Meatball Marinara Subs

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe brings the classic Italian-American favorite right into your kitchen. It’s easy to prepare, satisfying, and endlessly customizable. You’ll love how the savory meatballs soak up the marinara sauce and how the melted cheese ties everything together. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or craving something indulgent, these subs never disappoint.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Ground beef or a mix of beef and pork
• Breadcrumbs
• Egg
• Grated Parmesan cheese
• Garlic, minced
• Fresh parsley, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Olive oil
• Marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
• Sub rolls or hoagie rolls
• Shredded mozzarella or provolone cheese
• Butter (for toasting rolls)

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine the ground meat, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan, garlic, parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined—don’t overwork the meat.
3. Roll the mixture into evenly sized meatballs, about 1 to 1½ inches in diameter.
4. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Brown the meatballs on all sides until golden.
5. Pour the marinara sauce into the skillet and bring to a gentle simmer. Cover and cook for 20–25 minutes, until the meatballs are fully cooked and tender.
6. Slice the sub rolls open and spread a thin layer of butter on each side. Toast them in the oven or on a skillet until golden and slightly crisp.
7. Spoon 3–4 meatballs with sauce into each roll.
8. Top with shredded mozzarella or provolone.
9. Place the assembled subs on a baking sheet and bake for 5–7 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
10. Serve warm with extra marinara sauce on the side.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 people.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes

Variations

• Spicy version: Add crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce or use spicy Italian sausage in the meat mixture.
• Cheese lovers: Mix shredded mozzarella directly into the meat mixture for an extra cheesy interior.
• Vegetarian option: Substitute with plant-based meatballs and vegetarian marinara sauce.
• Garlic bread subs: Brush the rolls with garlic butter before toasting for extra flavor.
• Mini sliders: Use small rolls to make bite-sized versions for parties or appetizers.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover meatballs and sauce separately from the rolls in airtight containers. Refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat the meatballs gently in a saucepan or microwave, adding a splash of water if needed. Toast the rolls just before assembling. The cooked meatballs can also be frozen (with sauce) for up to 2 months—simply thaw overnight and reheat before serving.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought meatballs?

Yes, store-bought meatballs work well if you’re short on time, but homemade ones taste fresher and more flavorful.

What’s the best cheese for these subs?

Mozzarella and provolone are classic choices, but you can also use Monterey Jack or Italian blend cheese.

Can I make the meatballs in advance?

Absolutely. You can cook the meatballs ahead and refrigerate them for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.

How do I keep the rolls from getting soggy?

Toast the rolls before assembling and avoid adding too much sauce to prevent sogginess.

Can I make these subs without baking them?

Yes, just assemble them and let the hot meatballs melt the cheese naturally, though baking enhances the texture.

What kind of sauce should I use?

A rich, thick marinara sauce with garlic and herbs works best to coat the meatballs evenly.

Can I use turkey or chicken instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey or chicken are leaner options that still taste delicious with the marinara sauce.

Are these subs freezer-friendly?

You can freeze the cooked meatballs and sauce, but it’s best to assemble the subs fresh.

Can I make them in a slow cooker?

Yes, brown the meatballs first, then simmer them in marinara sauce on low for 4–6 hours.

What side dishes go well with Meatball Marinara Subs?

Serve with fries, a side salad, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Conclusion

Meatball Marinara Subs are a classic comfort dish that’s always a hit. Juicy meatballs, flavorful sauce, and melted cheese all tucked into a toasted sub roll create a meal that’s satisfying and crowd-pleasing. Whether for a weeknight dinner or a casual get-together, these subs deliver big, bold flavors in every bite.

Meatball Marinara Subs

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Meatball Marinara Subs are hearty, cheesy sandwiches loaded with juicy homemade meatballs simmered in rich marinara sauce and served on toasted sub rolls with melted mozzarella or provolone. Perfect for family dinners, game days, or whenever you crave classic Italian-American comfort food.

• Author: Laura
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking and Stovetop
• Cuisine: Italian-American
• Diet: Halal

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef or a mix of beef and pork
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 large egg
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 3 cups marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
• 4 sub rolls or hoagie rolls
• 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella or provolone cheese
• 2 tbsp butter (for toasting rolls)

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground meat, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan, garlic, parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until combined.
3. Shape the mixture into 1–1½ inch meatballs.
4. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Brown the meatballs on all sides until golden.
5. Pour marinara sauce into the skillet with the meatballs and simmer gently for 20–25 minutes, covered, until fully cooked.
6. Slice sub rolls open and spread butter on each side. Toast in the oven or on a skillet until golden.
7. Spoon 3–4 meatballs with sauce into each toasted roll.
8. Top with shredded mozzarella or provolone cheese.
9. Place subs on a baking sheet and bake for 5–7 minutes, until cheese is melted and bubbly.
10. Serve warm with extra marinara sauce on the side.

Notes

• Use spicy Italian sausage for a bolder flavor.
• Toast rolls before filling to prevent sogginess.
• Freeze cooked meatballs and sauce for up to 2 months.
• Substitute beef with turkey or chicken for a leaner version.
• Brush rolls with garlic butter for a garlic bread twist.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 sub sandwich
• Calories: 640
• Sugar: 9g
• Sodium: 920mg
• Fat: 32g
• Saturated Fat: 12g
• Unsaturated Fat: 16g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 48g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 36g
• Cholesterol: 120mg