CROCK POT MEATBALL SUBS

WHY YOU’LL LOVE THIS RECIPE

• Slow cooker meatball subs are perfect for busy days when you want a hearty and delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
• The Italian-style meatballs simmered in the flavorful marinara sauce absorb all the rich, savory goodness, resulting in tender and succulent meat. 
• Melted provolone cheese adds a delightful creaminess to the subs, complementing the flavors of the meatballs and sauce, while the toasted hoagie buns provide a satisfying crunch that enhances the overall texture.
• Whether you're hosting a game night, a family gathering, or just craving comfort food, these easy meatball subs are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!

INGREDIENTS YOU’LL NEED

• Marinara Sauce - Forms the flavorful base of the dish, infusing the meatballs with its rich and tangy tomato goodness.
• Minced Garlic - Adds a burst of aromatic flavor to the sauce, complementing the meatballs and enhancing the overall savory profile of the dish.
• Spices - Dried parsley lends a subtle herbal note to the marinara sauce, while black pepper adds a hint of spiciness.
• Frozen Italian Style Meatballs - These frozen meatballs bring convenience without sacrificing taste. They provide a hearty and delicious protein element to the subs, soaking up the flavors of the sauce as they cook in the slow cooker.
• Sliced Provolone Cheese - Creamy and slightly tangy provolone cheese melts beautifully over the meatballs, adding a creamy texture and a cheesy layer to the subs.
• Hoagie Rolls - Serves as the perfect vessel to hold all the ingredients together, providing a satisfying and crusty base for assembling the subs.
• Grated Parmesan Cheese - Acts as the finishing touch, adding a nutty and salty flavor that enhances the overall taste of the subs.

HOW TO MAKE MEATBALL SUBS IN THE CROCK POT

Flavor the sauce: Add marinara sauce, garlic, parsley, and black pepper to a 6-quart slow cooker. Mix until well combined.

Cook the meatballs: Pour the meatballs into the sauce and stir until they are coated in the sauce. Cover and cook on HIGH for 3 hours or LOW for 5 hours. Stir occasionally.

Prepare the sandwich bread: Preheat your oven to 350℉. Open your hoagie rolls, put two pieces of cheese in them, and then place them on a baking sheet. Bake for about 5 minutes or until cheese is melted.

Assemble the meatball subs: Add 4-5 meatballs along with the sauce to each hoagie roll and garnish with grated parmesan cheese. Serve while hot, and enjoy! 

RECIPE TIPS

• If desired, make your own marinara sauce using crushed tomatoes, onions, garlic, and your favorite Italian herbs. 
• Roast the minced garlic in a bit of olive oil before adding it to the slow cooker. This will mellow out the sharpness and infuse the sauce with a rich, aromatic taste.
• Opt for high-quality frozen Italian-style meatballs with natural ingredients and no preservatives for the best taste and texture. Alternatively, you can make your own meatballs using a mix of ground beef, pork, breadcrumbs, eggs, and seasonings.
• Stir the meatballs occasionally during the cooking process to ensure even coating with the marinara sauce and to prevent sticking to the bottom of the slow cooker.
• Before assembling the subs, lightly toast the hoagie rolls in the oven to add a satisfying crunch to each bite and prevent them from becoming soggy.
• Don't forget the final touch of grated Parmesan cheese as a garnish. It's a small addition that makes a big difference, adding a burst of umami flavor and a lovely visual appeal to the finished meatball subs.

STORING & FREEZING

Storing: Allow the dish to cool completely and then transfer to an airtight container. Store the container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To keep the subs fresh, it's best to store the meatballs and sauce separately from the hoagie rolls and cheese.

Freezing: Only the meatballs and sauce mixture is best for freezing. Allow it to cool before transferring to an airtight container or freezer-safe bag to freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating in the crock pot, stovetop, or the microwave. Assemble sandwiches when the mixture is warmed through. 

FAQ