigerate: Store meatballs and sauce in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
🧊 Freeze: Freeze cooked meatballs and sauce for up to 3 months.
🔥 Reheat: Warm in a saucepan over medium heat or microwave until heated through.
Conclusion
Slow Cooker Meatball Subs are the ultimate comfort food—easy, flavorful, and perfect for any occasion! Whether you’re hosting a party, feeding your family, or meal prepping for the week, this recipe is guaranteed to satisfy.
Give it a try and enjoy the best homemade meatball sub you’ve ever had!