Slow Cooker Meatball Subs

Slow Cooker Meatball Subs: A Hearty and Flavorful Comfort Food

If you’re in search of a satisfying and easy-to-make comfort food, look no further than our Slow Cooker Meatball Subs recipe. Bursting with Italian flavors, tender meatballs, and rich marinara sauce, these subs are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Plus, with the convenience of a slow cooker, you can set it and forget it, allowing the flavors to meld together while you go about your day. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or hosting a game day gathering, these meatball subs are sure to be a hit. Let’s dive into the details and learn how to make this delicious dish!

Ingredients:

Produce:

  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp dried basil
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1/4 tsp onion powder

Canned Goods:

  • 1 (14.5 oz) can crushed tomatoes

Refrigerated:

  • 1 egg

Condiments:

  • 1 (24 oz) jar tomato basil marinara sauce

Baking & Spices:

  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 cup Italian-style breadcrumbs

Dairy:

  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Meat:

  • 1 pound ground beef (90% lean)

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Meatballs

  1. Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, minced garlic, dried basil, dried oregano, onion powder, egg, breadcrumbs, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
  2. Shape Meatballs: Roll the mixture into meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter, and place them on a plate or baking sheet.

Step 2: Cook the Meatballs

  1. Brown Meatballs: Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a drizzle of olive oil. Once hot, add the meatballs in batches and brown them on all sides, about 2-3 minutes per side.
  2. Transfer to Slow Cooker: Once browned, transfer the meatballs to the slow cooker.

Step 3: Add Sauce and Cook

  1. Pour Sauce Over Meatballs: Pour the tomato basil marinara sauce over the meatballs in the slow cooker, ensuring they are fully submerged.
  2. Cook: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours, until the meatballs are cooked through and tender.

Step 4: Assemble the Subs

  1. Prepare Bread: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Slice the sub rolls lengthwise, leaving one side intact. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
  2. Add Meatballs and Cheese: Using tongs, transfer the meatballs from the slow cooker onto the bottom half of each sub roll. Spoon some sauce over the meatballs and sprinkle with shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese.
  3. Bake: Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  4. Serve: Remove from the oven and serve the meatball subs hot, garnished with fresh basil or parsley if desired.

Cook Notes and Variations:

  • Make Ahead: You can prepare the meatballs ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until ready to cook. Simply brown them in a skillet as directed, then transfer to the slow cooker and continue with the recipe.
  • Add Heat: For a spicy kick, add crushed red pepper flakes to the meatball mixture or stir them into the marinara sauce.
  • Change up the Cheese: Experiment with different cheeses such as provolone, fontina, or asiago for a unique flavor twist.
  • Vegetarian Option: Substitute the ground beef with plant-based meat alternatives for a vegetarian version of this dish.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions):

Q: Can I use store-bought frozen meatballs instead of making them from scratch? A: Yes, you can use frozen meatballs if you’re short on time. Simply thaw them according to the package instructions and add them to the slow cooker along with the marinara sauce.

Q: Can I freeze the leftovers? A: Yes, you can freeze leftover meatballs and sauce in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Q: What type of bread should I use for the subs? A: You can use any type of sub or hoagie rolls you prefer. French bread or Italian rolls work well for this recipe.

Q: Can I make this recipe in the oven instead of using a slow cooker? A: Yes, you can bake the meatballs in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through. Then assemble the subs as directed and bake them in the oven until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Keto and Low-Carb Version:

Keto-Friendly Variation:

  • Use almond flour instead of breadcrumbs to keep the meatballs low-carb.
  • Serve the meatballs and sauce over zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash instead of sub rolls.

Low-Carb Variation:

  • Omit the breadcrumbs from the meatball mixture to reduce the carb content.
  • Serve the meatballs and sauce over a bed of mixed greens or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.

In conclusion, Slow Cooker Meatball Subs are a delicious and comforting meal that’s perfect for any occasion. With tender meatballs simmered in flavorful marinara sauce and topped with gooey melted cheese, these subs are sure to satisfy your cravings. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just craving a hearty sandwich, this recipe is a winner. So fire up your slow cooker and get ready to enjoy a classic comfort food favorite!