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    Home » Updates

    Crockpot Meatball Subs Recipe

    Modified: Jun 6, 2025 · Published: Sep 27, 2024 by Vicky · This post may contain affiliate links · Leave a Comment

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    crockpot meatball subs recipe pin

    If you're looking for crock pot recipes that are easy to make and will be a hit with the whole family, you've come to the right place. Crockpot Meatball Subs Recipe are a great choice for those busy days when you still want to serve something homemade.

    crockpot meatball subs recipe pin
    Jump to:
    • Slow Cooker Meatball Subs
    • Easy Meatball Recipes
    • Ingredients For Crockpot Meatball Subs
    • How to Make Meatball Subs Crock Pot
    • Tips for Making Crockpot Meatball Subs
    • FAQS For Meatball Subs Recipe
    • Crockpot Dinner Ideas
    • Crockpot Essentials
    • Beef Recipes
    • 📖 Recipe

    Slow Cooker Meatball Subs

    Crockpot meatball subs are a life-saver for hectic days. Imagine enjoying a delicious, home-cooked meal without spending hours in the kitchen. You'll love this recipe as it combines convenience with flavor. The slow cooker does the work, which lets you focus on other things.

    One thing I love about this recipe is that it is very versatile and easy to customize, just like this Pot Roast Crock Pot Recipe. You can adjust the meatballs to your taste by playing with the spices or adding your favorite ingredients.

    This meatball sub recipe is a great way to use up leftover bread or rolls. These subs are perfect for feeding a hungry family or hosting a casual get-together. This will become one of your favorite Easy Italian Recipes!

    meatball sandwiches on plate

    Easy Meatball Recipes

    Meatball recipes are easy to make and can be used in many ways. You can have them as appetizers, in tasty sauces, or as the main dish, like spaghetti and meatballs. Plus, you can make a lot at once and save them for later, which is great if you're a busy mom like me.

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    • Baked Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs

    Ingredients For Crockpot Meatball Subs

    • Panko crumbs: These Japanese-style breadcrumbs add a wonderful crunch to dishes.
    • Parmesan cheese: Adds flavor and richness.
    • Garlic powder: Provides garlic flavor without the texture of fresh garlic.
    • Onion powder: Adds subtle onion flavor.
    • Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs like basil, oregano, and thyme.
    • Salt: Enhances flavor.
    • Large eggs: Binds ingredients together and adds moisture to the meatballs.
    • Milk: Adds creaminess.
    • Italian sausage: Adds a spicy or savory kick to the dish, depending on the type you use. If ground Italian sausage is unavailable, you can substitute it with Italian sausage taken out of its casings.
    • Lean ground beef: For the meatballs.
    • Crushed tomatoes: Used for the sauce.
    • Top-sliced hotdog buns: A fun way to serve the meatballs.
    • Shredded mozzarella: Melts well and gives the subs a gooey topping.
    ingredients for crockpot meatball subs recipe

    How to Make Meatball Subs Crock Pot

    Start by mixing the Panko crumbs, Parmesan cheese, and half of the garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, and salt in a small bowl. Set this mixture aside. In a larger bowl, combine the Italian sausage and lean ground beef.

    Cheese bread crumbs and Italian seasoning in a bowl
    Ground beef and ground sausage in bowl

    Add the eggs and milk to the meat mixture and mix until everything is well combined. Finally, add the crumb mixture to the meat and mix thoroughly.

    Ground beef and ground sausage in bowl with egg

    Next, form the meat mixture into 1-2 inch balls and set them aside for about 15 minutes. While the meatballs are resting, take the crushed tomatoes and mix in the remaining garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, and salt.

    Uncooked meatballs in crock pot
    Sauce in a bowl with spices

    Place the meatballs in your slow cooker and set it to high. Cook the meatballs for 2 hours before adding the marinara sauce. Continue cooking for an additional hour.

    Meatballs and sauce in a crock pot

    Once the meatballs are cooked through, place three meatballs on each hotdog bun. Top with shredded mozzarella cheese and, if desired, a bit of fresh chopped basil for an extra touch of flavor.

    meatballs in hotdog buns
    meatball subs with shredded cheese on cutting board

    Tips for Making Crockpot Meatball Subs

    Tip 1: Feel free to add extra herbs or spices to the marinara sauce to suit your taste preferences.

