This easy Slow Cooker Meatball Marinara Submarine Sandwich is a delicious and hearty meal perfect for busy days. The tender, flavorful meatballs are simmered in a rich tomato sauce, topped with mozzarella cheese, and served on soft rolls. It’s a simple, comforting dish the whole family will love!

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Recipe Ingredients

For the Sauce

• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp (3 g) dried oregano
• 3 tbsp (6 g) fresh basil
• 1 (28-oz [828-ml]) can tomato puree
• 1 (15-oz [425-g]) can diced tomatoes

For the Meatballs

• 1 cup (136 g) fresh breadcrumbs
• ⅓ cup (80 ml) water
• 1 lb (454 g) ground beef chuck
• 1 large egg, lightly beaten
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• ½ tsp dried oregano
• 4 French or Italian rolls, for serving
• 12 meatballs (3 meatballs per sub)
• 4 slices mozzarella cheese
• Grated Parmesan cheese, for garnish

How To Make Slow Cooker Meatball Marinara Submarine Sandwiches

1. Prepare the Sauce: Combine the garlic, oregano, basil, tomato puree, and diced tomatoes in a 6-quart (6-L) slow cooker.
2. Make the Meatballs: In a large bowl, mix the breadcrumbs, water, beef, egg, garlic, salt, pepper, and oregano until just combined. Shape the mixture into 12 meatballs and place them into the slow cooker with the sauce.
3. Cook: Cover the slow cooker and cook on high for 4 hours or on low for 8 hours.
4. Assemble and Serve: Serve the meatballs with sauce on rolls, topped with mozzarella cheese. Garnish with grated Parmesan cheese.

Recipe Tips

• Don’t overmix the meatball mixture: Mix the ingredients just until combined. Overworking the mixture can make the meatballs tough.
• Use fresh breadcrumbs: Fresh breadcrumbs hold moisture better and make the meatballs more tender.
• Shape meatballs gently: Roll the meatballs lightly without packing them too tightly to ensure they stay tender.
• Adjust seasoning: Taste the sauce and meatballs before cooking, and add more salt or herbs if needed for the best flavor.
• Serve with warm rolls: Toast the rolls lightly before serving for added texture and warmth that complements the meatballs and sauce.    

Recipe FAQs and Variations

Check out More Recipes:

• Slow Cooker Lentil And Vegetable ‘Cottage Pie’
• Slow Cooker Lemon Basil Chicken With Orzo
• Slow Cooker Jacket Potatoes 4 Ways