Meatball Sub Recipe

An easy, family-friendly meatball sub recipe made with fresh meatballs, marinara, mozzarella, and Italian spices, all baked to melted perfection and served warm. They are ideal for movie nights, sleepovers, game day, and pool parties. This meatball sub recipe brings comfort food to a whole new level with its rich flavors and gooey cheese.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This meatball sub recipe takes only 35 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavor Explosion: With a blend of Italian spices and gooey mozzarella, every bite is packed with flavor that will satisfy your cravings.
• Versatile Serving Options: Great for various occasions like family gatherings or casual dinners; this dish appeals to both kids and adults alike.
• Easily Customizable: You can add your favorite toppings or substitute ingredients based on your preferences.
• Comfort Food Delight: There’s something special about warm meatballs in a toasted roll that feels like a big hug on a plate.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make this recipe even easier.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• Skillet
• Baking sheet
• Broiler

Importance of Each Tool

• Large mixing bowl: This helps in easily combining all the ingredients for the meatballs without any spills.
• Skillet: A good skillet allows you to brown the meatballs evenly before adding the sauce.
• Baking sheet: Useful for broiling the meatball subs to achieve that perfect melted cheese topping.
• Broiler: A broiler is essential for achieving that delightful golden crust on top of your sub rolls.

Ingredients

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)

How to Make Meatball Sub Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Meatball Mixture

In a large bowl, mix together the ground beef, Italian breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, oregano, basil, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until well combined.

Step 2: Form the Meatballs

Roll the mixture into 1-inch meatballs. Ensure they are all roughly the same size for even cooking.

Step 3: Brown the Meatballs

In a large skillet over medium heat, add the meatballs. Brown them on all sides for about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess grease once browned.

Step 4: Simmer in Marinara Sauce

Pour in the marinara sauce over the browned meatballs. Reduce heat to medium-low and let simmer for about 15 minutes.

Step 5: Toast the Sub Rolls

While the meatballs are simmering, split open each sub roll and butter them lightly. Place them under the broiler until they are golden brown.

Step 6: Assemble Your Subs

Spread half of the shredded mozzarella cheese over the bottom of each toasted roll. Place five meatballs in each roll and top with remaining mozzarella cheese.

Step 7: Broil Until Cheesy Perfection

Return assembled subs to the broiler just until the cheese is melted and lightly browned—keep an eye on them!

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy!

If desired, sprinkle additional Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley on top before serving warm. Enjoy your delicious homemade meatball sub!

How to Serve Meatball Sub Recipe

Serving meatball subs can be a delightful experience, especially when paired with the right sides and beverages. These warm, cheesy sandwiches are perfect for any occasion and can be customized to suit your taste.

With Fresh Salads

• Caesar Salad – Crisp romaine lettuce, parmesan cheese, and croutons tossed in a creamy dressing complement the rich flavors of the meatball sub.
• Caprese Salad – This simple salad of fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil offers a refreshing contrast to the hearty sandwich.

With Crispy Fries

• French Fries – Classic crispy fries are always a favorite and add a satisfying crunch next to your meatball sub.
• Sweet Potato Fries – These provide a sweet twist and pair well with marinara sauce for dipping.

With Dipping Sauces

• Marinara Sauce – Serve extra marinara for dipping; it enhances the meatball flavor and adds extra moisture.
• Ranch Dressing – A cool ranch dressing can balance the richness of the melted cheese in your subs.

With Drinks

• Iced Tea – A refreshing iced tea is a great beverage choice that pairs well with the robust flavors of the meatball sub.
• Soda – A classic cola or root beer can satisfy cravings and provide a fizzy complement to your meal.

How to Perfect Meatball Sub Recipe

To ensure your meatball sub recipe turns out perfectly every time, here are some helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients – Always opt for fresh herbs and high-quality meat. This enhances flavor significantly.
• Don’t Overmix – When combining ingredients for the meatballs, mix just until combined to keep them tender.
• Simmer Gently – Allow the meatballs to simmer gently in sauce rather than boiling to maintain their shape and texture.
• Toast Your Rolls – Lightly toasting the rolls adds crunch and prevents them from becoming soggy when filled with sauce.
• Experiment with Cheese – Try different types of cheese like provolone or gouda for added flavor variations.
• Add Veggies – Incorporate sautéed bell peppers or onions inside the sub for extra flavor and nutrition.

Best Side Dishes for Meatball Sub Recipe

When serving up delicious meatball subs, pairing them with complementary side dishes can elevate your meal. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Bread – Warm, buttery garlic bread serves as an excellent starter or side that complements the marinara sauce beautifully.
2. Coleslaw – This crunchy side offers a creamy texture that balances the savory flavors of the meatball sub.
3. Potato Wedges – Chunky potato wedges seasoned with herbs make for a hearty side that pairs well with any sandwich.
4. Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal roasted vegetables add color and nutrients while providing a light contrast to the rich sandwich.
5. Baked Zucchini Fries – These healthier fries add a fun twist while maintaining that satisfying crunch without excess calories.
6. Pickles – Tangy pickles bring brightness to each bite, cutting through the richness of melted cheese and meatballs.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making a meatball sub can seem simple, but there are common pitfalls that can affect the taste and texture of your dish.

• Skipping the seasoning: Not adding enough spices can result in bland meatballs. Be generous with herbs like oregano and basil for a flavorful boost.
• Overcooking the meatballs: Cooking them too long can dry them out. Aim for a nice golden brown on the outside but ensure they’re juicy inside.
• Choosing the wrong bread: Using the wrong type of roll can lead to a soggy or overly hard sandwich. Opt for fresh sub rolls to hold up against the sauce and cheese.
• Not broiling long enough: Failing to broil until the cheese is bubbly results in a less appealing visual and taste. Keep an eye on them; it should only take a few minutes.
• Ignoring garnishes: Skipping out on Parmesan or fresh herbs might make your sub look less appetizing. A simple sprinkle can elevate both flavor and presentation.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Separate meatballs from rolls if possible to maintain texture.

Freezing Meatball Sub Recipe

• Freeze individual meatballs in a single layer before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
• Wrap sub rolls tightly in foil or plastic wrap before freezing.

Reheating Meatball Sub Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and reheat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently to avoid sogginess.
• Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water, covering until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best meat for a Meatball Sub Recipe?

Ground beef is commonly used, but you can mix it with pork or turkey for different flavors.

Can I make this Meatball Sub Recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the meatballs and sauce in advance, then assemble and bake just before serving.

How do I customize my Meatball Sub Recipe?

You can add extra ingredients like sautéed peppers or onions, or use different cheeses based on your preference.

What goes well with Meatball Subs?

Pair your subs with salads, chips, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

How long does it take to make this Meatball Sub Recipe?

The total time is approximately 35 minutes, including preparation and cooking.

Final Thoughts

This easy Meatball Sub Recipe is perfect for family dinners or parties. Its versatility allows customization with different meats, sauces, and toppings. Try making it your own today!