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Cozy Crockpot Meatball Sub Sliders Easy Recipe for Cheesy Goodness

cozy crockpot meatball sub sliders - featured image

These Cozy Crockpot Meatball Sub Sliders combine tender meatballs simmered in marinara sauce with melty mozzarella and provolone cheeses, all nestled in soft slider buns for a comforting and easy-to-make meal perfect for parties or casual dinners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 24 frozen pre-cooked meatballs (all-beef or turkey)
  • 2 cups (16 fl oz) marinara or spaghetti sauce
  • 12 soft slider buns (brioche or potato rolls recommended)
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (about 100 g)
  • 1 cup sliced provolone cheese (about 100 g)
  • 3 tablespoons melted butter (about 45 g)
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
  • Handful of fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Spray the crockpot insert lightly with non-stick cooking spray or brush with olive oil to prevent sticking. (5 minutes)
  2. Place 24 frozen meatballs evenly in the crockpot. Pour 2 cups of marinara sauce over the meatballs, coating them well but not swimming in sauce. Stir gently if needed. (5 minutes)
  3. Cover and cook on LOW for 3 to 4 hours. Stir gently midway to prevent sticking. (3-4 hours)
  4. While meatballs cook, melt 3 tablespoons of butter and mix with 1 teaspoon garlic powder and 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning. Brush this mixture generously on the inside and outside of slider buns. (10 minutes)
  5. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Slice slider buns in half horizontally without separating completely. On bottom halves, layer meatballs with sauce from crockpot. Sprinkle 1 cup shredded mozzarella evenly over meatballs, then add 1 cup sliced provolone cheese. Place top halves of buns on. (15 minutes)
  6. Place assembled sliders on a baking sheet. Brush tops with remaining garlic butter mixture and sprinkle 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese if using. Bake for 12-15 minutes until cheese melts and buns are golden brown. Watch closely to avoid burning. (12-15 minutes)
  7. Remove sliders from oven, let cool for 5 minutes, then sprinkle chopped fresh basil or parsley on top. Serve warm with extra sauce for dipping. (5 minutes)

Notes

Use frozen pre-cooked meatballs for best texture and juiciness. Brush buns thoroughly with garlic butter to prevent sogginess. Watch oven carefully during baking to avoid burning cheese. For gluten-free, use gluten-free slider buns and ensure meatballs are gluten-free. Vegan cheese and meatball alternatives can be used for a meatless version. Excess sauce can be drained before layering to keep buns from getting soggy.

Nutrition

Keywords: meatball sliders, crockpot meatballs, slow cooker sliders, cheesy meatball subs, party food, game day recipe, easy dinner, comfort food