Name: Ultimate Meatball Sub Recipe: Irresistibly Cheesy & Easy!
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: ½ lb ground beef; ½ lb ground pork; ½ cup breadcrumbs; 1 egg; 2 cloves garlic, minced; ¼ cup onion, finely chopped; ¼ cup Parmesan cheese, grated; 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped; 1 tsp Italian seasoning; ½ tsp salt; ½ tsp black pepper; ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional); 1 ½ cups marinara sauce; 4 hoagie rolls; 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded; 1 cup provolone cheese, shredded; 2 tbsp olive oil; 2 tbsp butter, softened; ½ tsp garlic powder; Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

If you’re a fan of hearty, comforting, and cheesy sandwiches, this ultimate meatball sub recipe is just what you need. Packed with juicy, flavorful meatballs, smothered in a rich marinara sauce, and loaded with gooey melted cheese, this sub is a satisfying meal for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it up for a quick weeknight dinner, a game-day feast, or a cozy lunch, this easy-to-make recipe will become a favorite in your household. Plus, it’s completely customizable, so you can tweak it to fit your preferences perfectly!

Ingredients

Ground beef
Ground pork
Breadcrumbs
Egg
Garlic
Onion
Parmesan cheese
Fresh parsley
Italian seasoning
Salt
Black pepper
Red pepper flakes
Marinara sauce
Hoagie rolls
Mozzarella cheese
Provolone cheese
Olive oil
Butter
Garlic powder
Fresh basil (optional)

Directions

Prepare the Meatballs: In a large bowl, mix together ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, egg, minced garlic, finely chopped onion, Parmesan cheese, fresh parsley, Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Mix until just combined.
Form the Meatballs: Roll the mixture into evenly sized meatballs, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter.
Cook the Meatballs: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat with olive oil. Sear the meatballs on all sides until browned. Then, pour in marinara sauce, lower the heat, and let them simmer for 15-20 minutes until fully cooked.
Prepare the Hoagie Rolls: Preheat the oven to 375°F. Slice the hoagie rolls open but not all the way through. Spread softened butter mixed with garlic powder on the inside and toast in the oven for about 5 minutes until slightly crispy.
Assemble the Subs: Spoon the meatballs and marinara sauce into the toasted rolls. Top with a generous amount of shredded mozzarella and provolone cheese.
Melt the Cheese: Place the assembled subs on a baking sheet and bake for 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and sprinkle with fresh basil if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Variations

Turkey or Chicken Meatballs: Swap out the beef and pork for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner alternative.
Spicy Kick: Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the meatball mixture for extra heat.
Low-Carb Option: Serve the meatballs over zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash instead of using hoagie rolls.
Different Cheeses: Try using cheddar, gouda, or even blue cheese for a unique twist on the classic.
Gluten-Free Version: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and hoagie rolls to accommodate dietary restrictions.

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4 subs

Storage/Reheating

Refrigeration: Store leftover meatballs and sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Keep the bread separate to avoid sogginess.
Freezing: Freeze cooked meatballs and sauce in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: Warm the meatballs and sauce in a saucepan over low heat or in the microwave until heated through. Toast fresh bread, assemble the subs, and bake for a few minutes to melt the cheese.

FAQs

How do I keep the meatballs from falling apart?

Using a proper binder like eggs and breadcrumbs helps hold the meatballs together. Avoid over-mixing, as this can make them too dense and more prone to crumbling.

Can I use store-bought meatballs?

Absolutely! If you’re short on time, pre-cooked frozen or deli meatballs can be a great substitute.

What’s the best bread for meatball subs?

Hoagie rolls, sub rolls, or any sturdy bread that can hold up to the sauce and meatballs without becoming soggy.

Can I make the meatballs ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare and cook the meatballs in advance, then store them in the fridge or freezer until ready to use.

How can I make the subs extra crispy?

Brushing the hoagie rolls with garlic butter and toasting them before assembling adds extra crunch and flavor.

What type of cheese melts best for this recipe?

Mozzarella and provolone are excellent choices as they melt well and complement the flavors of the meatballs and marinara.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes! Use plant-based meat substitutes or make lentil or mushroom-based meatballs.

How do I prevent soggy bread?

Toasting the bread before adding the meatballs and sauce creates a barrier that helps prevent sogginess.

What sides go well with meatball subs?

Classic sides include fries, coleslaw, garlic bread, or a simple green salad.

Can I use a slow cooker for the meatballs?

Yes! Brown the meatballs first, then add them to a slow cooker with marinara sauce and cook on low for 4-6 hours.

Conclusion

This ultimate meatball sub recipe is the perfect combination of rich, meaty flavors, melty cheese, and crispy, garlicky bread. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to make and packed with customizable options to suit any preference. Whether you’re making it for a family meal or a game-day treat, this recipe will have everyone coming back for more. Try it today and enjoy the ultimate cheesy, saucy, and delicious meatball sub experience!

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