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Crockpot BBQ Meatball Subs Recipe

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These Crockpot BBQ Meatball Subs are loaded with tender meatballs simmered in smoky barbecue sauce and topped with melted cheese on soft sub rolls. They’re an easy, crowd-pleasing comfort food perfect for family dinners, game day, or casual gatherings.

Ingredients

  • 1 (32-ounce) bag frozen fully cooked meatballs
  • 2 cups barbecue sauce
  • 1/4 cup grape jelly or brown sugar (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 6 sub rolls or hoagie buns
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella, provolone, cheddar, or Monterey Jack cheese
  • 2 tablespoons butter, softened (optional)
  • Chopped parsley, for garnish (optional)
  • Sliced pickles or crispy fried onions, for serving (optional)

Instructions

  1. Place the frozen meatballs into the slow cooker.
  2. Whisk together the barbecue sauce, grape jelly or brown sugar if using, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika.
  3. Pour the sauce over the meatballs and gently stir to coat evenly.
  4. Cover and cook on LOW for 4 to 5 hours or HIGH for 2 to 3 hours, stirring once or twice if possible.
  5. Lightly butter the inside of the sub rolls and toast them for a few minutes if desired.
  6. Fill each roll with several barbecue meatballs and spoon extra sauce over the top.
  7. Sprinkle generously with shredded cheese.
  8. Broil the assembled subs for 2 to 3 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  9. Garnish with chopped parsley, sliced pickles, or crispy fried onions if desired and serve warm.

Notes

  • Homemade cooked meatballs can be substituted for frozen meatballs.
  • Use pepper jack cheese or add sliced jalapeños for a spicier version.
  • Top with creamy coleslaw for a sweet and tangy contrast.
  • Store leftover meatballs in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
  • Reheat meatballs before assembling fresh subs for the best texture.

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