Description
This Ultimate Beefy Meatball Sub Delight features juicy homemade beef meatballs simmered in rich marinara sauce, topped with melted mozzarella cheese and served in soft sub rolls. Perfectly balanced with savory herbs and a touch of Parmesan, this classic American-Italian sandwich is a comforting meal for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
Meatballs
- 1½ pounds ground beef (80–85% lean)
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Sauce and Assembly
- 2 cups marinara or pasta sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 4–6 sub rolls or hoagie buns
- 1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ¼ cup fresh basil or parsley (optional for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Meatball Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, egg, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Mix gently until just combined to avoid tough meatballs. Roll the mixture into 1½-inch diameter meatballs for even cooking.
- Brown the Meatballs: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs and brown them on all sides, which should take about 5–7 minutes. This step locks in flavor and gives the meatballs a nice crust.
- Simmer in Sauce: Pour the marinara sauce over the browned meatballs. Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let the meatballs simmer for 15–20 minutes until they are thoroughly cooked through and tender.
- Preheat the Oven: While the meatballs finish cooking, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the subs.
- Assemble the Subs: Slice each sub roll lengthwise without cutting completely through, creating a hinge. Place rolls on a baking sheet. Fill each roll with 3 to 4 meatballs and spoon some marinara sauce over them. Generously sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese on top.
- Bake the Subs: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 8–10 minutes, or until the mozzarella has melted and is bubbly and slightly golden.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from oven and garnish with chopped fresh basil or parsley if desired. Serve the meatball subs hot for a delicious, hearty meal.
Notes
- For extra flavor, toast the sub rolls with garlic butter before assembling the sandwiches.
- Enhance the subs by adding sautéed onions and peppers or a drizzle of spicy mayo for a flavor twist.
- Use fresh herbs like basil or parsley as garnish to add freshness and color.
- Make sure not to overmix the meatball mixture to keep meatballs tender.