    Tip 2: Using high-quality Italian sausage and lean ground beef will make a noticeable difference in flavor and texture.

    Tip 3: Letting the meatballs rest before cooking them helps them to hold their shape.

    FAQS For Meatball Subs Recipe

    How do I store leftover meatball subs?

    Store any leftover meatball subs in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep well for up to three days. To reheat, simply place them in the microwave or oven until warmed through.

    Can I make the meatballs ahead of time?

    Yes, you can prepare the meatballs ahead of time and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before cooking.

    What are some good side dishes to serve with meatball subs?

    Meatball subs pair well with a variety of side dishes, such as a fresh green salad, garlic bread, or even french fries.

    Meatball sub sandwich with shredded mozzarella

    Crockpot Dinner Ideas

    Imagine tossing a bunch of tasty ingredients into a slow cooker in the morning and by dinner, having a delicious meal ready to eat. If you are a busy parent, that is basically a dream come true. Here are some easy and yummy crock pot dinners:

    • Crock Pot Chuck Roast 
    • Crockpot Candy Chicken
    • Crockpot Pizza
    • Easy Crockpot Chicken Fajitas

    Crockpot Essentials

    To make this crockpot meatball subs recipe, you'll need a few essential kitchen tools, the most important being a slow cooker. Be sure to have a mixing bowl for combining the ingredients and a small bowl for the crumb mixture. All of these can be found on Amazon.

    Crock-Pot 7 Quart Programmable Slow Cooker with Digital Timer, Food Warmer, Polished Platinum, Perfect for Everyday Meals and EntertainingCrock-Pot 7 Quart Programmable Slow Cooker with Digital Timer, Food Warmer, Polished Platinum, Perfect for Everyday Meals and EntertainingCrock-Pot 7 Quart Programmable Slow Cooker with Digital Timer, Food Warmer, Polished Platinum, Perfect for Everyday Meals and EntertainingChefAid Slow Cooker Liners, 100% Silicone Reusable Crock Pot Insert Accessories for 6-8 Oval or Round Quart Slow Cookers, Food Safe & Dishwasher Safe (Grey-Mint)ChefAid Slow Cooker Liners, 100% Silicone Reusable Crock Pot Insert Accessories for 6-8 Oval or Round Quart Slow Cookers, Food Safe & Dishwasher Safe (Grey-Mint)ChefAid Slow Cooker Liners, 100% Silicone Reusable Crock Pot Insert Accessories for 6-8 Oval or Round Quart Slow Cookers, Food Safe & Dishwasher Safe (Grey-Mint)MAEXUS Meat Claws for Shredding Pulled Pork Chicken and Beef, Barbecue Meat Shredder, BBQ Grill Tools Accessories Gift for Smoker Slow Cooker Meat Claws (2 Pcs)MAEXUS Meat Claws for Shredding Pulled Pork Chicken and Beef, Barbecue Meat Shredder, BBQ Grill Tools Accessories Gift for Smoker Slow Cooker Meat Claws (2 Pcs)MAEXUS Meat Claws for Shredding Pulled Pork Chicken and Beef, Barbecue Meat Shredder, BBQ Grill Tools Accessories Gift for Smoker Slow Cooker Meat Claws (2 Pcs)Slow Cooker Liners,Cook Two Things at Once and Easy Clean,Crock Pot Divider,Suitable for 6-8QT Crock,Silicone Crock Pot Liners Oval (2)Slow Cooker Liners,Cook Two Things at Once and Easy Clean,Crock Pot Divider,Suitable for 6-8QT Crock,Silicone Crock Pot Liners Oval (2)Slow Cooker Liners,Cook Two Things at Once and Easy Clean,Crock Pot Divider,Suitable for 6-8QT Crock,Silicone Crock Pot Liners Oval (2)Reynolds Kitchens Slow Cooker Liners, Regular (Fits 3-8 Quarts), 20 CountReynolds Kitchens Slow Cooker Liners, Regular (Fits 3-8 Quarts), 20 CountReynolds Kitchens Slow Cooker Liners, Regular (Fits 3-8 Quarts), 20 CountHamilton Beach Portable Slow Cooker Travel Bag, Insulated Carrier Case for 4, 5, 6, 7 & 8 Quart Crock, Internal Mesh Net Holds Pot in Place, Compatible with Other Brands, Black (33002)Hamilton Beach Portable Slow Cooker Travel Bag, Insulated Carrier Case for 4, 5, 6, 7 & 8 Quart Crock, Internal Mesh Net Holds Pot in Place, Compatible with Other Brands, Black (33002)Hamilton Beach Portable Slow Cooker Travel Bag, Insulated Carrier Case for 4, 5, 6, 7 & 8 Quart Crock, Internal Mesh Net Holds Pot in Place, Compatible with Other Brands, Black (33002)

