Best Meatball Sub Recipe

Sink your teeth into pure comfort with the Best Meatball Sub Recipe—a ridiculously satisfying blend of tender homemade meatballs, tangy marinara, creamy melted mozzarella, and aromatic Italian herbs, all tucked into toasted, buttery sub rolls. This crowd-pleaser is a true family favorite, perfect for anything from game day gatherings to cozy nights at home. Best of all, the Best Meatball Sub Recipe is as easy to make as it is delicious, delivering that perfect warmth and gooey-cheesy bite every single time.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Making an unforgettable meatball sub starts with simple, high-quality ingredients. Each element, from the fresh ground beef to the bright, herby finish of parsley, brings its own character to the Best Meatball Sub Recipe, contributing to the ultimate flavor bomb.

• Ground beef (1 lb): The foundation of juicy, flavorful meatballs—choose 80/20 for the perfect balance of moisture and flavor.
• Italian bread crumbs (½ cup): For light, tender meatballs, breadcrumbs help bind and add subtle Italian seasoning.
• Grated Parmesan cheese (2 tablespoons, plus more for topping): Adds a salty, umami-rich depth; don’t skip topping the finished subs for that extra punch.
• Egg (1): Holds the meatball mixture together, keeping each meatball moist and tender.
• Dried oregano (1 teaspoon): Infuses the meatballs with classic Italian aroma and earthiness.
• Dried basil (½ teaspoon): Lends a sweet, slightly peppery note that brightens the overall flavor.
• Onion powder (½ teaspoon): Bringing subtle savoriness without any chopping required.
• Garlic powder (½ teaspoon): Adds instant garlicky warmth throughout each bite.
• Kosher salt (¼ teaspoon): Enhances all the other flavors in the meatballs.
• Fresh ground black pepper (¼ teaspoon): Gives a balanced bite and gentle spice.
• Marinara or pasta sauce (2 cups): Go for your favorite brand or a homemade batch—this sauce bathes the meatballs and adds zesty tang.
• Sub rolls (4): Hearty and soft, these stand up to the saucy filling without getting soggy.
• Finely shredded mozzarella cheese (1½ cups): The key to that ooey-gooey cheese melt; grate fresh for the best meltability.
• Chopped fresh Italian parsley or basil (1 tablespoon, optional): For a bright, herbal pop to finish the Best Meatball Sub Recipe.

How to Make Best Meatball Sub Recipe

Step 1: Mix and Shape the Meatballs

In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, Italian breadcrumbs, Parmesan, egg, oregano, basil, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Use your hands (the best tool for tender meatballs!) to gently blend the mixture until it’s just combined without overworking it. Then, roll into 1-inch meatballs—aim for uniform size so they cook evenly and fit perfectly into the subs.

Step 2: Brown the Meatballs

Heat a large skillet over medium heat and arrange the meatballs in a single layer. Brown them on all sides; don’t rush this part—the caramelization adds a ton of flavor. Once browned, drain off any excess grease so your marinara isn’t overly oily.

Step 3: Simmer in Marinara

Pour the marinara (or pasta) sauce right over the meatballs in the skillet. Simmer everything gently for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the meatballs are cooked through and have soaked up that luscious, garlic-tomato sauce.

Step 4: Toast the Sub Rolls

While your meatballs bubble away, split the sub rolls and slather them with a thin layer of butter (and a sprinkle of garlic powder, if you’re feeling fancy). Pop them under the broiler until golden and just crisp—this step keeps the bread sturdy and infuses extra flavor.

Step 5: Assemble and Melt

Spoon a layer of shredded mozzarella over the bottom of the toasted rolls, then nestle five meatballs into each roll. Drizzle with extra marinara, sprinkle more cheese over the top, and broil again for just a minute or two—just until the cheese is bubbling and lightly browned.

Step 6: Finish and Serve

If you want to impress, shower the hot subs with chopped parsley or basil, along with extra Parmesan. Serve immediately while everything is gloriously gooey and fresh. The Best Meatball Sub Recipe is at its best the moment it’s served!

How to Serve Best Meatball Sub Recipe

Garnishes

Sprinkle the finished subs with finely grated Parmesan, a handful of chopped fresh parsley or basil, and maybe a crack of pepper or red pepper flakes for a little heat. These simple toppings bring bold color, fresh aroma, and just the right pop of flavor to cap off your Best Meatball Sub Recipe.

Side Dishes

Balance the richness of the subs with a crisp Caesar salad, tangy coleslaw, or roasted veggies. For game day or movie night, classic garlic fries or potato chips on the side can really complete this satisfying meal. And don’t forget plenty of napkins—these subs are delectably messy in all the right ways!

Creative Ways to Present

Give the Best Meatball Sub Recipe a playful twist by slicing each sub into smaller pieces for party platters or game day spreads. Or serve “deconstructed” with extra sauce and cheese for dipping. For a weeknight dinner, go family-style: pile everything on a big wooden board and let everyone build their own masterpiece.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftovers, store the meatballs and sauce separately from the bread in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. This helps keep the sub rolls fresh and prevents sogginess. Reheat and assemble just before serving for the best texture.

Freezing

Meatballs and sauce freeze beautifully! Place cooled meatballs and sauce in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge. Wait to assemble the sandwiches with bread and cheese until you’re ready to serve for optimal freshness and melty-cheesy perfection.

Reheating

Reheat meatballs and sauce gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, or in the microwave at 50 percent power to avoid toughening the meat. Once hot, assemble with fresh rolls and cheese, then broil briefly to melt the cheese and refresh the bread’s crispness—so every bite tastes just like you made it from scratch.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?

Absolutely! Both ground turkey and chicken work well in this Best Meatball Sub Recipe. Just be sure to use a version with a bit of fat, so your meatballs stay tender and moist. Amp up the Parmesan and spices if you want to boost the flavor even more.

What’s the best bread for meatball subs?

Look for sturdy, bakery-style sub rolls or hoagie buns that can hold up to saucy meatballs and gooey cheese. Toasting them with butter or garlic butter helps keep the bread crisp and delicious, even with extra marinara in your Best Meatball Sub Recipe.

Can I make the meatballs ahead of time?

Yes, you can prep the meatballs in advance! Shape and brown them, then refrigerate or freeze until you’re ready to simmer in marinara and assemble. This makes weeknight dinners or party prep for the Best Meatball Sub Recipe incredibly easy and stress-free.

Can I add other cheeses?

Definitely try mixing in provolone, fontina, or even a little sharp cheddar along with the mozzarella. The Best Meatball Sub Recipe is endlessly customizable, so you can experiment with your favorite cheese blends for extra flavor.

How do I keep the sub rolls from getting soggy?

Toasting the bread is key! Spread with butter or garlic butter and toast under the broiler until golden before assembling your Best Meatball Sub Recipe. Layer some cheese on the bottom, which melts into a barrier that helps keep the bread blissfully crisp.

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving something cheesy, saucy, and guaranteed to make your family smile, the Best Meatball Sub Recipe truly delivers. It’s simple, satisfying, and just downright fun to make and eat. Give it a try soon and see why this classic never goes out of style!

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