There’s something about a meatball sub that instantly takes me back to slow afternoons filled with laughter and the smell of simmering tomato sauce. Imagine biting into a toasted sub roll, warm and crisp, yielding to tender meatballs swimming in rich marinara, topped with gooey melted mozzarella. The aroma alone fills the kitchen, drawing everyone to the table. It’s that kind of meal that makes you pause, savor, and appreciate the simple comforts of home-cooked food.
One chilly afternoon, I remember pulling a pan of these meatballs from the oven. The sauce was bubbling gently, and the cheese was perfectly melted, stretching with every bite. The first taste was like a quiet celebration, the garlic and herbs mingling with the richness of the beef. The sub roll’s slight crunch added texture, making it more than just a sandwich—it was a moment of joy. No rush, no fuss, just pure, satisfying flavor that stayed with me long after.
- Hearty and filling, great for a satisfying lunch or casual dinner.
- Homemade meatballs simmered in a flavorful marinara sauce.
- Melty mozzarella cheese adds a creamy, irresistible finish.
- Toasted sub rolls provide the perfect balance of crunch and softness.
- Simple enough to make on a busy day but special enough to impress.
If you’re worried about making meatballs from scratch, don’t be. It’s a straightforward process that fills your kitchen with the most comforting aromas. Plus, leftovers keep well and can easily be reheated for another delicious meal. It’s a no-fuss way to bring a bit of warmth and tradition to your table.
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Classic Meatball Sub
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 4 sandwiches
Description
A hearty and delicious classic meatball sub sandwich featuring tender homemade meatballs simmered in marinara sauce, topped with melted mozzarella cheese, and served on a toasted sub roll.
Ingredients
1 pound ground beef
1/2 cup Italian seasoned breadcrumbs
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 large egg
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
2 cups marinara sauce
4 sub sandwich rolls
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a large bowl, combine ground beef, Italian seasoned breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, egg, minced garlic, chopped parsley, salt, and black pepper. Mix until just combined.
Shape the mixture into 16 meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter.
Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Add meatballs and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-6 minutes.
Pour marinara sauce over the meatballs in the skillet. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20 minutes, until meatballs are cooked through.
While the meatballs bake, slice the sub rolls lengthwise without cutting all the way through.
Remove the skillet from the oven. Using a slotted spoon, place 4 meatballs with sauce into each sub roll.
Top the meatballs with shredded mozzarella cheese.
Place the assembled sandwiches on a baking sheet and return to the oven for 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Remove from oven and serve immediately.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
FAQ
Can I make the meatballs ahead of time?
Absolutely. You can prepare the meatballs and sauce a day in advance and simply assemble and toast the subs when you’re ready to serve.
What bread works best for this sandwich?
A sturdy sub roll is ideal because it holds up well to the sauce and melted cheese without falling apart.
Can I use turkey or chicken instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey or chicken can be a lighter alternative, though the flavor will vary slightly.
How do I reheat leftovers without making the bread soggy?
Remove the meatballs from the sauce and gently reheat them separately. Toast the bread fresh before assembling the sandwich.
Ready to bring a little comfort to your lunch? This classic meatball sub is waiting to be made, shared, and enjoyed.