Meatball Subs Recipe

Introduction

Meatball subs are a comforting classic, perfect for a satisfying lunch or dinner. Juicy homemade meatballs simmered in rich marinara sauce, topped with melted cheese, and nestled inside a soft hoagie roll make for an irresistible meal.

Ingredients

• 1 pound 85% lean ground beef (or leaner beef, turkey, or chicken)
• ½ onion, finely chopped
• ¼ cup chopped fresh Italian parsley
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt (reduce by half if using finer salt)
• ½ cup breadcrumbs (Italian or panko work well)
• ⅓ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 large egg
• 16 ounces marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• 4 hoagie rolls (submarine rolls or hot dog buns can be substituted)
• 2 cups freshly shredded mozzarella cheese (or Parmesan or provolone)
• Chopped fresh basil and/or Italian parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Set aside.
2. Step 2: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, finely chopped onion, parsley, kosher salt, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, onion powder, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and egg. Mix gently until well combined.
3. Step 3: Roll the mixture into 16 evenly sized meatballs and place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them out slightly.
4. Step 4: Bake the meatballs for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are crispy and the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
5. Step 5: While the meatballs bake, heat the marinara sauce in a large saucepan over low to medium heat until warmed through.
6. Step 6: Once the meatballs are cooked, transfer them to the saucepan with the marinara sauce and gently coat each meatball in the sauce.
7. Step 7: Split each hoagie roll and spoon four meatballs along with sauce into each one. Top generously with the shredded mozzarella cheese.
8. Step 8: Place the assembled subs under the broiler for 1-3 minutes until the cheese melts and begins to bubble. Watch carefully to prevent burning.
9. Step 9: Remove from the oven and finish with a sprinkle of chopped fresh basil and/or Italian parsley before serving.

Tips & Variations

• For a lighter option, substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken without adjusting cooking time.
• Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the meat mixture for a subtle kick of heat.
• Use provolone or Parmesan cheese instead of mozzarella for a different flavor profile.
• Toast the hoagie rolls lightly before assembling for extra texture and flavor.

Storage

Store leftover meatball subs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave until warmed through to keep the bread from getting soggy. For longer storage, freeze the meatballs and sauce separately for up to 3 months.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make the meatballs ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare and bake the meatballs a day in advance. Store them in the refrigerator and reheat in marinara sauce before assembling the subs.

What can I use if I don’t have hoagie rolls?

Submarine rolls, French bread, or even hot dog buns work well as alternatives for meatball subs.