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Easy Crock Pot Italian Meatball Subs Recipe

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4.1 from 2 reviews

This Easy Crock Pot Italian Meatball Subs recipe delivers tender Italian meatballs simmered in a rich marinara sauce, served hot in a toasted garlic butter hoagie roll layered with melted provolone or mozzarella and topped with shredded mozzarella and parmesan cheese. Perfect for a comforting and hands-off meal that’s ideal for busy days.

  • Total Time: 3 hours 10 minutes (high) or 5 hours 10 minutes (low)
  • Yield: 6 servings

Ingredients

Meatball Mixture

  • 32 oz. package frozen Italian meatballs
  • 2 (24 oz.) jars marinara sauce
  • 2 tsp Italian seasoning
  • 1 tsp garlic powder

Sub Assembly

  • 5-6 hoagie rolls, sliced in half
  • 6 Tbsp garlic butter spread
  • Sliced provolone or mozzarella cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • Grated parmesan cheese for topping

Instructions

  1. Prepare the slow cooker: Spray the crock pot with nonstick cooking spray or line it with a crock pot liner to ensure easy cleanup.
  2. Make the sauce base: In the crock pot, combine the marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, and garlic powder; stir until evenly blended for a flavorful sauce.
  3. Add meatballs: Place the frozen Italian meatballs into the crock pot and toss them in the sauce mixture to coat thoroughly.
  4. Slow cook the meatballs: Cover and cook on high for 3 hours or low for 5 hours, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
  5. Broil the rolls: Preheat your oven’s broiler. Spread garlic butter on the sliced hoagie rolls, add a slice of provolone or mozzarella on each to create a moisture barrier, then broil for 3-4 minutes or until the cheese just melts.
  6. Assemble the subs: Remove rolls from the oven, spoon the hot meatballs with sauce over the cheese, then top with shredded mozzarella and a generous sprinkle of grated parmesan cheese. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Notes

  • You can substitute frozen meatballs with homemade or store-bought fresh meatballs if preferred.
  • Adjust the amount of Italian seasoning and garlic powder to your taste preference.
  • Broiling the cheese on the buns before adding the meatballs helps keep the bread from becoming soggy.
  • These subs can be prepared a day ahead and refrigerated, then reheated before serving.
  • Use a crock pot liner for easy cleanup after cooking.
  • Author: Chef
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 3 hours (high) or 5 hours (low)
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Slow Cooking
  • Cuisine: Italian-American