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Meatball Marinara Subs

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Meatball Marinara Subs are hearty, cheesy sandwiches filled with tender meatballs simmered in a rich tomato marinara sauce, then topped with melted mozzarella or provolone and served on toasted sub rolls. Perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings.

Ingredients

  • 1 lb ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 egg
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup onion, finely chopped
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

For the Marinara Sauce:

  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
  • 2 tbsp tomato paste
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • Salt to taste
  • 1/2 tsp sugar (optional)

For the Subs:

  • 4–6 sub rolls or hoagie buns
  • 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella or provolone cheese
  • Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. In a bowl, mix ground meat, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, egg, garlic, onion, parsley, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper until just combined.
  2. Roll into evenly sized meatballs.
  3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Brown meatballs on all sides, then remove and set aside.
  4. In the same skillet, sauté garlic until fragrant. Add crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, salt, and sugar if using. Stir well.
  5. Return meatballs to the sauce and simmer for 25–30 minutes until fully cooked and flavorful.
  6. Preheat broiler. Slice sub rolls and toast lightly if desired.
  7. Fill each roll with meatballs and spoon marinara sauce over top. Add cheese and broil for 2–3 minutes until melted and bubbly.
  8. Garnish with basil or parsley and serve hot.

Notes

  • Bake meatballs at 400°F for 20 minutes as an alternative to frying.
  • Use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
  • For extra flavor, brush rolls with garlic butter before toasting.
  • Make ahead: freeze meatballs and sauce for up to 2 months.
  • Use store-bought marinara for a time-saving shortcut.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://thefamilycooking.com/meatball-marinara-subs/