Meatball subs are a classic comfort food that combines savory meatballs, rich marinara sauce, and melted cheese, all tucked inside a warm, toasted sub roll. Perfect for a quick dinner, a game-day treat, or even a casual lunch, these sandwiches are both satisfying and easy to make. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just for yourself, this meatball sub recipe is sure to hit the spot.
Ingredients:
- For the Meatballs:
- 1 lb ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (or 1 tablespoon dried parsley)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- For the Subs:
- 4 sub rolls (or hoagie rolls)
- 2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)
Method:
- Prepare the Meatballs:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground meat, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic, parsley, oregano, salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using).
- Mix until just combined. Avoid over-mixing to keep the meatballs tender.
- Roll the mixture into 1 1/2-inch balls, about the size of a golf ball.
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add a drizzle of olive oil. Cook the meatballs in batches, turning occasionally, until browned on all sides and cooked through (about 8-10 minutes). Alternatively, you can bake them in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes.
- Assemble the Subs:
- While the meatballs are cooking, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Slice the sub rolls lengthwise, leaving one side intact to create a hinge.
- In a small bowl, mix the melted butter with garlic powder. Brush the inside of the rolls with the garlic butter and place them on a baking sheet. Toast in the oven for about 5 minutes, or until lightly crispy.
- Remove the rolls from the oven and spoon a few tablespoons of marinara sauce inside each one.
- Add 3-4 meatballs to each roll, followed by more marinara sauce, and then top with a generous amount of shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Place the subs back in the oven for about 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve:
- Remove from the oven, garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired, and serve hot.
Variations & Tips:
- Meatball Options: You can use ground turkey, chicken, or a combination of meats to create a different flavor profile. For a vegetarian option, substitute the meatballs with store-bought or homemade veggie balls.
- Cheese Choices: While mozzarella is the classic choice, you can mix things up by adding provolone, cheddar, or even a slice of pepper jack for some heat.
- Sauce Swap: Marinara is the go-to, but feel free to experiment with other sauces like pesto, Alfredo, or even BBQ sauce for a unique twist.
- Make-Ahead: The meatballs can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months. Just reheat before assembling the subs.
- Add Some Crunch: For an extra layer of texture, consider adding some sautéed peppers and onions, or even a handful of fresh arugula.
- Garlic Bread Subs: For an extra flavor boost, transform the sub rolls into garlic bread by spreading garlic butter inside and out before toasting.
Final Thoughts:
Meatball subs are a versatile and crowd-pleasing dish that can be customized to suit any taste. With the right combination of tender meatballs, rich sauce, and gooey cheese, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your meal rotation. Whether you’re making them for a quick weeknight dinner or serving them up for a group, these meatball subs are always a hit. Enjoy the deliciousness in every bite!