These easy Crock Pot Italian Meatball Subs are an easy weeknight dinner that are a hit with the whole family. With only a few ingredients (including frozen meatballs and jarred sauce), this recipe can be made in no time at all! If you’re looking for a simple and delicious slow cooker recipe, this meatball sub recipe is the one for you.

There’s nothing better than a “set it and forget it” dinner on a busy weeknight, and these Crock Pot Italian Meatball Subs are exactly that. Life gets hectic, and the last thing most of us want to do at the end of the day is spend hours in the kitchen. With this recipe, all you have to do is toss a few simple ingredients—like frozen Italian meatballs, jarred marinara sauce, and some seasonings—into your slow cooker, set the timer, and let it work its magic. By dinnertime, you’ll have tender, flavorful meatballs ready to layer onto soft hoagie rolls with melty provolone or mozzarella and a sprinkle of Parmesan. It’s a hearty, comforting meal that feels like something special but takes almost no effort at all. These meatball subs are perfect for weeknights, game day gatherings, or anytime you need a family-friendly dinner that practically makes itself.

Making these Crock Pot Italian Meatball Subs couldn’t be easier. Start by coating your slow cooker with nonstick spray or using a liner for easy cleanup. Then, pour in your favorite jarred marinara sauce, stir in the Italian seasoning and garlic powder, and add the frozen meatballs—tossing everything together so the meatballs are fully coated in sauce. Cover and cook on high for about 3 hours or on low for 5 hours, giving it a quick stir now and then. When it’s time to eat, layer slices of provolone or mozzarella cheese inside hoagie rolls, spoon the hot meatballs and sauce over the top, and finish with a sprinkle of Parmesan. Serve them warm, gooey, and straight from the slow cooker for the ultimate easy weeknight dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Crock Pot Italian Meatball Subs Recipe

• This recipe comes together with just a handful of store-bought ingredients, making it quick and convenient.
• The slow cooker does all the work, so you can set it in the morning and come home to a ready-to-eat dinner.
• Using frozen meatballs and jarred marinara saves time without sacrificing flavor.
• These meatball subs are hearty, cheesy, and satisfying, making them a hit with both kids and adults.
• It’s a versatile meal that works for busy weeknights, casual gatherings, or game day parties.
• Cleanup is minimal, especially if you use a slow cooker liner.

Ingredients For Easy Crock Pot Meatball Subs

• 32 oz. package frozen Italian meatballs
• 2 24oz. jars of your favorite marinara sauce
• 2 tsp. Italian seasoning
• 1 tsp. garlic powder
• 6 hoagie rolls, sliced in half
• Garlic Butter Spread
• sliced provolone or mozzarella cheese
• grated parmesan cheese

How to Make This Easy Meatball Sub Recipe

Step 1: Prepare slow cooker with nonstick cooking spray or crock pot liner.

Step 2: Add marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, and garlic powder to crock pot and stir to combine.

Step 3: Add frozen meatballs and toss to coat well.

Step 4: Cook on high for 3 hours or low for 5 hours, stirring occasionally.

Step 5: Set oven to broil, slice hoagie buns and spread with garlic butter. Place sliced mozzarella cheese on eat hoagie bun, this keeps the bread from getting soggy. Broil in a preheated oven for 3-4 minutes or until cheese is slightly melted.

Step 6: Remove buns from the oven and spoon meatballs over cheese. Top with shredded mozzarella cheese and sprinkle with grated parmesan cheese. Enjoy!

What to Serve/Pair with Slow Cooker Italian Meatball Subs

Slow Cooker Italian Meatball Subs are hearty and filling on their own, but they pair perfectly with a few simple sides to round out the meal. An Italian salad is one of my go-to easy sides with these subs. You can also serve them with a side of garlic bread or breadsticks for an extra dose of comfort food. For something lighter, roasted or steamed vegetables make a nice contrast, while potato chips or French fries keep things casual and fun—perfect for game day or a family movie night.

Popular Substitutions & Additions

One of the best things about Crock Pot Italian Meatball Subs is how easy they are to customize. If you don’t have frozen Italian meatballs on hand, you can swap in homemade meatballs or even turkey or chicken meatballs for a lighter option. Try using a spicy marinara or adding a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like a little heat. For extra flavor, sauté some onions and peppers and layer them into your subs before adding the meatballs. You can also switch up the cheese—mozzarella and provolone are classics, but cheddar, pepper jack, or even a sprinkle of feta can give these sandwiches a fun twist.

Storing Leftover Meatball Subs

If you have leftovers, store the meatballs and sauce separately from the hoagie rolls to keep the bread from getting soggy. Place the meatballs and sauce in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3–4 days. To reheat, warm them in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through, then assemble fresh subs with your rolls and cheese. You can also freeze the cooked meatballs and sauce for up to 2 months—just thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in a saucepan or slow cooker when you’re ready to enjoy them again.

Crock Pot Italian Meatball Subs FAQs

Can I use homemade meatballs instead of frozen?

Yes! Homemade meatballs work perfectly in this recipe. Just make sure they are fully cooked before adding them to the slow cooker to ensure even heating.

Can I make these ahead of time?

Absolutely. You can assemble the meatballs, sauce, and seasonings in the slow cooker the night before, cover, and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, just set it to cook according to the recipe.

What type of cheese works best for these subs?

Provolone and mozzarella are classic choices because they melt beautifully and complement the marinara. You can also experiment with cheddar, pepper jack, or even a sprinkle of Parmesan for extra flavor.

Can I freeze the leftovers?

Yes, the cooked meatballs and sauce can be frozen for up to 2 months. Freeze in an airtight container, thaw in the fridge overnight, and reheat on the stovetop or in a slow cooker before assembling fresh subs.

How can I make these subs spicier?

Add red pepper flakes to the sauce, use a spicy marinara, or layer in sliced banana peppers to give the subs a little extra kick.

Other Crock Pot Recipes You’ll Love

Easy Crock Pot Swedish Meatballs Recipe

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Crock Pot Chicken Pot Pie with Biscuits

Crock Pot Pork Carnitas

Don’t Forget To Come Back And Let Me Know How Your Easy Crock Pot Italian Meatball Subs (Slow Cooker Recipe) Turned Out!