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Meatball Sub Recipe

4.4 from 116 reviews

This classic Meatball Sub recipe features tender homemade beef meatballs simmered in rich marinara sauce, nestled in toasted sub rolls, and topped with melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheese for an irresistible, comforting sandwich perfect for any meal.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Meatballs

  • 1 lb ground beef
  • ½ cup Italian bread crumbs
  • 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese (plus more for topping)
  • 1 egg
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • ½ teaspoon dried basil
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
  • ¼ teaspoon fresh ground black pepper

For the Sandwich

  • 2 cups marinara (or pasta sauce)
  • 4 sub rolls
  • 1½ cups finely shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh Italian parsley or fresh basil (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the meatball mixture: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, Italian bread crumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, oregano, basil, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix everything thoroughly then roll the mixture into 1-inch meatballs.
  2. Cook the meatballs: Heat a large skillet over medium heat and brown the meatballs on all sides until they develop a flavorful crust. Once browned, drain any excess grease from the skillet.
  3. Simmer meatballs in sauce: Add the marinara sauce to the skillet with the meatballs, reduce the heat to medium-low, and let them simmer gently for about 15 minutes to cook through and meld flavors.
  4. Prepare the sub rolls: While the meatballs simmer, split the sub rolls, butter them lightly, and toast them under the broiler until golden and crisp.
  5. Assemble the sandwiches: Spread half of the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the bottom halves of the toasted rolls. Place 5 meatballs into each roll, then top with the remaining mozzarella cheese.
  6. Broil the assembled subs: Place the sandwiches under the broiler just long enough for the cheese to melt and lightly brown, creating a gooey, delicious topping.
  7. Add finishing touches and serve: Optionally sprinkle additional Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh parsley or basil on top. Serve the meatball subs immediately while warm and melty.

Notes

  • For a spicier kick, add red pepper flakes to the meatball mixture or marinara sauce.
  • Use day-old bread crumbs for best texture in the meatballs.
  • These meatballs can be made ahead and refrigerated or frozen before simmering in sauce.
  • Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner version.
  • For extra flavor, sauté some garlic and onions before adding the marinara sauce.

Keywords: Meatball sub, Italian sandwich, homemade meatballs, marinara sauce, toasted sub roll