Meatball Subs

Why This Recipe Works

The BEST Meatball Subs are an absolute game-changer. This recipe combines classic flavors with a home-cooked touch, making every bite a savory delight. Using a mix of ground beef and pork gives the meatballs a juicy texture, while the cheese adds that gooey, melty goodness we all crave. The homemade marinara sauce, whether prepared from scratch or from a jar, helps in bringing everything together beautifully. Each component is designed to complement the others, resulting in a sandwich you won’t forget anytime soon.

Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!

Why You’ll Love This The BEST Meatball Subs

There’s something special about sinking your teeth into a hearty meatball sub. The combination of tender meatballs, rich marinara, and gooey cheese makes it a quintessential comfort food. Plus, these subs are not only delicious but also easy to make at home. You can prepare them for a cozy dinner or a fun game day party. Flexible and customizable, this recipe accommodates different preferences, whether you prefer extra cheese or a spicy kick. The BEST Meatball Subs are sure to become a favorite in your household.

Ingredients

• 3 deli hoagie rolls
• 12 Italian meatballs (12-15 meatballs)
• 1/2 cup marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
• 1/2 cup fresh grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 1/2 cups thick shredded mozzarella cheese
• 2 tsp dried oregano
• 1/2 lb ground beef (85%/15% preferred)
• 1/2 lb ground pork
• 1 egg
• 1 slice whole wheat bread (soaked in milk and squeezed)
• 1/4 cup minced yellow onion
• 1/4 cup fresh grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 garlic cloves (pressed)
• 1 tbsp fresh minced basil
• 1/2 tbsp fresh minced parsley
• 1/2-1 tsp kosher salt (to taste)
• 1/8-1/4 tsp black pepper (to taste)
• 1 1/2 cups marinara sauce (to cook meatballs, homemade or store-bought)

Homemade Meatballs Preparation

Combine Meatball Ingredients

Start by grabbing a large mixing bowl. Combine ground beef, ground pork, the egg, minced onion, Parmesan cheese, pressed garlic, herbs, salt, and pepper. Now, take that milk-soaked bread, squeeze out the excess milk, break it into pieces, and toss it into the bowl. Mix everything together thoroughly until you have a well-combined mixture. It should be moist yet hold its shape well; this is key for achieving the perfect meatball texture.

Shape and Bake Meatballs

Next, grease your hands with a bit of cooking spray. Grab a small amount of the meat mixture and roll it into 1-inch meatballs. Arrange them on parchment paper for easy transfer. Preheat your oven to 350°F. While it warms up, heat a large, oven-safe pan over medium-high heat. Add a bit of olive or avocado oil and sear the meatballs for a few minutes, flipping them halfway through until they’ve got a nice brown crust. After that, pour in marinara sauce over the meatballs. Transfer the pan to the oven and bake for 18-20 minutes to ensure they’re cooked through and flavorful.

Assembling the Meatball Subs

Prepare the Hoagie Rolls

While the meatballs are baking, slice your hoagie rolls down the middle, making sure not to slice all the way through. Place them neatly in a greased baking dish or onto a rimmed baking sheet. Spread a bit of marinara sauce at the bottom of each roll. Then, sprinkle fresh grated Parmesan cheese generously over the sauce for that extra cheesy flavor.

Fill and Top

Now comes the fun part! Start filling each hoagie with about 4-5 seared meatballs. Once those meatballs are snugly in place, cover them generously with shredded mozzarella cheese. Finally, sprinkle dried oregano on top for added flavor.

Bake the Subs

Place your assembled meatball subs in the oven and bake for about 15 minutes. If you’ve used cold meatballs or sauce, don’t forget to add an additional 5 minutes to your baking time. By now, your kitchen should be filled with mouthwatering aromas!

Serving Suggestions

Your meatball subs are now ready to enjoy! Serve them with a side of crispy fries, a fresh green salad, or classic potato chips. Each option offers a comforting balance to the rich, cheesy meatball goodness.

Tips for Success

• Use a cookie scoop to create uniform meatballs for even cooking.
• Make sure the meatballs are well-seared, as this enhances the flavor greatly.
• Don’t hesitate to experiment with different types of cheese for added zest!

Variations

If you want to switch things up, consider substituting ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. Adding sautéed bell peppers can boost the veggie content and provide a nice crunch. Also, don’t shy away from playing with herbs or spices to customize the flavors to your liking.

Pairing Ideas

To balance the richness of the meatball subs, consider pairing them with a chilled glass of iced tea, a light-bodied red wine, or a refreshing salad. These drinks and sides will complement your delicious creation beautifully.

FAQs

Can I make meatballs ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the meatballs and refrigerate or even freeze them until you’re ready to bake.

What can I substitute for Parmesan cheese?
Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast are both good alternatives if you need a change.

How do I make gluten-free meatballs?
Simply swap out the regular bread for gluten-free bread and check that all other ingredients are gluten-free.

Can I use jarred marinara sauce?
Yes! Using store-bought marinara can simplify the process without compromising flavor.

What toppings can I add to my meatball subs?
Try adding sliced jalapeños, fresh basil, or a drizzle of balsamic glaze for an exciting twist.

These scrumptious meatball subs are perfect for family dinners or game day gatherings. With each bite, you’ll savor juicy meatballs layered under gooey cheese and vibrant sauce. They promise to please everyone at the table. Feel free to customize with your favorite toppings or sides, and most importantly, enjoy making and sharing these comforting sandwiches with those you love!

Print