Savory Slow Cooker Meatball Subs are your go-to meal for any occasion, especially on busy days when you want a hearty and comforting dish without spending too much time in the kitchen. This recipe combines the rich, tangy notes of marinara sauce with a melty, cheesy goodness, all enveloped in a soft hoagie bun. The simplicity of using a slow cooker means you can set it and forget it, making meal preparation a breeze. Gather your ingredients, and let’s dive into this delightful recipe that’s perfect for family dinners, game days, or a satisfyingly casual meal.
Why We Love This Savory Slow Cooker Meatball Subs Recipe
When it comes to effortless comfort food, Savory Slow Cooker Meatball Subs score high marks. They deliver big on flavor while requiring minimal effort, making them perfect for any busy lifestyle. The frozen meatballs soak up the vibrant marinara sauce as they slowly cook, creating an irresistible combination that’s savory and satisfying. Combine this with gooey mozzarella and a sprinkle of parmesan, and you’ve got a dish that will please both kids and adults. Plus, you can easily customize them with your favorite ingredients, so everyone can enjoy their ideal meatball sub!
Ingredients about Savory Slow Cooker Meatball Subs
To create your own Savory Slow Cooker Meatball Subs, you will need the following ingredients:
- 24 oz Frozen Italian-style meatballs
- 24 oz Marinara sauce (or your favorite spaghetti sauce)
- 6 Hoagie buns (or brat/large hot dog buns)
- 12 oz Mozzarella cheese, cut in half
- 8 oz Shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup Grated Parmesan cheese
- 12 slices Pepperoni (optional)
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
How to Make Savory Slow Cooker Meatball Subs Directions
Getting started on your Savory Slow Cooker Meatball Subs is a straightforward and enjoyable process. Follow these easy steps, and you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time.
- Begin by spraying the inside of your slow cooker with non-stick cooking spray to prevent the meatballs from sticking.
- Next, take your frozen Italian-style meatballs and place them in the slow cooker. There’s no need to thaw them in advance; they will cook perfectly from frozen.
- Pour the marinara sauce over the meatballs, ensuring that they are well-coated and nestled in the delicious sauce. This will enhance their flavor as they cook.
- Sprinkle the Italian seasoning on top of the sauce. This adds a wonderful herby flavor profile that compliments the meatballs and sauce beautifully.
- Cover the slow cooker with its lid and cook on low for 6 hours or on high for 3 hours. The long, slow cooking time allows the meatballs to absorb all the flavors of the sauce.
- About 30 minutes before you’re ready to serve, take your hoagie buns and slice them in half. This step is crucial for easily stuffing the meatballs and toppings later on.
- When the meatballs are perfectly cooked, use tongs or a slotted spoon to carefully remove them from the slow cooker. Place the meatballs directly inside the sliced hoagie buns.
- For a cheesy delight, top each meatball with half a slice of mozzarella cheese. You want that melty, gooey texture to happen!
- Next, sprinkle shredded mozzarella over the top of the stuffed buns. Don’t skimp on this step; the more cheese, the better!
- If you like an extra kick, add a slice of pepperoni on top of each sub. This step is totally optional but oh-so-tasty!
- Place the filled buns back in the slow cooker and cover for an additional 15-20 minutes. This will allow the cheese to melt and become wonderfully gooey.
- Finally, serve your meatball subs with a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese on top. It’s the perfect finishing touch!
How to Serve Savory Slow Cooker Meatball Subs
Serving your Savory Slow Cooker Meatball Subs can be just as fun as making them. Here are some ideas to make your presentation stand out:
- Plate your subs with a side of crunchy potato chips or a simple garden salad. The contrast of textures can elevate your meal.
- If you’re hosting a game day or party, consider serving the subs on a large platter, so guests can help themselves.
- For an Italian-themed dinner, pair the subs with garlic bread and a side of antipasto for a delicious feast.
- You can also provide toppings like extra grated Parmesan, crushed red pepper flakes, or fresh parsley to sprinkle on top for added flavor.
These simple serving suggestions will make your meatball subs even more enjoyable and satisfying.
Expert Tips: Savory Slow Cooker Meatball Subs
To take your Savory Slow Cooker Meatball Subs to the next level, consider these expert tips:
- Quality Sauce: Choose a marinara sauce that you truly enjoy for the best flavor. A homemade sauce can be even more rewarding if you have the time.
