Ultimate Meatball Sub Sandwiches

Meatball Sub Sandwiches are like the superhero of sandwiches, swooping in to save your day with their warm, cheesy goodness and mouthwatering aroma. Picture tender meatballs, perfectly seasoned and nestled in a soft roll, all bathed in rich marinara sauce. The moment you take a bite, it’s an explosion of flavors that dances on your taste buds.

Now let me take you back to that one epic game day when my friends and I gathered around the TV, ready to cheer for our team. As the excitement filled the air, I decided to whip up these Meatball Sub Sandwiches. The result? A frenzy of laughter, cheers, and sauce-stained napkins everywhere. Perfect food for a perfect occasion

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • These Meatball Sub Sandwiches are unbelievably easy to prepare and deliver a flavor punch that will leave everyone asking for seconds
  • Their rustic charm makes them visually appealing, as they ooze sauce and cheese from every side
  • You can customize them with your favorite toppings or make them veggie-friendly for everyone to enjoy
  • Ideal for weeknight dinners or tailgating parties

I remember serving these sandwiches at a family gathering once everyone couldn’t stop raving about how delicious they were

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

  • Ground Beef: Choose lean ground beef for the best flavor without too much grease.
  • Breadcrumbs: Use fresh breadcrumbs to bind the meatballs together and add texture.
  • Parmesan Cheese: Grate fresh parmesan it adds an irresistible cheesy flavor.
  • Marinara Sauce: Opt for a homemade or quality store-bought sauce for authentic taste.
  • Sub Rolls: Select soft sub rolls that can hold all the delicious fillings without falling apart.
  • Mozzarella Cheese: Shredded mozzarella melts beautifully on top for that gooey finish.
  • Fresh Basil (optional): Fresh basil leaves add a burst of flavor and color if you want to elevate your subs.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it together

Prepare the Meatball Mixture: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, grated parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined overmixing can lead to tough meatballs.

Shape the Meatballs: Roll the mixture into golf ball-sized meatballs with your hands. The key here is not to squeeze too hard gentle hands make tender meatballs.

Sear the Meatballs: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add meatballs in batches and cook until browned on all sides this should take about 8 minutes.

Add Marinara Sauce: Pour marinara sauce over the browned meatballs in the skillet. Let them simmer gently for 15-20 minutes until cooked through and bubbling with aromatic goodness.

Assemble the Subs: Slice open each sub roll and place meatballs inside generously. Top with shredded mozzarella cheese and optional fresh basil leaves.

Bake Until Golden Brown: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place assembled subs on a baking tray and bake until cheese is bubbly and golden brown about 10 minutes of pure anticipation

With these simple steps, you’re now ready to impress yourself and anyone lucky enough to share these Meatball Sub Sandwiches with you

You Must Know

  • Meatball sub sandwiches are not just delicious they’re a crowd-pleaser for any gathering
  • The aroma fills your kitchen, enticing everyone to gather around
  • These sandwiches are filling and flavorful, making them perfect for game days or family dinners

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by preparing the meatballs, then bake them while simmering the sauce on the stovetop. Toast the bread just before assembling for a crunchy texture.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Consider swapping beef for turkey or adding spices like crushed red pepper for extra kick. Experiment with different cheeses, like provolone or mozzarella, to suit your taste.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover meatball sub sandwiches in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in an oven at 350°F until warmed through to keep the bread crispy.

Chef's Helpful Tips

  • To achieve perfect meatballs, ensure you mix ingredients gently overmixing can make them tough
  • Always use fresh herbs for vibrant flavors, and don’t skimp on seasoning in both meatballs and sauce
  • A splash of vinegar brightens up the overall taste

Creating these meatball sub sandwiches always brings back memories of my friends and I huddled around a table, laughing and trying not to get sauce all over ourselves.

FAQs

FAQ

Can I use frozen meatballs for meatball sub sandwiches?

Absolutely Just thaw them properly before adding to your sauce.

What type of bread is best for meatball sub sandwiches?

A sturdy hoagie roll holds up well against the sauce and toppings.

How can I make my meatballs more flavorful?

Add finely chopped onions, garlic, and fresh herbs to enhance their flavor profile.

Print
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Irresistible Meatball Sub Sandwiches


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  • Author: Ann Foster
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: Serves 4

Description

Savor the ultimate comfort food with these delectable Meatball Sub Sandwiches, featuring tender, seasoned meatballs smothered in rich marinara and melted mozzarella cheese. Perfect for game day or family gatherings, these subs are an explosion of flavors that will leave everyone wanting more. With customizable options for toppings and easy preparation, they’re ideal for any occasion.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb lean ground beef
  • 1 cup fresh breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 cups marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
  • 4 soft sub rolls
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • Fresh basil leaves (optional)

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined.
  2. Shape the mixture into golf-ball-sized meatballs.
  3. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add meatballs and cook until browned on all sides (about 8 minutes).
  4. Pour marinara sauce over meatballs and let simmer for 15-20 minutes until cooked through.
  5. Slice open each sub roll and fill with meatballs. Top with shredded mozzarella and optional basil.
  6. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake subs on a tray for about 10 minutes until cheese is bubbly.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Main
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 sandwich (220g)
  • Calories: 520
  • Sugar: 6g
  • Sodium: 960mg
  • Fat: 22g
  • Saturated Fat: 10g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 58g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 25g
  • Cholesterol: 80mg

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Ann Foster

Chef & Blogger

Hi, I’m Ann Foster! Born and raised in California’s Central Valley, I found my passion for cooking in my grandmother’s kitchen. After graduating from the Culinary Institute of America, I traveled across the country exploring new flavors and cooking techniques. This website is my passion project—where I share delicious recipes meant to bring people together, one meal at a time. Welcome to my culinary journey!

Chef Ann