Slow Cooker Meatball Sliders

Apr 23, 2024Updated May 14, 2025

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If there’s one recipe you’ll want to keep in your back pocket for those busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings, it’s definitely these Slow Cooker Meatball Sliders. Tender meatballs smothered in marinara sauce are cooked directly in your crock pot for quick and easy meal your whole family will enjoy.

There’s so much you can do with meatballs! Have you tried my Slow Cooker Enchilada Meatballs or Slow Cooker Cranberry Meatballs yet?

slow cooker meatball sliders on a serving tray.

Why You’ll Love These Meatball Sliders

Using a bag of frozen meatballs and a jar of marinara sauce to create a delicious (and versatile) meal is one of the top reasons why I love making them. You’ll save so much time since you’re not making the meatballs from scratch, although you certainly can if you’d like.

These sliders are perfect for any occasion, from casual weeknight dinners to backyard cookouts and potluck parties. They’re a crowd-pleaser and you can easily double or triple the recipe if necessary. Not to mention, they’re a budget-friendly option when needing to feed a lot of people. You can also make a recipe just like this but with hoagies — try my slow cooker meatball subs recipe. We also love

Recipe Ingredients

ingredients to make slow cooker meatball sliders on a table.

Frozen Meatballs: Going the frozen way saves you the hassle of rolling and seasoning your own.
Marinara Sauce: This recipe calls for 2 jars of your favorite store-bought marinara sauce to keep things simple.
Seasonings: Italian seasoning brings the herbal kick and everything is just better with garlic.
For Serving: Slider rolls and sliced provolone or mozzarella cheese.

Step-by-Step Directions

three images showing how to make slow cooker meatball sliders.

Step One – Prepare the slow cooker with nonstick cooking spray and add the sauce to the slow cooker. Then add in garlic powder and Italian seasonings. Stir.

Step Two – Add the meatballs to the slow cooker and stir.

Step Three – Cover and cook on HIGH for 3 hours or LOW for 5 hours. Stir occasionally to avoid burning around the edges. Serve on slider buns topped with cheese.

overhead shot of meatballs cooking for slow cooker meatball sliders.

How to Serve

Serve the meatballs on split hoagie rolls along with your favorite cheese. Place the cheese down first, so your buns don’t get soggy.
These meatballs also make a great topping for white rice, cauliflower rice, or a hearty bed of mashed potatoes.
Offer these slider alongside classis sides such as potato chips, cole slaw, mac n cheese, or any other side of your choice.

serving of slow cooker meatball sliders on a plate.

Recipe FAQs

Can I use homemade meatballs?

Absolutely! If you have the time, feel free to use your favorite homemade meatball recipe in place of frozen ones. Just make sure they’re fully cooked before adding them to the slow cooker.

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftover meatballs and sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop.

Can I freeze the meatballs?

Definitely! These freeze exceptionally well. Allow them to cool completely, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag. They’ll keep in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. To reheat, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator and then warm them in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.

Can I use my own seasoning blend?

You can easily customize the seasoning blend. Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices, such as basil, oregano, thyme, or even a pinch of red pepper flakes for some added heat.

three slow cooker meatball sliders on a serving tray.

More Slow Cooker Sandwich Recipes

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