If you’ve ever dreamed of the ultimate comfort food that combines juicy, flavorful meatballs with melty cheese and tangy marinara sauce all hugged by a soft, fresh roll, then this Meatball Subs Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s a crowd-pleaser that feels like a warm hug in sandwich form, perfect for family dinners or sharing with friends. Each bite bursts with Italian-inspired goodness, making this recipe an unbeatable classic that’s simple to prepare yet incredibly satisfying.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Meatball Subs Recipe comes down to a handful of straightforward, quality ingredients that work together to create incredible layers of flavor, texture, and color. Every item on this list plays a unique role, whether it’s adding moisture, seasoning, or that luxurious cheesy finish.
- Ground beef: The hearty base that brings savory richness to the meatballs.
- Breadcrumbs: Essential for keeping the meatballs tender and perfectly shaped.
- Egg: Acts as a binder, holding all the meatball ingredients together with ease.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a sharp, salty flavor and depth.
- Garlic, minced: Infuses a fragrant, savory punch.
- Dried oregano and basil: Classic Italian herbs to elevate the flavor profile.
- Salt and pepper: Season to perfection; the simplest way to enhance every element.
- Fresh parsley, chopped: Brings a fresh, bright note to the meatball mixture.
- Olive oil: For frying the meatballs to a golden, delicious crust.
- Hoagie rolls: Soft, sturdy rolls that cradle every meaty, saucy bite.
- Marinara sauce: The vibrant, tangy sauce that keeps the meatballs juicy.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully, providing creamy, gooey goodness.
- Additional grated Parmesan cheese (optional): Perfect for extra cheesy indulgence on top.
- Fresh parsley or basil: For garnish, adding color and freshness to each serving.
How to Make Meatball Subs Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Meatballs
Start by combining the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, dried oregano, dried basil, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. Take care not to overmix; you want the ingredients just combined to keep the meatballs tender. Then, shape the mixture into small 1-inch meatballs—uniform size ensures even cooking and a perfectly balanced bite every time.
Step 2: Cook the Meatballs
Heat a generous splash of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Fry the meatballs in batches, turning them so they brown evenly on all sides. The goal here is a golden crust while keeping the interior juicy and cooked through, which should take about 8 to 10 minutes per batch. Once they’re done, transfer the meatballs to paper towels to drain any excess oil.
Step 3: Heat the Marinara Sauce
While the meatballs rest, warm your marinara sauce in a saucepan over medium heat. Add the cooked meatballs to the sauce and let them simmer gently for 10 minutes. This step allows the meatballs to soak up the tangy flavors of the sauce while staying tender and moist. The aroma at this stage is simply irresistible!
Step 4: Assemble the Subs
Preheat your oven’s broiler to high and line a baking sheet with foil for easy cleanup. Cut your hoagie rolls open lengthwise and scoop the warm meatballs and marinara sauce equally into each roll. Make sure to spread the sauce generously to coat every bite. Then, top each sub with the shredded mozzarella cheese and sprinkle additional grated Parmesan if you’re feeling extra cheesy.
Step 5: Melt the Cheese
Place the assembled sandwiches under the broiler for 2 to 3 minutes. Watch closely as the cheese melts into a bubbly, golden layer. This final step is what transforms a great sandwich into a spectacular one, with every forkful bringing ooey-gooey delight combined with robust meatball flavor.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Once out of the oven, sprinkle fresh parsley or basil over the subs for a burst of color and herbaceous brightness. Serve immediately while piping hot, and enjoy the comforting, irresistible flavors of this classic Meatball Subs Recipe.
How to Serve Meatball Subs Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like parsley or basil not only add a pop of green but also brighten the rich flavors of the sandwich. A light dusting of extra Parmesan cheese can add a sharp, nutty depth that makes each bite more complex and satisfying.
