There is nothing quite like sinking your teeth into a warm, cheesy, flavorful sub packed with juicy meatballs and rich marinara: this is exactly what makes the Best Meatball Sub Recipe a true crowd-pleaser. Combining tender homemade meatballs infused with Italian herbs and spices, topped with melty mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, and nestled inside a toasted sub roll, this sandwich delivers comfort and excitement in every bite. Whether you are making this for a casual dinner or feeding a group of hungry friends, this recipe promises a delicious experience that keeps everyone coming back for more.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of the Best Meatball Sub Recipe lies in its simple yet essential ingredients, each one playing an important role in bringing the dish to life. From the perfectly seasoned ground beef meatballs to the tangy marinara sauce and baked cheese, every component works together to create a symphony of flavors and textures.
- 1 lb ground beef: The hearty base of our meatballs, providing richness and substance.
- 1/2 cup Italian bread crumbs: Adds structure and moisture retention to keep meatballs tender.
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese (plus more for topping): Delivers a nutty, savory note that deepens flavor complexity.
- 1 egg: Acts as a binder holding all the meatball ingredients together perfectly.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Classic Italian herb that brings warmth and earthiness.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil: Adds a subtle sweet herbaceous layer.
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder: Boosts the umami and adds aromatic depth.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Gives a punch of garlicky goodness that melds everything harmoniously.
- 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt: Enhances all flavors, balancing the savory components.
- 1/4 teaspoon fresh ground black pepper: Adds a touch of mild heat and complexity.
- 2 cups marinara or pasta sauce: The luscious tomato base that simmers with the meatballs to bring tender juiciness.
- 4 sub rolls: Soft yet sturdy to hold all that tasty filling without falling apart.
- 1.5 cups finely shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully over meatballs for that gooey, indulgent finish.
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh Italian parsley or fresh basil (optional, for garnish): Adds a pop of freshness and vibrant color to the finished subs.
How to Make Best Meatball Sub Recipe
Step 1: Mix and Shape Meatballs
Start by combining ground beef, Italian bread crumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, dried oregano, dried basil, onion powder, garlic powder, kosher salt, and black pepper in a large bowl. Use your hands or a spoon to mix gently until everything is just combined; overmixing can make meatballs dense, so be careful. Then roll the mixture into uniform 1-inch meatballs to ensure even cooking and that perfect bite-sized portion for your subs.
Step 2: Brown Meatballs
Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the meatballs in a single layer without overcrowding. Brown them evenly on all sides, turning occasionally to build a beautiful crust that contributes rich flavor and a lovely texture contrast. Once browned, drain excess grease to keep things from getting greasy in the next step.
Step 3: Simmer in Marinara
Pour your marinara or pasta sauce right into the skillet with the browned meatballs. Stir gently so the sauce coats the meatballs but they don’t break apart. Lower the heat to medium-low, cover loosely, and let them simmer for about 15 minutes. This step allows the meatballs to cook through perfectly while absorbing the tangy, herb-infused sauce, making every bite bursting with flavor.
Step 4: Prepare and Toast Rolls
While the meatballs are simmering, split your sub rolls and if you like, spread a little butter inside for extra richness. Place them under the broiler for a few minutes until the cut sides turn golden and crisp. This toasting adds a delightful crunch that holds up against the moist meatballs and sauce.
Step 5: Assemble Subs
Start by sprinkling half of the shredded mozzarella cheese onto the bottom halves of the toasted rolls. Then carefully arrange about five hot meatballs in each sub, spooning a bit of extra sauce on top for saucy goodness. Finish by topping with the remaining mozzarella. This layering ensures plenty of cheesy melt and that signature sticky, savory pull when you bite into the sandwich.
Step 6: Broil and Serve
Place your assembled sandwiches back under the broiler just until the cheese melts and forms a bubbly, slightly browned topping. Remove from the oven and add a sprinkle of Parmesan and freshly chopped herbs like parsley or basil for brightness and an extra layer of aroma. Serve immediately and watch these subs disappear in no time.
