Place the frozen meatballs in the slow cooker, spreading them out in an even layer.
Pour the marinara sauce over the meatballs. Gently turn a few to coat them, without overmixing.
Cover and simmer on low heat for 4-6 hours or on high heat for 2-3 hours, until the meatballs are warmed through and the sauce is simmering.
About 10 minutes before serving, taste the sauce and add salt if necessary.
Preheat the oven to broil. Arrange the rolls, cut-side up, on a baking sheet and toast them lightly for 2 or 3 minutes.
Arrange the meatballs and sauce on each bun (about 4 or 5 meatballs per bun).
Top generously with grated mozzarella and grill for 1-3 minutes, until melted and lightly golden.
Serve hot with more sauce on the side.
The best side dishes for meatball sandwiches:
Balance the richness of these meatball and cheese sandwiches with:
A crisp green salad with vinaigrette
Caesar salad or chopped Italian salad
Oven-roasted broccoli, zucchini, or green beans.
French fries, chips, or a light cucumber salad
Vegetable soup or minestrone for a hearty meal
Tips and variations:
Spicy Meatball Sandwiches: Add crushed red chili flakes or use a spicy arrabbiata sauce.
Deli-style flavor: Sprinkle cheese with Italian seasoning before grilling.
Lighter option: Replace the beef with fully cooked frozen turkey meatballs.
To add even more cheese: place provolone under the meatballs and mozzarella on top.
Easy to make ahead: keep the meatballs warm in the slow cooker for hours and assemble them just before serving.
Benefits of this recipe:
Only 4 ingredients
Slow cooked meal and easy to prepare
Perfect for game days, parties and crowds.
No stovetop cooking required
Affordable and family-approved
Easy to customize with different sauces or cheeses
