Slow Cooker Italian Ground Turkey Rolls with Mozzarella
Hearty Italian-style ground turkey simmered in chunky vegetable tomato sauce makes these satisfying sandwich rolls perfect for busy weeknight dinners or casual entertaining. The lean turkey absorbs the rich flavors during slow cooking, creating a protein-packed filling that's both comforting and lighter than traditional beef versions. Melted mozzarella adds creamy richness to each bite.
Ingredients
- 1 teaspoon vegetable oil
- 2 ½ lb lean ground turkey, at least 90%
- 1 medium onion, chopped (1/2 cup)
- 3 cloves garlic, finely chopped
- 1 jar (48 oz) chunky garden vegetable tomato pasta sauce
- 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
- 12 French rolls, 6 inch, splithoagie rolls1:1texture
Sturdier bread holds filling better
- 6 slices (1 1/2 oz each) mozzarella cheese, halved
Instructions
- 1
Heat oil in nonstick skillet over medium-high heat until hot
- 2
Cook turkey, onion and garlic, stirring frequently, until turkey is well browned, then drain
- 3
Mix cooked turkey mixture, pasta sauce and tomato paste in slow cooker
- 4
Cover and cook on Low heat setting or High heat setting
- 5
Spoon turkey mixture onto bottom halves of rolls
- 6
Top each with half slice of cheese, cutting to fit
- 7
Cover with top halves of rolls
Tips
Drain the turkey mixture well after browning to prevent watery sauce in the slow cooker
Cut mozzarella slices to fit roll size for even cheese distribution and easier eating
Good to Know
Refrigerate leftover turkey mixture up to 3 days
Turkey mixture can be made 1 day ahead and reheated
Serve hot with turkey mixture warm and cheese melted
Common Mistakes
Don't skip draining the turkey to avoid watery sauce
Use Low heat setting for better texture development
Substitutions
Sturdier bread holds filling better
FAQ
Can I use ground beef instead of turkey?
Yes, use lean ground beef but drain thoroughly as it releases more fat than turkey during cooking.
How long will the turkey mixture keep?
Store covered in refrigerator up to 3 days or freeze up to 3 months for best quality.
Can I make this on the stovetop instead?
Yes, simmer the mixture in a covered pot for 45-60 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.