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
Scale
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.
