Slow Cooker Meatball Subs

There’s something incredibly comforting about a warm, gooey Slow Cooker Meatball Subs sandwich. I still remember the first time I made these for my family. They came home after a long day, greeted by the rich aroma wafting through the house. As they walked in, I could see their eyes light up with anticipation. The combination of tender meatballs nestled in a soft hoagie roll, topped with melted cheese and savory spaghetti sauce, is just irresistible. It’s the kind of dish that brings everyone together, making it perfect for any gathering or simply a cozy night in.

On chilly winter evenings, these Slow Cooker Meatball Subs have a magical way of warming the heart and soul. I love how effortlessly they come together. Just toss the ingredients in the slow cooker, and let it do the work while you relax or prepare a side dish. When it’s time to serve, the meatballs will be perfectly cooked and infused with flavor, ready to be stuffed into your favorite bread. The joy on my family’s faces as they take that first bite is what I cherish the most.

Whether it’s for game day, a family reunion, or just because you want something hearty and satisfying, these subs never disappoint. I like to set up a little assembly station with the hoagie rolls, cheese, and toppings so everyone can personalize their sandwich just the way they like it. It turns a simple meal into a fun, interactive experience. Trust me, once you try making Slow Cooker Meatball Subs, it’ll become a staple in your home. You’ll find yourself making them over and over again, and they’ll be a regular request from your loved ones.

What Goes Into Slow Cooker Meatball Subs

When it comes to crafting the perfect Slow Cooker Meatball Subs, the ingredients play a crucial role in creating that mouthwatering flavor. Each component harmonizes to deliver a satisfying, hearty meal that everyone will love. Let’s explore the essential elements that make these subs truly special.

• 1 1/2 pounds lean ground beef: This serves as the base for your meatballs, providing the necessary protein and flavor.
• 1/2 cup bread crumbs: They help bind the meatballs together while adding texture.
• 1/3 cup finely chopped onion: Adding a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor.
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: For that savory, cheesy goodness.
• 1/4 cup milk: Keeps the meatballs moist and tender.
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce: Adds a punch of umami flavor.
• 3/4 teaspoon salt: To enhance the overall taste.
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: For a little kick.
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano: Infuses an aromatic flavor.
• 1 clove garlic, minced: A staple in savory dishes, bringing a robust flavor.
• 1 large jar spaghetti sauce: The perfect accompaniment to the meatballs.
• 4 hoagie rolls: The vessel for our delicious meatballs.
• 8 slices mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully over the meatballs for a cheesy topping.

Preparation Steps for Slow Cooker Meatball Subs

Preparing Slow Cooker Meatball Subs is not only simple but incredibly satisfying. You’ll love how the house fills with the aroma of cooking meatballs while you relax. Let’s dive into the steps to create this delightful meal.

1. Start by gathering all your ingredients. In a medium bowl, mix together ground beef, bread crumbs, onion, Parmesan cheese, milk, Worcestershire sauce, salt, black pepper, dried oregano, and garlic. Combine until all ingredients are well incorporated. You want to ensure that the flavors meld together nicely.
2. Shape the mixture into meatballs, aiming for a size of about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. You should have around 12 to 15 meatballs. This size is perfect for fitting into your hoagie rolls without falling apart.
3. Next, lightly grease your slow cooker with non-stick spray or a little oil. Place the meatballs in a single layer on the bottom. This allows them to cook evenly and absorb the sauce better.
4. Open the jar of spaghetti sauce and pour it over the meatballs, making sure they are well coated. The sauce will add flavor and keep the meatballs moist as they cook.
5. Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set it to cook on LOW for about 6 hours. This slow cooking method will allow the meatballs to absorb all the delicious flavors of the sauce.
6. When you’re ready to serve, split the hoagie rolls open. You can either warm them slightly in the oven or serve them as is, depending on your preference.
7. Stuff each hoagie roll generously with the meatballs and sauce, making sure to include plenty of that rich sauce.
8. Now, top each sub with mozzarella cheese. If you prefer a gooey, melted texture, I recommend using two slices per sandwich. You can even mix and match different cheeses if you like.
9. For added flavor, place the assembled subs under the broiler for a few minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Keep a close eye on them to prevent burning. This step is key to achieving that perfect cheesy topping.
10. Finally, remove them from the broiler and let them cool for a minute before serving. Once they’re cool enough to handle, serve the Slow Cooker Meatball Subs with extra sauce on the side for dipping or drizzling. Enjoy every bite of this delicious creation!

