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Best Meatball Sub Recipe

Best Meatball Sub Recipe

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4.8 from 78 reviews

This classic Meatball Sub recipe features juicy homemade meatballs, savory marinara sauce, and gooey melted mozzarella, all nestled in toasted sub rolls. Perfect for family dinners, movie nights, or parties, these crowd-pleasing sandwiches deliver Italian-inspired comfort in every bite.

  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

For the Meatballs

  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1/2 cup Italian bread crumbs
  • 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese (plus more for topping)
  • 1 egg
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon fresh ground black pepper

For the Sauce and Sandwich

  • 2 cups marinara or pasta sauce
  • 4 sub rolls
  • 1.5 cups finely shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh Italian parsley or fresh basil (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Mix and Shape Meatballs: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, Italian bread crumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, dried oregano, dried basil, onion powder, garlic powder, kosher salt, and black pepper. Mix until just combined, then roll the mixture into 1-inch meatballs.
  2. Brown Meatballs: Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs and brown them on all sides, turning occasionally to get even color. Once browned, drain any excess grease.
  3. Simmer in Marinara: Pour the marinara or pasta sauce into the skillet with the browned meatballs. Stir gently, then lower the heat to medium-low and simmer for 15 minutes, allowing flavors to meld and meatballs to cook through.
  4. Prepare and Toast Rolls: While the meatballs are simmering, split the sub rolls and optionally butter them. Toast the rolls under the broiler until golden and crisp.
  5. Assemble Subs: Sprinkle half of the shredded mozzarella cheese onto the bottom half of each toasted roll. Arrange about 5 hot meatballs into each roll. Spoon extra sauce over the meatballs if desired, then top with the remaining mozzarella cheese.
  6. Broil and Serve: Place the assembled sandwiches under the broiler and heat just until the cheese is melted and lightly browned. Remove from the oven, sprinkle with additional Parmesan cheese and chopped herbs if desired, and serve promptly.

Notes

  • You can use meatless or homemade marinara sauce for a different flavor profile.
  • For extra flavor, spread garlic butter on the buns before toasting.
  • Try alternative cheeses such as provel, fontina, or provolone for variation.
  • Top with freshly grated Parmesan or fresh herbs for garnish; a little red pepper flakes adds a kick.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge and reheat gently in the microwave for best texture.
  • Author: Sophia
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Main-course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American-Italian
  • Diet: Halal

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 sandwich
  • Calories: 705 kcal
  • Sugar: 10 g
  • Sodium: 1619 mg
  • Fat: 37 g
  • Saturated Fat: 15 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 15 g
  • Trans Fat: 1 g
  • Carbohydrates: 52 g
  • Fiber: 4 g
  • Protein: 40 g
  • Cholesterol: 157 mg

Find it online: https://sophiasplate.com/best-meatball-sub-recipe/