If you have ever dreamed of sinking your teeth into a warm, gooey, and utterly satisfying sandwich, then you are in for a treat with this Meatball Subs Recipe. It’s everything you want in comfort food: juicy, flavorful meatballs swimming in rich marinara sauce, melted cheese piled high on soft hoagie rolls, and fresh herbs that lift the whole experience. Whether it’s a family dinner or a game-day snack, these meatball subs pack a punch of taste and texture that will have everyone reaching for seconds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Meatball Subs Recipe lies in its straightforward and dependable ingredients. Each one plays a crucial part, from the hearty ground beef to the fresh herbs and melty mozzarella, creating layers of flavor and texture for the ultimate sandwich experience.
- Ground beef (1 pound 85% lean): Provides juicy, flavorful meatballs while keeping a nice texture.
- Onion (½, finely chopped): Adds a subtle sweetness and moisture to the meat mixture.
- Fresh Italian parsley (¼ cup, chopped): Brings a bright, herbal freshness that wakes up the beef.
- Kosher salt (1 teaspoon): Enhances all the savory flavors without overpowering.
- Breadcrumbs (½ cup): Helps bind the meatballs and keeps them tender; Italian or panko work well.
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese (â…“ cup): Adds a sharp, salty note that complements the beef.
- Onion powder (½ teaspoon): Intensifies the onion flavor.
- Garlic powder (½ teaspoon): Infuses the meatballs with a warm, aromatic depth.
- Italian seasoning (1 teaspoon): A blend of herbs that rounds out the savory profile.
- Large egg (1): Acts as a binder to hold the meatballs together beautifully.
- Marinara sauce (16 ounces): The rich tomato base that coats every tender meatball.
- Hoagie rolls (4): Soft, sturdy rolls that cradle the meatballs and sauce perfectly.
- Mozzarella cheese (2 cups shredded): Melts delightfully over the meatballs for that classic gooey topping.
- Chopped fresh basil and/or Italian parsley: For a fresh, colorful finish that brightens the dish.
How to Make Meatball Subs Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and bake the meatballs
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking. This step ensures your meatballs cook evenly and develop those golden, crispy edges that give a perfect contrast in texture.
Step 2: Combine the meatball ingredients
In a large bowl, mix together the ground beef, finely chopped onion, fresh parsley, salt, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, onion powder, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and one large egg. Mixing until just combined helps keep the meatballs tender and juicy. Be careful not to overwork the meat.
Step 3: Form meatballs and bake
Roll the mixture into 16 uniform balls to ensure even cooking. Place them spaced out on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 12-15 minutes until they reach an internal temperature of 160°F and have a nicely browned exterior.
Step 4: Warm the marinara sauce
While the meatballs bake, gently heat the marinara sauce over low to medium heat in a saucepan. Keeping the sauce warm and ready is key to building those luscious subs.
Step 5: Simmer meatballs in sauce
Once the meatballs are cooked, carefully transfer them to the simmering marinara sauce. Let them soak for a few minutes so every bite is rich and saucy. This step is where the magic of the Meatball Subs Recipe truly comes alive.
Step 6: Assemble the subs
Slice your hoagie rolls lengthwise, spooning four meatballs each along with plenty of sauce. Generous amounts of shredded mozzarella cheese go straight on top for that irresistible melty finish.
Step 7: Broil for the perfect finish
Place the assembled subs under the broiler for just a couple of minutes until the cheese bubbles and turns golden. Keep a close eye here so they don’t burn, since broilers can work quickly!
Step 8: Garnish and serve
Finish by sprinkling with fresh chopped basil and/or Italian parsley for a pop of color and freshness that balances out the richness beautifully.
How to Serve Meatball Subs Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like basil or Italian parsley are the perfect finale to these hearty sandwiches. They add brightness and a touch of fresh earthiness that cuts through the cheesy, meaty richness effortlessly.
Side Dishes
Pair your meatball subs with crispy fries, a crisp green salad, or even some roasted vegetables for a well-rounded meal that’s as satisfying as it is delicious. The contrast of textures and flavors makes every bite more exciting.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try serving open-faced subs on toasted baguette slices for party platters. You can also offer a variety of cheeses or spicy peppers on the side to let everyone customize their sandwiches. Presentation can turn a simple meal into a memorable experience.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover meatballs and sauce store beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Keep the rolls separate if possible to avoid sogginess, then assemble fresh subs when ready to eat.
