If you have ever craved that comforting, cheesy, savory sandwich that hits all the right notes, then you are in for a treat with the Best Meatball Sub Recipe. This classic sub brings together juicy, perfectly seasoned meatballs simmered in rich marinara sauce, topped with gooey melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses, all nestled in a toasted sub roll. Each bite overflows with bold flavors and satisfying textures, making it an unbeatable dish for both weeknight dinners and casual gatherings.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To create the ultimate meatball sub, you only need a handful of simple yet essential ingredients. Each one plays a vital role, whether it’s building flavor, creating tender meatballs, or delivering that irresistible cheesy finish and comforting bite.
- 1 lb ground beef: The hearty base that keeps your meatballs tender and juicy.
- 1/2 cup Italian bread crumbs: Adds structure and helps keep the meatballs light.
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese: Enhances the savory depth and adds a subtle saltiness.
- 1 egg: Binds all the meatball ingredients together perfectly.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Brings a warm, herbaceous note that’s classic Italian flair.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil: Adds sweet, peppery undertones to complement the sauce.
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder: Boosts rich savoriness without overpowering the meat.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Because garlic makes everything better!
- 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt: Enhances all the flavors naturally.
- 1/4 teaspoon fresh ground black pepper: Adds just the right amount of heat and spice.
- 2 cups marinara or pasta sauce: The luscious coating that keeps every bite moist and flavorful.
- 4 sub rolls: The perfect sturdy yet soft vessel for your meatball masterpiece.
- 1.5 cups finely shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully for that irresistible gooey topping.
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh Italian parsley or fresh basil (optional): For a fresh, vibrant garnish.
How to Make Best Meatball Sub Recipe
Step 1: Mix and Shape Meatballs
Begin by combining the ground beef, Italian bread crumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, and all the herbs and spices in a large bowl. Mix just until everything comes together to avoid tough meatballs. Then, roll the mixture into roughly 1-inch meatballs—this size ensures they cook evenly and fit perfectly inside your sub rolls.
Step 2: Brown Meatballs
Heat a skillet over medium heat and add the meatballs in a single layer. Brown them on all sides, turning occasionally, until they develop a beautiful golden crust. This step not only locks in the juiciness but also adds a layer of flavor that makes the meatballs truly irresistible. Drain any excess grease before moving on.
Step 3: Simmer in Marinara
Next, pour the marinara sauce right into the skillet with the browned meatballs. Stir gently to coat them, then lower the heat and let everything simmer for 15 minutes. This slow simmer melds the flavors beautifully and ensures the meatballs are cooked through and bursting with deliciousness.
Step 4: Prepare and Toast Rolls
While your meatballs are simmering, split the sub rolls and, if you like, lightly butter them for extra richness. Toast them under the broiler just until golden and crisp on the edges—this adds a delightful contrast to the soft meatballs and melted cheese.
Step 5: Assemble and Broil Subs
Start by sprinkling half of the shredded mozzarella on the bottom halves of your toasted rolls. Nestle around five hot meatballs into each sub, spooning a little extra sauce over them for saucy goodness. Top with the remaining mozzarella cheese and place the assembled sandwiches back under the broiler just until the cheese melts and takes on a light golden brown. Finish with a sprinkle of Parmesan and fresh herbs if you want that extra flavor boost before serving immediately.
How to Serve Best Meatball Sub Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil brightens the hearty meatball subs with a fresh, herbaceous note. A little extra grated Parmesan cheese on top adds a salty, nutty finish that perfectly balances the rich sauce and cheese.
Side Dishes
This Best Meatball Sub Recipe pairs wonderfully with crispy fries, a crunchy side salad, or even a cup of warm soup. The options are endless and can transform the meal into a casual feast or a complete comfort-food experience.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the meatball sub open-faced on a sturdy plate with a side of dipping marinara. Or, slice the subs into smaller portions to make meatball sub sliders—perfect for parties or sharing with friends!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying these delicious subs, wrap any leftovers tightly in foil or place them in airtight containers. Stored in the refrigerator, they will keep well for up to 3 days while maintaining their juicy flavor.
