Meatball Sub Recipe

If you’re looking for a comforting meal that brings everyone together, this Meatball Sub Recipe is just what you need! There’s something magical about warm, cheesy meatballs nestled in a soft sub roll. This recipe has been a family favorite for years, perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. Whether it’s movie nights with the kids, a lively game day with friends, or a cozy pool party, these meatball subs are sure to be a hit!

What truly makes this recipe special is the love that goes into each homemade meatball. The combination of fresh ingredients and Italian spices creates an irresistible flavor that will have everyone coming back for seconds. So let’s dive into this deliciousness together!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to make: With just 15 minutes of prep time and 20 minutes of cooking, you’ll have dinner ready in no time!
• Family-friendly: Everyone loves meatballs! This recipe is sure to please picky eaters and adventurous foodies alike.
• Perfect for any occasion: From casual dinners to festive gatherings, these meatball subs fit right in.
• Customizable: Feel free to get creative! You can easily adapt the ingredients to suit your taste.
• Melt-in-your-mouth goodness: The combination of melted cheese and savory marinara makes each bite unforgettable.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully in this Meatball Sub Recipe. You’ll find everything you need at your local grocery store!

For the Meatballs

• 1 lb ground beef
• ½ cup Italian bread crumbs
• 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese (plus more for topping)
• 1 egg
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• ½ teaspoon dried basil
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
• ¼ teaspoon fresh ground black pepper

For Assembly

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

Variations

One of the best things about this Meatball Sub Recipe is how flexible it is! Feel free to switch things up based on your preferences or what’s in your pantry.

• Swap the protein: Try using ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
• Add veggies: Mix in some finely chopped bell peppers or onions into the meatball mixture for added flavor and nutrition.
• Change the cheese: If you’re not a fan of mozzarella, provolone or even cheddar works great!
• Make it spicy: Add some crushed red pepper flakes to the marinara sauce for an extra kick.

How to Make Meatball Sub Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Meatballs

In a large bowl, mix the ground beef, Italian breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, egg, oregano, basil, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Rolling them into 1-inch meatballs ensures they cook evenly and stay juicy.

Step 2: Brown the Meatballs

In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the meatballs on all sides. This step adds delicious flavor through caramelization. After browning them nicely, drain any excess grease before adding in the marinara sauce. Let it simmer over medium-low heat for about 15 minutes; this allows those flavors to melt together beautifully.

Step 3: Toast the Sub Rolls

While your meatballs are simmering away in their flavorful sauce, split and butter your sub rolls before lightly toasting them under the broiler. This gives them that delightful crunchy texture that perfectly contrasts with the tender meatballs.

Step 4: Assemble Your Subs

Spread half of the shredded mozzarella cheese over the bottom of each toasted roll. Next, place five meatballs in each roll—don’t be shy! Top them off with more cheese before broiling just until it’s melted and lightly browned. Watching that cheese bubble is pure joy!

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

If desired, sprinkle additional Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley on top for extra flavor and garnish. Serve promptly while they’re warm and melty—trust me; everyone will be eager to dig in!

Pro Tips for Making Meatball Sub Recipe

Making the perfect meatball sub is all about the little details, and these pro tips will help you elevate your dish to the next level!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh herbs and high-quality marinara sauce can make a world of difference in flavor. They add depth and richness that pre-packaged ingredients might lack.
• Don’t skip browning the meatballs: Browning your meatballs before simmering them in the sauce adds a delicious layer of flavor through caramelization. Trust me; it’s worth the extra step!
• Customize the heat: If you enjoy a bit of spice, consider adding red pepper flakes to your marinara sauce. This gives your subs a delightful kick that can be adjusted based on your family’s preferences.
• Let them rest: After broiling your meatball subs, let them sit for a few minutes before serving. This helps the cheese set slightly and makes them easier to eat without everything sliding out.
• Experiment with cheeses: While mozzarella is classic, mixing in provolone or even pepper jack cheese can give your subs a unique twist that keeps everyone guessing!

How to Serve Meatball Sub Recipe

Presenting your meatball subs with flair can turn an ordinary meal into something special! Here are some creative ways to serve this delightful dish.

Garnishes

• Fresh herbs: A sprinkle of chopped parsley or basil on top not only adds color but also brings freshness to each bite.
• Extra cheese: Drizzling a bit of melted cheese over the top before serving creates an indulgent finish that will have everyone coming back for more.

Side Dishes

• Garlic bread: Crunchy garlic bread complements the soft texture of meatball subs perfectly and adds another layer of flavor to your meal.
• Caesar salad: A crisp Caesar salad provides a refreshing contrast to the hearty meatballs and cheesy goodness, making for a well-rounded dining experience.
• Roasted vegetables: Lightly seasoned roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and carrots offer a healthy side that balances out the richness of the subs.
• Potato wedges: Crispy potato wedges are always a hit! They’re easy to share and perfect for dipping into any extra marinara sauce you might have left over.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, you’re ready to impress your family and friends with an unforgettable meatball sub experience! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This meatball sub recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can make the meatballs in advance, store them, and simply assemble your subs when you’re ready to enjoy. Here’s how to keep your delicious creations fresh.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the meatball subs to cool completely before storing.
• Place leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge.
• Consume within 3-4 days for the best flavor and quality.

Freezing

• Prepare the meatballs and sauce as per the recipe.
• Allow them to cool, then place in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. For easy meals, consider freezing individual portions.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen meatballs and sauce overnight in the refrigerator.
• Heat gently on the stove over low heat until warmed through.
• For subs, you can re-broil just until cheese is melted or use a microwave for quick reheating.

FAQs

If you’re curious about making this delicious meatball sub recipe, here are some common questions!

Can I use turkey instead of beef for this meatball sub recipe?

Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lean alternative that will still give you juicy meatballs. Just follow the same cooking instructions!

What toppings pair well with a meatball sub?

You can enhance your meatball sub by adding sliced jalapeños, roasted red peppers, or even a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes for some heat.

How do I make my own marinara sauce for this meatball sub recipe?

Making homemade marinara is simple! Just sauté garlic and onions in olive oil, then add crushed tomatoes, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Simmer until thickened!

Can I prepare the meatballs ahead of time?

Yes! You can make the meatballs up to 24 hours in advance. Store them in an airtight container in the fridge until you’re ready to cook.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this comforting meatball sub recipe as much as I do! It’s not only delicious but also easy to customize for your family’s taste buds. Whether it’s movie night or a cozy dinner at home, these subs are sure to bring smiles all around. Happy cooking!