If you’ve ever craved a sandwich that perfectly wraps comfort, flavor, and a little bit of indulgence in one, you’re in for a treat with this Meatball Sub Sandwiches Recipe. Picture juicy, tender meatballs swimming in rich marinara sauce, nestled inside warm, garlicky hoagie rolls and topped with ooey-gooey melted mozzarella cheese. It’s the kind of dish that feels like a cozy hug from the inside out, bringing both nostalgia and excitement to your taste buds with every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Meatball Sub Sandwiches Recipe is in its simplicity, where every ingredient plays an essential role. From the savory, juicy meatballs to the crisp, buttery rolls, each component works together to create a sandwich that’s bursting with texture and flavor.
- 16 meatballs (homemade or frozen): The hearty star of the sandwich providing rich, meaty satisfaction.
- 2 cups marinara sauce: Adds a vibrant, tangy tomato punch that keeps everything moist and flavorful.
- 4 hoagie rolls: Soft on the inside with a slightly crusty exterior to cradle the fillings perfectly.
- 4 tablespoons garlic butter: Brushed inside the rolls for a fragrant, savory kick that elevates every bite.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully over the meatballs, adding creamy, cheesy goodness.
How to Make Meatball Sub Sandwiches Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Meatballs
Whether you’re using store-bought or homemade, cook your meatballs as directed. If you’re making them from scratch, opt for a blend of beef and pork seasoned with herbs for that classic Italian flavor. The juicy meatballs are the foundation of this recipe, so don’t rush this step!
Step 2: Simmer in Marinara Sauce
Once cooked, nestle the meatballs into a saucepan with the marinara sauce and let them simmer covered for 10 minutes. This step lets the meatballs soak in the sauce’s flavorful goodness and ensures every bite is moist and rich.
Step 3: Toast the Rolls with Garlic Butter
Spread garlic butter inside your hoagie rolls for that irresistible aroma and mouthwatering depth. Place them on a baking pan and broil in the oven for about 3-4 minutes until golden. Keep a close eye so they get perfectly toasted without burning.
Step 4: Assemble the Subs
Arrange the toasted rolls in a baking dish. Add four meatballs to each roll, spoon extra marinara sauce on top, then sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese generously over everything, along with a sprinkle of parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
Step 5: Melt the Cheese
Place the dish under the broiler once more for 2-3 minutes until the cheese bubbles and melts into a deliciously gooey topping, bringing the whole sandwich together.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Serve your Meatball Sub Sandwiches Recipe hot, with extra marinara sauce on the side if you love a little extra dip. This meal is satisfying on its own or paired with some crunchy fries or a crisp salad.
How to Serve Meatball Sub Sandwiches Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil instantly brightens the dish. Add red pepper flakes if you enjoy a hint of heat, or a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil to enhance richness. These small touches bring your Meatball Sub Sandwiches Recipe to the next level.
Side Dishes
Classic sides like crispy French fries, a fresh Caesar salad, or even a tangy coleslaw complement the hearty subs wonderfully. For a lighter meal, roasted veggies or a simple green salad balance the richness nicely.
Creative Ways to Present
Try cutting the subs into smaller sliders for a party platter or serve open-faced on a wooden board with dipping bowls of marinara and grated Parmesan. Serving alongside pickles or pepperoncini adds a fun contrast to the flavors.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap leftover Meatball Sub Sandwiches Recipe tightly in foil or plastic wrap and refrigerate. Consume within 2-3 days to keep flavors fresh and the bread from getting soggy.
Freezing
If you want to freeze leftovers, remove any cheese topping first and store meatballs with sauce separately in airtight containers or freezer bags. Freeze the rolls separately to maintain texture. This method prevents sogginess and keeps everything tasting fresh.
Reheating
Reheat meatballs and sauce gently in a saucepan over low heat. Toast or warm the rolls in the oven, then assemble and melt cheese under a broiler or in a toaster oven when ready to eat. This keeps your Meatball Sub Sandwiches Recipe tasting as delicious as the first time.
FAQs
Can I use frozen meatballs for this recipe?
Absolutely! Frozen meatballs work great and can save you time. Just make sure to cook them through and simmer in the marinara sauce to infuse extra flavor.
What type of cheese works best in Meatball Sub Sandwiches Recipe?
Mozzarella is the classic choice for its meltability and mild flavor, but provolone or a blend with Parmesan also makes for delightful variations.
How can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Swap meatballs for plant-based meatballs or hearty roasted vegetables like mushrooms or eggplant balls. The marinara and garlic butter bring loads of flavor to keep it satisfying.
Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! You can make the meatballs and sauce in advance, then quickly assemble and broil the sandwiches when ready to serve for maximum freshness.
What bread works best for Meatball Sub Sandwiches Recipe?
Hoagie rolls are ideal for holding all the juicy goodness without falling apart, but sturdy baguettes or sub rolls can also be great alternatives.
Final Thoughts
There’s something incredibly comforting about a well-made Meatball Sub Sandwiches Recipe that just makes your day better. Whether it’s a quick weeknight dinner or a casual gathering, this recipe brings warmth, flavor, and a little nostalgia to the table. Give it a try, and it might just become your new favorite go-to meal!
Print
Meatball Sub Sandwiches Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 sandwiches
- Category: Sandwich
- Method: Broiling
- Cuisine: American
Description
A hearty and delicious Meatball Sub sandwich featuring tender meatballs simmered in marinara sauce, served on toasted hoagie rolls spread with garlic butter, and topped with melted mozzarella cheese for the perfect comforting meal.
Ingredients
Meatballs
- 16 meatballs (homemade or frozen)
- 2 cups marinara sauce
Bread and Toppings
- 4 hoagie rolls
- 4 tablespoons garlic butter
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 tablespoon chopped parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Meatballs: Prepare meatballs according to package instructions if using frozen, or follow your homemade meatball recipe. Ensure they are fully cooked before proceeding.
- Simmer in Marinara: Place the cooked meatballs in a medium saucepan with 2 cups of marinara sauce. Cover and simmer on low heat for 10 minutes to infuse the flavors and heat through.
- Toast the Rolls: While the meatballs simmer, spread garlic butter evenly on the insides of each hoagie roll. Preheat your oven’s broiler and place the rolls on a baking pan, cut side up. Broil for about 3-4 minutes until golden and toasted, watching closely to prevent burning.
- Assemble the Subs: Place the toasted rolls in a 9×13-inch baking dish. Evenly distribute 4 meatballs into each hoagie roll. Spoon some marinara sauce over the meatballs, then sprinkle each with shredded mozzarella cheese and a pinch of chopped parsley if desired.
- Broil to Melt Cheese: Return the assembled subs to the oven under the broiler for 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and melted.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and serve immediately with extra marinara sauce on the side for dipping, adding an extra layer of flavor and moisture.
Notes
- If using frozen meatballs, thaw them before simmering to ensure even cooking.
- You can substitute hoagie rolls with Italian or sub rolls if preferred.
- Garlic butter can be made by mixing softened butter with minced garlic and a pinch of salt.
- Keep an eye on the broiler to prevent the rolls and cheese from burning.
- For an added twist, sprinkle some red pepper flakes or grated Parmesan cheese on top before broiling.
