If you have a craving for something comforting, hearty, and downright delicious, this Meatball Subs Recipe will not disappoint. It brings together juicy, tender meatballs simmered in rich marinara sauce, all nestled inside a soft, toasted hoagie roll layered with gooey melted cheese. Every bite bursts with Italian-inspired flavors that feel like a warm hug, making it a perfect meal to enjoy any day of the week. Whether you’re making lunch for the family or hosting friends, these subs are sure to become a beloved classic in your recipe collection.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering these simple, fresh ingredients is the first step to creating a Meatball Subs Recipe that’s packed with flavor and texture. Each component plays a vital role, from the savory ground beef to the aromatic herbs that elevate the overall taste.
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef: The base of your meatballs, providing juicy richness.
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs: Helps bind the meatballs and keep them tender.
- 1 egg: Acts as a glue to hold the mixture together without making it dense.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a sharp, nutty depth of flavor inside the meatballs.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the meatballs with fragrant, savory warmth.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Classic Italian herb that complements the beef wonderfully.
- 1 teaspoon dried basil: Adds a sweet, slightly peppery note for balance.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential for seasoning and enhancing all flavors.
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped: Brightens the meatballs with herbal freshness.
- Olive oil, for frying: Provides the perfect medium for browning the meatballs beautifully.
- 4-6 hoagie rolls (or any soft sub rolls): Soft and sturdy carriers of all the juicy goodness.
- 2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade): Rich and tangy, it keeps the meatballs saucy and moist.
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (or provolone): Melts into a dreamy, gooey topping.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional): Sprinkled on top for an extra flavor punch.
- Fresh parsley or basil for garnish: Adds color and a fresh herbal aroma just before serving.
How to Make Meatball Subs Recipe
Step 1: Mix and Form Meatballs
Start by combining the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, garlic, oregano, basil, parsley, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. Gently mix everything together until just combined to avoid a tough texture. Then, roll the mixture into small, uniform meatballs roughly an inch in diameter so they cook evenly and fit perfectly in your subs.
Step 2: Brown the Meatballs
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Fry the meatballs in batches, turning them every few minutes to get a nice golden-brown crust all around. This step not only locks in moisture but also adds incredible flavor. Once cooked through after about 8 to 10 minutes, transfer them to paper towels to drain excess oil.
Step 3: Simmer in Marinara Sauce
Warm the marinara sauce in a saucepan over medium heat and gently add the cooked meatballs. Let everything simmer together for a good 10 minutes. This infuses the meatballs with the tangy tomato sauce and melds all the herbs and spices perfectly to create that classic Meatball Subs Recipe taste.
Step 4: Assemble the Subs
Preheat your oven’s broiler to high. Place the hoagie rolls on a baking tray and slice them open lengthwise. Spoon the saucy meatballs evenly into each roll, making sure they are nicely coated and filled. Then sprinkle generous amounts of shredded mozzarella on top, and if you’re feeling extra cheesy, add Parmesan as well.
Step 5: Broil to Perfection
Pop the assembled subs under the broiler for 2 to 3 minutes until the cheese melts to bubbly, golden perfection. Keep a close eye on them to avoid burning, but that slightly crispy, cheesy topping is what makes this Meatball Subs Recipe shine.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Once out of the oven, sprinkle fresh parsley or basil on top to add a burst of color and freshness. Serve your Meatball Subs Recipe piping hot so you can savor every melty, flavorful bite.
How to Serve Meatball Subs Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like parsley or basil add a lovely pop of color and a hint of herbal brightness that contrasts nicely with the rich meat and cheese. You can also sprinkle a little extra Parmesan cheese or a dash of red pepper flakes for some heat if you like a bit of spice.
Side Dishes
This hearty sandwich pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad, some crunchy coleslaw, or classic French fries. You could also serve it with roasted vegetables or a bowl of warm soup for a comforting combo.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, cut your Meatball Subs Recipe into smaller sliders, perfect for parties or casual gatherings. You can even bake the meatballs ahead, then assemble and broil right before serving to save time while keeping the flavors fresh.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any leftover meatball subs can be wrapped tightly in foil or plastic wrap and refrigerated for up to 3 days. Make sure to store them separately from any salad or fresh garnishes to keep everything at its best.
Freezing
If you want to freeze your meatballs before assembling the subs, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until firm, then transfer to an airtight container or zip-top bag. They’ll keep well for up to 3 months and can be thawed overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, place the subs in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) wrapped loosely in foil until warmed through, about 15 minutes. For the freshest texture, you can add fresh cheese and broil for 1-2 minutes after reheating to revive the melty topping.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey works well and is a leaner option. Just be careful not to overcook as it can dry out faster than beef.
Is it okay to use store-bought marinara sauce?
Yes, store-bought marinara sauce is a great shortcut and adds plenty of flavor. Feel free to enhance it with extra herbs or a pinch of sugar if it tastes too acidic.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Definitely. Substitute the breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs and use gluten-free rolls to keep everything safe for those with gluten sensitivities.
How do I prevent the rolls from getting soggy?
Using sturdy hoagie rolls and not overloading them with sauce helps a lot. Another tip is to toast or lightly grill the rolls before assembling to create a barrier against sogginess.
Can these meatballs be made in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the meatballs ahead of time, freeze or refrigerate them, and then warm them up in sauce when ready to assemble your subs. It’s a great way to save time on busy days.
Final Thoughts
This Meatball Subs Recipe is a timeless crowd-pleaser that never fails to satisfy those comforting food cravings. Its blend of juicy meatballs, vibrant sauce, and melted cheese creates a mouthwatering experience you’ll want to make again and again. I truly hope you enjoy making and sharing this recipe as much as I do. Give it a try and watch everyone’s faces light up after just one delicious bite!
Print
Meatball Subs Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4-6 servings
- Category: Sandwich
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
Delicious and hearty Meatball Subs made with tender homemade beef meatballs simmered in marinara sauce, topped with melted mozzarella cheese, and served in soft hoagie rolls. Perfect for a satisfying meal that combines classic Italian flavors with a comforting sandwich style.
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
- 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 meatball mixture: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, dried oregano, dried basil, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix. Roll the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.
- 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 the meatballs and drain them on paper towels.
- Simmer meatballs in sauce: In a saucepan, heat the marinara sauce over medium heat. Add the cooked meatballs to the sauce and simmer for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Assemble the subs: Preheat your oven’s broiler on high. Place the hoagie rolls on a baking sheet and open them up. Spoon the meatballs and marinara sauce into each roll, ensuring an even distribution. Top with shredded mozzarella cheese and sprinkle grated Parmesan on top if desired.
- Broil the subs: Place the subs under the broiler for 2-3 minutes or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden. Keep a close eye to prevent burning.
- Garnish and serve: Remove the meatball subs from the oven and garnish with freshly chopped parsley or basil. Serve hot.
Notes
- Be careful not to overmix the meatball mixture to keep the meatballs tender.
- You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
- Use fresh herbs if available for a brighter flavor.
- Keep a close watch while broiling to avoid burning the cheese.
- Serve with a side salad or chips for a complete meal.