Freezing
This Meatball Subs Recipe freezes wonderfully! Freeze cooked meatballs and sauce in a sealed container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating for a quick, tasty meal on busy days.
Reheating
Reheat meatballs gently on the stovetop or in the microwave with sauce to keep them moist. Once warmed, reassemble the subs and melt the cheese under the broiler or in a toaster oven for that freshly made experience.
FAQs
Can I use other meats besides ground beef?
Absolutely! This Meatball Subs Recipe works great with ground turkey, chicken, or a mix of your favorites. Just adjust cooking times as needed to ensure the meatballs are cooked through.
What if I don’t have hoagie rolls?
No problem at all. Submarine rolls, hot dog buns, or even sturdy sandwich bread make excellent alternatives. Just pick something that can hold up to the juicy meatballs and sauce without falling apart.
Can I make the meatballs ahead of time?
Yes, you can form and bake the meatballs a day ahead, then refrigerate them until you’re ready to assemble the subs. This is a great way to save time if you’re preparing for a crowd.
How can I make the subs spicier?
Add crushed red pepper flakes to the meat mixture or sprinkle some on top before serving. You can also choose a spicy marinara sauce or add sliced jalapeños for an extra kick.
What type of cheese is best for melting on meatball subs?
Mozzarella is the classic choice because it melts beautifully and has a mild flavor, but provolone or Parmesan also work well if you want a slightly different taste.
Final Thoughts
This Meatball Subs Recipe is a tried-and-true winner that blends simplicity with incredible flavor. It’s the kind of meal that feels like a warm hug, perfect for sharing with friends and family. I can’t wait for you to make it your own and discover just how satisfying homemade meatball subs can be.
Print
Meatball Subs Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 subs
- Category: Sandwiches
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
Delicious homemade Meatball Subs made with tender, savory meatballs baked to perfection, smothered in rich marinara sauce, and topped with melted mozzarella cheese. Perfectly assembled in hoagie rolls and finished under the broiler for a gooey, crispy topping.
Ingredients
Meatballs
- 1 pound 85% lean ground beef (substitute with leaner beef, turkey, or chicken if preferred)
- ½ onion, finely chopped
- ¼ cup chopped fresh Italian parsley
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt (reduce by half if using finer salt like sea salt or table salt)
- ½ cup breadcrumbs (Italian or panko breadcrumbs work well)
- â…“ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 large egg
Sauce and Assembly
- 16 ounces marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade – about 1 jar)
- 4 hoagie rolls (submarine rolls or hot dog buns can also be used)
- 2 cups freshly shredded mozzarella cheese (or substitute with Parmesan or provolone)
- Chopped fresh basil and/or Italian parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Prepare Meatball Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, finely chopped onion, fresh Italian parsley, kosher salt, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, onion powder, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and the egg. Mix until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Form Meatballs: Roll the mixture into 16 evenly sized meatballs, about 1 to 1.5 inches each, and place them spaced out on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake Meatballs: Bake in the preheated oven for 12 to 15 minutes until the edges are crispy and the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C), ensuring they are fully cooked.
- Heat Marinara Sauce: While the meatballs are baking, warm the marinara sauce in a large saucepan over low to medium heat until heated through.
- Coat Meatballs in Sauce: Once meatballs are done, add them to the saucepan with the marinara sauce and gently coat them evenly with the sauce.
- Assemble Subs: Spoon four sauced meatballs into each hoagie roll, distributing the sauce evenly. Generously top each with shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Broil Sandwiches: Place the assembled subs under the broiler for 1 to 3 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Watch carefully to prevent burning.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from oven and sprinkle with chopped fresh basil and/or Italian parsley before serving hot.
Notes
- Use lean ground beef or substitute with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
- Adjust salt quantity based on salt type used to prevent oversalting.
- Breadcrumbs can be Italian seasoned or plain; panko adds a lighter texture.
- Keep an eye on the subs under the broiler as cheese can burn quickly.
- Fresh herbs add a bright finish but can be omitted if unavailable.