     

    This crockpot meatball subs recipe is an excellent option for busy folks looking for a convenient, delicious meal. With minimal prep work and a slow cooker doing most of the job, you can enjoy a hearty, satisfying meal without the stress.

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    📖 Recipe

    Meatball sub sandwich with shredded mozzarella

    Crockpot Meatball Subs Recipe

    Vicky
    This crockpot meatball subs recipe is great for those seeking a tasty, hassle-free meal. Add slow cooked tender meatballs and savory sauce to soft buns and top with cheese. The slow cooker takes care of the cooking, allowing you to savor a hearty, satisfying meal without any stress!
    No ratings yet
    Print Recipe Pin Recipe
    Prep Time 10 minutes mins
    Cook Time 3 hours hrs
    Total Time 3 hours hrs 10 minutes mins
    Course Crock Pot Meal
    Cuisine Italian
    Servings 8
    Calories 517 kcal

    Video

    Ingredients
      

    • ½ cup Panko crumbs
    • ½ cup Parmesan cheese
    • 1 teaspoon garlic powder divided
    • 1 teaspoon onion powder divided
    • 2 teaspoon Italian seasoning divided
    • 1 teaspoon salt divided
    • 2 large eggs
    • ¼ cup milk
    • 1 lb. ground Italian sausage
    • 1 lb. lean ground beef
    • 2 cups crushed tomatoes
    • 8 top sliced hotdog buns
    • 1 cup shredded mozzarella

    Instructions
     

    • In a small mixing bowl, combine the bread crumbs, Parmesan cheese, and spices; set aside.
    • In a larger mixing bowl, mix the two types of ground meat together.
    • Add the eggs and milk, then stir until well combined.
    • Finally, add the crumb mixture, blending until fully integrated.
    • Shape the mixture into 1- to 2-inch meatballs and let them rest for 15 minutes.
    • While the meatballs rest, mix the remaining spices into the crushed tomatoes.
    • Place the meatballs in a slow cooker, set it to high, and cook for 2 hours. Afterward, add the marinara sauce and cook for an additional hour.
    • Once the meatballs are cooked, place three on a bun, top with mozzarella, and garnish with freshly chopped basil if desired.

    Notes

    • If you can't find ground Italian sausage, you can use Italian sausage removed from the casings.
    • Don’t hesitate to throw in some extra herbs or spices to the marinara sauce to match your taste!
    • Using good-quality Italian sausage and lean ground beef really boosts the flavor and texture.
    • Letting the meatballs chill for a bit before cooking helps them keep their shape.
    Although we strive to provide precise nutritional information, please be aware that values may vary depending on the specific ingredients and cooking methods utilized.

    Nutrition

    Calories: 517kcalCarbohydrates: 31gProtein: 33gFat: 29gSaturated Fat: 11gPolyunsaturated Fat: 4gMonounsaturated Fat: 12gTrans Fat: 0.2gCholesterol: 135mgSodium: 1267mgPotassium: 632mgFiber: 2gSugar: 7gVitamin A: 354IUVitamin C: 7mgCalcium: 274mgIron: 5mg
    Keyword crockpot meatball subs recipe
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    Vicky from Mess for Less

    I'm Vicky, the founder of Mess For Less, which I started in 2011 to share easy, family-friendly recipes. With over a decade of experience as a home chef and recipe developer, I love creating meals that bring people together. I also design play and learning activities for kids, using my background as a former teacher with a Master’s degree in education. Learn more about me.

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