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Meatball Parm Sub

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The Meatball Parm Sub is a classic comfort food featuring juicy meatballs, gooey melted cheese, and savory marinara sauce, all nestled in a soft, toasted sub roll. Perfect for a quick dinner or hearty lunch.

Ingredients

  1. 1 tablespoon olive oil
    1 small onion, chopped
    3 garlic cloves, minced
    1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
    1 teaspoon dried oregano
    1 teaspoon dried basil
    1/2 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
    Salt and pepper to taste
    1215 meatballs (homemade or store-bought)
    4 sub rolls or hoagie buns
    2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
    1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
    Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)
    For the Meatballs:
    1 lb ground beef (or a mix of ground beef and pork)
    1/4 cup breadcrumbs
    1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
    1 egg
    2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
    2 cloves garlic, minced
    1 teaspoon dried oregano
    1/2 teaspoon salt
    1/4 teaspoon pepper
    1/4 cup milk (optional, for moisture)

Instructions

For the Meatballs:

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) for baking the meatballs.
  2. Make the Meatball Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, parsley, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Add the milk if you want a softer meatball. Mix gently until everything is well combined (don’t overmix).
  3. Shape the Meatballs: Roll the mixture into meatballs, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter, and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
  4. Bake the Meatballs: Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through. Once done, remove from the oven and set aside.
  5. For the Sauce:
  6. Make the Marinara Sauce: While the meatballs are baking, heat olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
  7. Simmer the Sauce: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, oregano, basil, sugar (if using), salt, and pepper. Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes to let the flavors meld together.
  8. Add the Meatballs to the Sauce: Once the sauce is ready, add the baked meatballs to the saucepan. Stir to coat the meatballs in the sauce and let them simmer for another 5-10 minutes.
  9. For the Sub:
  10. Prepare the Sub Rolls: While the meatballs are simmering, split the sub rolls and place them on a baking sheet. Lightly toast them in the oven for 5 minutes for a crispy texture if desired.
  11. Assemble the Meatball Parm Subs: Spoon a few meatballs and plenty of marinara sauce into each sub roll. Top with shredded mozzarella cheese and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan.
  12. Melt the Cheese: Place the assembled subs under the broiler for 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden.
  13. Serve: Remove the subs from the oven, garnish with fresh basil or parsley (if desired), and serve immediately with a side of chips or a salad.

Notes

  • For a spicier version, add crushed red pepper flakes to the marinara sauce or top with sliced jalapeños.
  • To make it vegan, use plant-based meatballs and dairy-free cheese.
  • Toast the bread lightly to prevent it from getting soggy when adding the sauce and meatballs.
  • Leftover meatballs and sauce can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Nutrition