Side Dishes
Pair your meatball subs with crispy fries, a simple green salad with vinaigrette, or even a side of roasted vegetables. These light sides balance the heartiness of the sandwich and add contrasting textures, making your meal feel complete and thoughtfully prepared.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving meatball subs as sliders on mini rolls for parties or game days — they’re perfectly bite-sized and fun to eat. Another creative twist is to add sautéed peppers or caramelized onions inside the sub for extra sweetness and crunch. You can also experiment with different cheeses like provolone for a smokier flavor profile.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover meatball subs can be wrapped tightly in foil or plastic wrap and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To keep the buns from getting soggy, store the meatballs and rolls separately if possible, and assemble or reheat just before eating.
Freezing
This Meatball Subs Recipe freezes beautifully. Freeze the cooked meatballs in marinara sauce in an airtight container for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat slowly on the stove or in the microwave before assembling the sandwich with fresh bread and cheese.
Reheating
For the best results, reheat your assembled sub in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until warmed through and the cheese is melty again. Avoid microwaving fully assembled subs if you want to keep the bread from becoming too soft or soggy.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef in this Meatball Subs Recipe?
Absolutely! Ground turkey makes a leaner option and works well—just be sure to keep the meat moist by not overmixing and adding enough breadcrumbs and seasonings to keep great flavor and texture.
How can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Swap the meatballs for vegetarian or vegan meatballs available in most grocery stores or try homemade lentil or mushroom-based meatballs. The marinara and cheese options remain the same for delicious results.
What’s the best bread for meatball subs?
A soft, slightly chewy hoagie roll is classic because it holds the meatballs and sauce without falling apart. You can also use baguettes or ciabatta rolls for a crunchier twist.
Can I make the meatballs in advance?
Yes! Meatballs can be made and cooked a day ahead, then simmered in sauce just before serving. This makes assembly quick and stress-free.
How do I prevent the sub rolls from getting soggy?
To avoid sogginess, toast the rolls lightly before assembling, and consider serving sauce on the side for dipping or adding just enough sauce to coat the meatballs, not soak the bread.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about the simplicity and heartiness of a classic Meatball Subs Recipe. It’s the kind of meal that brings people together around the table with smiles and satisfied sighs. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a casual weekend treat, I promise this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your home. So go ahead, make it your own, and share the delicious joy of meatball subs with those you love!
Print
Meatball Subs Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4-6 servings
- Category: Sandwiches
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
These classic Meatball Subs are a delicious and hearty sandwich featuring homemade seasoned meatballs simmered in marinara sauce, topped with melted mozzarella cheese, and served on soft hoagie rolls. Perfect for a comforting meal that the whole family will enjoy.
Ingredients
Meatballs
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- Olive oil, for frying
Subs Assembly
- 4–6 hoagie rolls (or any soft sub rolls)
- 2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (or provolone)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Fresh parsley or basil for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Meatballs: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, dried oregano, dried basil, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined to avoid tough meatballs. Roll the mixture into 1-inch diameter meatballs.
- Cook the Meatballs: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Fry the meatballs in batches, turning occasionally, until browned on all sides and cooked through, about 8-10 minutes. Remove and drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.
- Heat the Marinara Sauce: Warm the marinara sauce in a saucepan over medium heat. Add the cooked meatballs to the sauce and let them simmer together for 10 minutes so the flavors meld beautifully.
- Assemble the Subs: Preheat your oven’s broiler to high. Slice open the hoagie rolls and place them on a baking sheet. Spoon meatballs and marinara sauce evenly into each roll. Top with shredded mozzarella cheese and, if desired, sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese.
- Melt the Cheese: Place the assembled subs under the broiler for 2-3 minutes or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden. Watch carefully to prevent burning.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the subs from the oven and garnish with freshly chopped parsley or basil. Serve immediately while hot for a delicious, satisfying meal.
Notes
- For juicier meatballs, avoid overmixing the meat mixture.
- Use fresh herbs if possible for more vibrant flavor.
- You can substitute beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
- Serve with a side of chips or a fresh green salad to complete the meal.
- Leftover meatballs can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months.