Tips and Tricks about Slow Cooker Meatball Subs

Making Slow Cooker Meatball Subs can be even more enjoyable with a few handy tips. Here are some tricks to elevate your sandwich-making experience:

• Storage: Leftover meatballs can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for three to four days.
• Freezing: These meatballs freeze beautifully! You can freeze them in sauce for up to three months. Simply thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Pairing: Consider serving your subs with a side of homemade coleslaw or crispy potato wedges for a hearty meal.
• Make-ahead: Assemble the meatballs the night before and store them in the fridge. In the morning, just pop them in the slow cooker to cook.
• Customize: Feel free to add extras to your meatball mixture, such as chopped herbs or spices based on your preference.

Serving Suggestions

One of the best things about Slow Cooker Meatball Subs is how versatile they are! Here are some delightful serving suggestions to consider:

• Side Dishes: Pair your subs with crispy oven-baked fries or a fresh green salad to balance out the richness of the meatballs.
• Lunch or Dinner: These subs make for a perfect lunch option or satisfying dinner for any day of the week.
• Game Day: They’re an excellent choice for game day gatherings, served alongside chips and dips to keep the party atmosphere lively.
• Occasion: Great for casual family gatherings or potluck dinners, as they’re easy to make in large batches.
• Storage Tips: If you plan on having leftovers, wrap each sub tightly in foil to keep them fresh. Just reheat in the oven for best results.
• Seasonal Pairings: During winter, serve with warm, comforting sides like mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables for a delicious, hearty meal.

FAQ

Conclusion

The Slow Cooker Meatball Subs are truly a must-try dish that combines convenience with taste. Perfectly cooked meatballs in a rich sauce, stuffed in a soft hoagie is nothing short of delightful. I encourage you to give this recipe a go, and I promise it will quickly become a family favorite. Enjoy the warmth and joy these subs bring to your table!

Slow Cooker Meatball Subs

The ultimate comfort food, Slow Cooker Meatball Subs combine tender meatballs with rich spaghetti sauce and gooey cheese, all packed into warm hoagie rolls. Perfect for game day or a cozy family dinner, these easy weeknight subs will satisfy any craving!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 3 hours hrs

Total Time 3 hours hrs 15 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: American

Calories: 550

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1 1/2 pounds lean ground beef
• 1/2 cup bread crumbs
• 1/3 cup finely chopped onion
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 3/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 large jar spaghetti sauce
• 4 hoagie rolls
• 8 slices mozzarella cheese

Equipment

• 6-quart slow cooker

Method

 

1. In a medium bowl, mix together ground beef, bread crumbs, onion, Parmesan cheese, milk, Worcestershire sauce, salt, black pepper, dried oregano, and garlic. Shape into 12-15 meatballs and place in a lightly greased crock pot.
2. Pour spaghetti sauce over meatballs. Cover and cook on LOW for 6 hours.
3. Split hoagie rolls open. Stuff with meatballs and sauce. Top with 2 slices cheese and broil until cheese is melted.

Notes

• Tip 1: Leftover meatballs can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for three to four days.
• Tip 2: These meatballs freeze beautifully! You can freeze them in sauce for up to three months. Simply thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Tip 3: Pair your subs with crispy oven-baked fries or a fresh green salad to balance out the richness of the meatballs.
• Tip 4: Assemble the meatballs the night before and store them in the fridge. In the morning, just pop them in the slow cooker to cook.
• Tip 5: Feel free to add extras to your meatball mixture, such as chopped herbs or spices based on your preference.

Previous PostEggnog Bread

Next Post Cheesy Potato Casserole

Meet Lily Parker