Freezing
You can freeze the cooked meatballs separately in sauce for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply thaw overnight in the fridge. Avoid freezing the assembled sub to maintain the best texture of the bread and cheese.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in the oven or toaster oven to keep the bread crisp and the cheese melty. Heating in the microwave can work in a pinch but may make the bread soggy, so use that method sparingly.
FAQs
Can I use other meats instead of ground beef?
Absolutely! Ground pork, turkey, or a blend of ground meats all work beautifully and can offer slightly different flavors and textures that make your meatball sub uniquely yours.
Is it okay to prepare the meatballs ahead of time?
Yes, preparing the meatballs a day ahead can save time on busy days. Just shape and brown them, then refrigerate before simmering in marinara when you’re ready to serve.
What type of marinara sauce works best?
Use your favorite store-bought sauce or homemade marinara—it’s all about a rich, flavorful tomato base. A sauce with herbs and garlic will complement the meatballs perfectly.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Of course! Use plant-based ground crumbles or make veggie meatballs with beans or lentils and follow the same instructions for an equally delicious sub.
How do I get the cheese to melt perfectly without burning?
Keep a close eye during broiling—just a couple of minutes are usually enough. The goal is to get the cheese melted and slightly bubbly with light browning, not burnt.
Final Thoughts
There is nothing quite like the cozy, satisfying joy of biting into a sub loaded with tender meatballs and melted cheese. This Best Meatball Sub Recipe comes together effortlessly with simple ingredients and straightforward steps, but the result is impressive every single time. I hope you’ll give it a go and discover your new favorite sandwich to enjoy anytime!
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Best Meatball Sub Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Sandwiches
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
This Best Meatball Sub Recipe features juicy homemade meatballs simmered in rich marinara sauce, layered with melted mozzarella cheese, and served in toasted sub rolls. Perfect for a hearty and comforting meal, these subs come together in just 35 minutes and offer classic Italian-American flavors with fresh herbs and Parmesan cheese for added depth.
Ingredients
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
Sauce and Assembly
- 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
- 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 gently until just combined to avoid tough meatballs. Then, roll the mixture into evenly sized 1-inch meatballs.
- Brown Meatballs: Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs carefully and cook them, turning often, until all sides are nicely browned. This step locks in flavor and creates a delicious crust. Drain any excess grease from the skillet once browned.
- Simmer in Marinara: Pour the marinara or pasta sauce into the skillet with the browned meatballs. Stir gently to coat all meatballs with sauce. Reduce heat to medium-low and let everything simmer for 15 minutes so the meatballs cook through and the flavors blend beautifully.
- Prepare and Toast Rolls: While the meatballs are simmering, split the sub rolls lengthwise. Optionally, butter the insides lightly for extra richness. Place the rolls under the broiler until they turn golden brown and crispy, which adds a perfect crunchy texture to the sandwich.
- Assemble Subs: Sprinkle half of the shredded mozzarella evenly onto the bottom halves of each toasted roll. Arrange approximately five hot meatballs per sub on top of the cheese. Spoon extra marinara sauce over the meatballs if desired, then top with the remaining shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Broil and Serve: Place the assembled subs on a baking sheet and return them to the broiler just long enough to melt and lightly brown the mozzarella cheese. Remove from the oven and garnish with additional grated Parmesan and fresh chopped parsley or basil, if using. Serve immediately while hot and melty.
Notes
- Use fresh herbs like parsley or basil to enhance the flavor and add a pop of color.
- For a spicier kick, add crushed red pepper flakes to the meatball mixture or marinara sauce.
- To save time, you can use pre-made meatballs and marinara sauce but fresh homemade yields the best flavor.
- Sub rolls can be toasted in a toaster oven as an alternative to broiling.
- Leftover meatballs and sauce are great for pasta or a quick dinner the next day.
