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Easy Meatball Subs with Marinara – Perfect for Dinner

Delicious Homemade Meatball Subs – A Classic Comfort Food

⚖️
Difficulty
Easy

⏲️
Prep Time
15 mins

🕒
Cook Time
30 mins

⏱️
Total Time
45 mins

🍽
Servings
4

Meatball subs are the ultimate combination of tender, juicy meatballs smothered in a rich marinara sauce, nestled inside a toasted sub roll, and topped with melted cheese. Whether you’re craving a quick lunch or an easy weeknight dinner, this hearty sandwich always delivers comfort food satisfaction. The homemade meatballs are seasoned to perfection and paired with a flavorful tomato sauce for a meal that feels indulgent yet easy to prepare.

This meatball sub recipe provides the perfect balance of flavors and textures—crispy toasted rolls, succulent meatballs, tangy marinara, and gooey melted mozzarella. It’s a family favorite that brings everyone to the table with excitement. Plus, with a few pro tips, you can customize this recipe to suit different dietary preferences and taste profiles!

Quick Recipe Highlights

  • Flavor Profile: Savory, slightly sweet, and tangy with a blend of rich Italian herbs.
  • Texture: A crisp, toasted roll filled with soft, juicy meatballs and creamy melted cheese.
  • Aroma: Warm, garlicky, and herbaceous with an irresistible cheesy top.
  • Visual Appeal: Golden-brown bread, vibrant red marinara, and creamy melted mozzarella.
  • Skill Level Needed: Easy—great for beginners and experienced cooks alike.
  • Special Equipment: A baking sheet, skillet, mixing bowl, and oven for toasting.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This meatball sub recipe delivers an unbeatable combination of bold flavors and hearty satisfaction. Each bite offers layers of taste, from the well-seasoned meatballs to the slightly tangy marinara sauce and melted mozzarella. The contrast between the crunchy toasted bread and the soft, juicy meatballs ensures every mouthful is delightful.

Convenience is another major plus—you can prepare the meatballs ahead of time or even make a double batch to freeze for later. That way, whenever a craving hits, you have everything ready to assemble a perfect sandwich in minutes.

This recipe is also customizable. Whether you prefer beef, pork, turkey, or even plant-based meatballs, you can easily swap ingredients while maintaining the delicious taste. It’s perfect for families since kids and adults alike love indulging in a hearty, cheesy sandwich.

Beyond taste, this dish provides a good balance of protein, carbs, and fats, making it a filling meal option. Using whole wheat or gluten-free bread can also make it a bit more nutritious while keeping it just as satisfying.

These meatball subs are also fantastic for entertaining. Serve them as sliders for a game night or backyard barbecue, and watch them disappear! Their impressive presentation and indulgent taste make them an easy win for social gatherings.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Overworking the Meat: Mix the ingredients gently to avoid tough meatballs.
  • Skipping the Binding Agent: Make sure to include breadcrumbs and eggs for structure.
  • Using Too Much Sauce: While marinara is essential, too much will make the sandwich soggy.
  • Skipping the Toasting Step: Toasting the subs prevents them from falling apart.
  • Not Cooking Meatballs Evenly: Make sure they are the same size to ensure uniform cooking.

The Recipe

Homemade Meatball Subs

Serves: 4

Prep Time: 15 mins

Cook Time: 30 mins

Total Time: 45 mins

Kitchen Equipment Needed

  • Mixing bowl
  • Skillet
  • Baking sheet
  • Oven

Ingredients

  • 1 lb ground beef
  • ½ cup breadcrumbs
  • ¼ cup grated parmesan
  • 1 egg
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • 1 tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
  • 4 sub rolls
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella
  • 1 tbsp olive oil

Directions

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, parmesan, egg, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Mix gently.
  3. Form the mixture into small meatballs.
  4. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Brown meatballs on all sides.
  5. Pour marinara sauce over the meatballs and simmer for 10 minutes.
  6. Slice the sub rolls and lightly toast them in the oven for 5 minutes.
  7. Fill each sub with meatballs and sauce, then top with mozzarella cheese.
  8. Place subs on a baking sheet and bake for 10 minutes or until cheese is melted.
  9. Serve warm and enjoy!

Recipe Notes

  • Use turkey or plant-based meat for a healthier alternative.
  • Add red pepper flakes for extra spice.
  • Store leftover meatballs in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for later use.

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