- Cheese Choices: Feel free to mix different types of cheese, such as provolone or gouda, for a unique twist.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the meatball mixture the night before and refrigerate it overnight. Then, just transfer it to the slow cooker in the morning.
- Stuffing Variations: If you want to add veggies, consider thinly slicing bell peppers or onions to layer in the subs for additional taste and texture.
- Adjust Cooking Times: If you use fresh meatballs instead of frozen, reduce the cooking time as fresh meatballs cook more quickly.
How to Store Savory Slow Cooker Meatball Subs
Storing your Savory Slow Cooker Meatball Subs is simple and will ensure you can enjoy leftovers later:
- In the Fridge: Place any leftovers in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for about 3-4 days.
- For Freezing: If you wish to store the subs for a longer period, they can be wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and placed in a freezer-safe bag. Just remember to label the bag with the date.
- Reheating: When you’re ready to eat, reheat in a microwave or oven until heated through. If using an oven, cover with aluminum foil to keep the bread from getting too hard.
Variation of Savory Slow Cooker Meatball Subs
One of the best things about Savory Slow Cooker Meatball Subs is their versatility. Here are some fun ways to mix things up:
- BBQ Flavor: Substitute the marinara sauce with BBQ sauce for a smoky twist. Add some coleslaw on top for added crunch.
- Spicy Kick: Mix crushed red pepper flakes into the marinara sauce or use spicy meatballs for a fiery version.
- Vegetarian Option: Use vegetarian meatballs or portobello mushrooms for a meat-free sub that’s still hearty and flavorful.
- Cheesy Garlic Bread: Instead of hoagie buns, use cheesy garlic bread. It adds an exciting flavor twist to your classic meatball sub.
- Italian Herb Twist: Mix in fresh herbs like basil or oregano along with the Italian seasoning to elevate the dish’s aroma.
These variations allow you to adapt the recipe to suit your taste and preferences.
FAQs
What are Savory Slow Cooker Meatball Subs?
Savory Slow Cooker Meatball Subs are hearty sandwiches made with frozen meatballs, marinara sauce, and melted cheese, served in hoagie buns. They are quick to make and perfect for any casual meal.
How long does it take to cook Savory Slow Cooker Meatball Subs?
You can cook them in the slow cooker on low for 6 hours or on high for 3 hours, offering flexibility depending on your schedule.
Can I use fresh meatballs instead of frozen in this recipe?
Yes, you can use fresh meatballs, but you will need to adjust the cooking time, as fresh meatballs will cook faster than frozen ones.
What can I add to my Savory Slow Cooker Meatball Subs?
You can add extra ingredients like pepperoni, sliced veggies, or different cheeses. Customize them to suit your taste!
How should I store leftovers of Savory Slow Cooker Meatball Subs?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. You can also freeze them for longer storage.
Enjoy creating these delicious Savory Slow Cooker Meatball Subs, and feel free to customize them to make them your own!
Savory Slow Cooker Meatball Subs
Ingredients
For the Meatballs
- 24 oz Frozen Italian-style meatballs
- 24 oz Marinara sauce (or your favorite spaghetti sauce)
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
For Assembly
- 6 pieces Hoagie buns (or brat/large hot dog buns)
- 12 oz Mozzarella cheese, cut in half For topping each meatball
- 8 oz Shredded mozzarella cheese For topping each sub
- 1/2 cup Grated Parmesan cheese Final sprinkle before serving
- 12 slices Pepperoni (optional) For added flavor
Instructions
Preparation
- Spray the inside of your slow cooker with non-stick cooking spray.
- Place the frozen Italian-style meatballs in the slow cooker.
- Pour the marinara sauce over the meatballs, ensuring they are well-coated.
- Sprinkle the Italian seasoning on top of the sauce.
Cooking
- Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours.
Assembly
- About 30 minutes before serving, slice the hoagie buns in half.
- Carefully remove the cooked meatballs from the slow cooker and place them directly inside the sliced hoagie buns.
- Top each meatball with half a slice of mozzarella cheese.
- Sprinkle shredded mozzarella over the top of the stuffed buns.
- Optional: Add a slice of pepperoni on top of each sub.
- Place the filled buns back in the slow cooker and cover for an additional 15-20 minutes to melt the cheese.
- Serve with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese on top.
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