Meatball Sub Sandwiches

Name: Meatball Sub Sandwiches
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 lb lean ground beef; 1 cup Italian breadcrumbs; ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese; ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped; 1 tsp salt; ½ tsp black pepper; 2 cups marinara sauce (jarred or homemade); 4 sturdy sub rolls; 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

Published: April 5, 2025

by mimi

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This Meatball Sub Sandwich recipe is simple and quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights
The flavor profile marries savory meatballs with zesty marinara sauce and creamy cheese
Visually appealing with layers of colors and textures, these subs make any meal feel special
You can easily customize toppings and sauces for endless variations

I once had a friend who proclaimed he could eat these sandwiches every single day without getting tired of them. I admit I might be right there with him.

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Ground Beef: Choose lean ground beef for juicy meatballs without excess grease.
Italian Breadcrumbs: These add a delightful crunch and absorb moisture while cooking.
Parmesan Cheese: A sprinkle of grated Parmesan adds depth to the flavor of your meatballs.
Fresh Parsley: Chopped parsley gives a fresh touch and brightens up the dish.
Marinara Sauce: Use your favorite jarred or homemade sauce for that authentic Italian flavor.
Sub Rolls: Opt for sturdy sub rolls that can hold all those delicious fillings without falling apart.
Mozzarella Cheese: Gooey melted mozzarella takes these sandwiches over the top don’t skimp on it

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Prepare Your Meatballs: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper until everything is well mixed but not overworked.

Shape the Meatballs: Roll the mixture into golf ball-sized meatballs aim for about 1 inch in diameter. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

Bake the Meatballs: Pop those beauties into your preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes until browned and cooked through. The smell will be heavenly you may want to do a little victory dance.

Heat Up the Marinara Sauce: While the meatballs bake, pour marinara sauce into a saucepan over medium heat. Stir occasionally until warmed through this step is essential because nobody wants cold sauce on their hot sandwich

Assemble Your Subs: In each sub roll, place 3-4 meatballs generously covered in marinara sauce. Don’t be shy here let those meatballs swim Add shredded mozzarella on top of each one.

Bake Again : Place your assembled sandwich back in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 5-10 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. Keep an eye on them we don’t want burnt sandwiches ruining our masterpiece

And voilà You’ve made scrumptious Meatball Sub Sandwiches that are sure to impress family and friends alike. Just don’t forget napkins they’re going to need them

Enjoy these delightful creations at any gathering or cozy dinner night at home they’re guaranteed to bring everyone together around the table

You Must Know

Mastering meatball sub sandwiches requires a balance of flavors and textures
Ensure your meatballs are juicy but firm, and don’t skimp on the marinara it’s the star of the show These subs are all about that delightful blend of cheesy goodness and savory sauce

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by baking your meatballs for 20-25 minutes until golden brown, then simmer them in marinara sauce for extra flavor before assembling the subs. This method ensures a juicy filling and a rich sauce.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to switch up the bread type or cheese to match your taste. Try adding sautéed peppers or onions for an extra crunch, or even jalapeños if you’re feeling adventurous

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover meatball sub components separately in airtight containers. Reheat by microwaving for a quick fix or placing in the oven at 350°F until warmed through for the best texture.

Chef's Helpful Tips

When making meatball sub sandwiches, ensure meatballs are uniform in size for even cooking
Always toast your bread lightly for added crunch
Experiment with cheese types provolone adds a buttery touch while mozzarella melts beautifully

Sometimes, my friends ask for seconds on these subs, leaving me wondering if it’s the meatballs or my charming company. Either way, I’ll take it

FAQs

FAQ

What kind of bread is best for meatball sub sandwiches?

A crusty Italian roll or hoagie bun works perfectly for holding all those delicious fillings.

Can I use frozen meatballs instead of homemade?

Absolutely Just heat them thoroughly in marinara before assembling your sub.

How do I prevent my meatball sub from getting soggy?

To avoid sogginess, layer cheese between the bread and sauce, creating a moisture barrier.