Description
These classic Meatball Subs are a comforting Italian-American favorite featuring tender homemade meatballs simmered in rich marinara sauce, nestled in soft sub rolls, and topped with melted mozzarella cheese. Perfect for a hearty lunch or dinner, they bring together savory flavors and gooey cheese in every bite.
Ingredients
Scale
Meatballs
- 1 pound ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Sauce and Assembly
- 1 (24 oz) jar marinara or pasta sauce
- 4 sub rolls or hoagie buns
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- Optional: fresh basil, extra Parmesan, or red pepper flakes for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Meatball Mixture: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, egg, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Mix gently until just combined to keep the meatballs tender.
- Form and Bake Meatballs: Shape the mixture into 12–16 small meatballs and place them evenly spaced on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 18–20 minutes, or until meatballs are browned and cooked through.
- Simmer Meatballs in Sauce: While meatballs bake, heat the marinara sauce in a large saucepan over medium heat. After baking, transfer the meatballs into the sauce and let them simmer for 5–10 minutes to absorb the flavors.
- Assemble Subs: Split the sub rolls and place them cut side up on a baking sheet. Spoon 3–4 meatballs along with sauce into each roll. Generously top each with shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Bake to Melt Cheese: Return the assembled subs to the oven and bake for 5–7 minutes until the mozzarella is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from oven and garnish with fresh basil, extra Parmesan cheese, or red pepper flakes if desired. Serve hot for a delicious meal.
Notes
- For extra texture, toast the sub buns lightly before assembling the meatballs.
- Use frozen pre-made meatballs as a time-saving shortcut; simply bake and simmer them in the marinara sauce before assembling.
- You can substitute ground pork or a mix of meats for different flavor profiles.
- Try adding red pepper flakes into the sauce for a spicy kick.
