Meatball Sub Bubble Up

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe takes everything you love about a meatball sub and transforms it into a bubbly, golden casserole that’s easy to scoop and serve. There’s no need to toast hoagie rolls or layer sandwiches—just toss everything in a dish and bake. It’s great for feeding a crowd, comes together quickly with store-bought ingredients, and is endlessly customizable. Plus, kids and adults alike can’t get enough of that gooey cheese and saucy meatball combo.

Ingredients

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

• Refrigerated biscuit dough (such as buttermilk or Southern-style biscuits)
• Frozen or pre-cooked meatballs (beef, turkey, or plant-based)
• Marinara sauce
• Shredded mozzarella cheese
• Grated Parmesan cheese
• Italian seasoning
• Garlic powder
• Fresh parsley or basil (for garnish, optional)

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Cut the biscuit dough into quarters and spread evenly in the bottom of the dish.
3. In a large bowl, mix the marinara sauce with Italian seasoning and garlic powder.
4. Toss the cooked or thawed meatballs in the sauce until fully coated.
5. Layer the sauced meatballs evenly over the biscuit pieces.
6. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese generously over the top.
7. Finish with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.
8. Bake uncovered for 30–35 minutes, or until the biscuits are puffed and golden and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
9. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil if desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 6 to 8 people.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes

Variations

• Spicy: Add crushed red pepper flakes or use spicy meatballs for extra heat.
• Cheese blend: Mix in provolone, ricotta, or cheddar for a twist.
• Vegetarian: Use plant-based meatballs and ensure the biscuits are vegetarian-friendly.
• Garlic bread flavor: Brush biscuit pieces with garlic butter before layering.
• Extra saucy: Add an extra half cup of marinara if you like it extra moist.
• Mini version: Bake in a muffin tin for individual servings—great for parties.

Storage/Reheating

Allow the casserole to cool before storing.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Reheat individual portions in the microwave for 1–2 minutes or warm in a 350°F oven for 10–15 minutes.
To freeze, wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake until heated through.

FAQs

Do I need to cook the meatballs before baking?

If using frozen meatballs, thaw them first or use fully cooked ones. Raw meatballs are not recommended unless cooked before adding.

Can I use homemade meatballs?

Yes, homemade meatballs work great—just make sure they’re fully cooked before adding to the casserole.

Will the biscuits cook all the way through?

Yes, if cut into quarters and spread evenly, the biscuits will puff up and bake through. Avoid overcrowding the pan.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, assemble it a few hours ahead, cover, and refrigerate. Bake just before serving.

What kind of biscuit dough should I use?

Refrigerated buttermilk or Southern-style biscuits work best. Avoid flaky or layered doughs as they can separate oddly during baking.

Can I add vegetables?

Yes, sautéed bell peppers, onions, or mushrooms can be layered in for extra flavor and nutrition.

What sauce is best?

Use your favorite marinara or pasta sauce. Chunky or smooth varieties both work well.

How do I know when it’s done?

The biscuits should be golden and puffed, and the cheese melted and bubbly. A toothpick inserted in a biscuit should come out clean.

Can I use crescent roll dough instead?

Yes, crescent roll dough can be substituted, though the texture will be softer than biscuits.

What sides go well with this?

A simple green salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables pair nicely with this hearty dish.

Conclusion

Meatball Sub Bubble Up is a fun, comforting casserole that turns a beloved sandwich into an easy and irresistible meal. With its cheesy, saucy layers and golden biscuit base, it’s a guaranteed hit for busy weeknights, game day spreads, or casual family dinners. Customize it to your liking, enjoy the leftovers, and watch it disappear fast.

Meatball Sub Bubble Up

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Meatball Sub Bubble Up is a fun and easy casserole that combines the flavors of a classic meatball sub with fluffy biscuit dough, marinara sauce, and gooey cheese. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or feeding a crowd with minimal effort.

• Author: Laura
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 6 to 8 servings
• Category: Main Dish
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Halal

Ingredients

• 1 can (16 oz) refrigerated biscuit dough (buttermilk or Southern-style)
• 1 lb frozen or pre-cooked meatballs, thawed
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• Fresh parsley or basil for garnish (optional)

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Cut biscuit dough into quarters and spread evenly across the bottom of the dish.
3. In a large bowl, mix marinara sauce with Italian seasoning and garlic powder.
4. Add thawed meatballs to the sauce and toss until coated.
5. Distribute the sauced meatballs evenly over the biscuit pieces.
6. Sprinkle mozzarella cheese over the top, followed by Parmesan cheese.
7. Bake uncovered for 30–35 minutes, or until the biscuits are puffed and golden and the cheese is bubbly.
8. Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving.
9. Garnish with chopped parsley or basil if desired.

Notes

• Use fully cooked meatballs to ensure even baking.
• Cut biscuit dough into small, even pieces for best results.
• For extra crispiness, broil the top for 2–3 minutes at the end.
• Add sautéed vegetables like bell peppers or onions for extra flavor.
• Use plant-based meatballs and suitable biscuits for a vegetarian version.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1.5 cups
• Calories: 520
• Sugar: 7g
• Sodium: 940mg
• Fat: 28g
• Saturated Fat: 12g
• Unsaturated Fat: 13g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 26g
• Cholesterol: 70mg