How to Serve Best Meatball Sub Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese and some chopped Italian parsley or basil not only adds color but a fresh herbal contrast to the hearty, cheesy subs. For some extra zing, a dash of crushed red pepper flakes can spice things up beautifully.
Side Dishes
Classic sides like crispy French fries or a tangy coleslaw complement this hearty sandwich well. For a lighter option, a crisp green salad with vinaigrette cuts through the richness and keeps the meal balanced and refreshing.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving mini meatball subs as finger foods for parties by using small slider rolls and cutting meatballs in half. Another fun idea is to turn leftovers into a meatball sub casserole—layer everything in a baking dish, top with cheese, and bake until bubbly for an easy family-style meal.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover meatballs and sauce stored separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and prevent the rolls from getting soggy.
Freezing
This dish freezes beautifully. Place cooled meatballs and sauce in a freezer-safe container, and freeze for up to 3 months. You can also freeze assembled subs before broiling, wrapped tightly in foil.
Reheating
Reheat meatballs and sauce gently on the stovetop or microwave until hot. If reheating assembled subs, bake in a preheated oven at 350°F until cheese is melted and sandwich is warmed through to preserve that toasty texture.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be swapped in for beef to make a lighter meatball sub. Just keep in mind these meats are leaner, so consider adding a little olive oil or a beaten egg to keep the texture moist.
Is it possible to make these meatballs gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute the Italian bread crumbs with gluten-free bread crumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers. The flavor and texture will still be deliciously satisfying.
What kind of marinara sauce works best?
A good-quality store-bought marinara or a simple homemade tomato sauce with garlic and herbs works perfectly. The key is a sauce that’s flavorful but not too watery to keep your subs from getting soggy.
Can I make the meatballs ahead of time?
Definitely. You can prepare and brown the meatballs a day ahead, then refrigerate them. When ready to serve, just simmer in sauce and proceed with assembling your subs.
How do I get the bread crispy without burning the cheese?
Toast the rolls first under the broiler until golden before assembling. After adding cheese and meatballs, broil just briefly at a lower rack position or for a very short time to melt cheese without overcooking the bread.
Final Thoughts
Making the Best Meatball Sub Recipe at home is such a rewarding experience—you get all the intense flavors, gooey cheese, and comforting textures that make this classic sandwich truly unforgettable. Whether for a cozy dinner or feeding a hungry group, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that feels like a warm hug on a plate. So don’t hesitate to try it out, share it with loved ones, and create delicious memories with every bite!
Print
Best Meatball Sub Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Sandwich
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
This Best Meatball Sub Recipe delivers juicy, flavorful meatballs simmered in rich marinara sauce, nestled in toasted sub rolls, and topped with melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. A classic and comforting sandwich perfect for a satisfying meal in just 35 minutes.
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
- 2 cups marinara or pasta sauce
Assembly
- 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 until just combined, then roll the mixture into 1-inch meatballs.
- Brown Meatballs: Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs and brown them on all sides, turning occasionally to get even color. Once browned, drain any excess grease.
- Simmer in Marinara: Pour the marinara or pasta sauce into the skillet with the browned meatballs. Stir gently, then lower the heat to medium-low and simmer for 15 minutes, allowing flavors to meld and meatballs to cook through.
- Prepare and Toast Rolls: While the meatballs are simmering, split the sub rolls and optionally butter them. Toast the rolls under the broiler until golden and crisp.
- Assemble Subs: Sprinkle half of the shredded mozzarella cheese onto the bottom half of each toasted roll. Arrange about 5 hot meatballs into each roll. Spoon extra sauce over the meatballs if desired, then top with the remaining mozzarella cheese.
- Broil and Serve: Place the assembled sandwiches under the broiler and heat just until the cheese is melted and lightly browned. Remove from the oven, sprinkle with additional Parmesan cheese and chopped herbs if desired, and serve promptly.
Notes
- Use fresh herbs for garnish to enhance flavor and presentation.
- To reduce fat, use lean ground beef or substitute with ground turkey or chicken.
- For added spice, mix red pepper flakes into the marinara sauce.
- To prevent meatballs from drying out, avoid overmixing the meat mixture.
- Broil the subs close to the cheese to ensure it melts evenly without burning.
