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Easy Weeknight Meatball Sub Recipe

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★★★★★

5 from 139 reviews

This Easy Weeknight Meatball Sub recipe is a quick and delicious way to enjoy hearty meatballs smothered in marinara sauce, served on a soft sub roll. Perfect for a comforting dinner or lunch, it combines juicy seasoned meatballs with gooey melted cheese for a satisfying meal anyone will love.

Ingredients

Scale

Meatballs

  • 1 pound ground beef (95% lean)
  • 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 1 large egg
  • 1–2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt

Sub Assembly

  • 24 homemade or frozen meatballs
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 cups marinara sauce
  • 4–6 sub rolls (optional, typically 6-inch rolls)
  • Shredded mozzarella or provolone cheese (optional, usually about 1 to 1 1/2 cups)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the meatballs: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, panko breadcrumbs, egg, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, and salt. Mix gently until all ingredients are evenly incorporated without overworking the meat.
  2. Shape and cook meatballs: Form the mixture into 24 evenly sized meatballs. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat and cook the meatballs in batches until browned on all sides and cooked through, about 8-10 minutes total. Alternatively, use frozen cooked meatballs, thawed before use.
  3. Simmer meatballs in sauce: Add the cooked meatballs to a saucepan with marinara sauce. Simmer over low heat for 10 minutes to let the flavors meld and heat through thoroughly.
  4. Assemble subs: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Slice the sub rolls open lengthwise without cutting all the way through. Place 5-6 meatballs with sauce in each roll, spoon extra sauce on top, and optionally sprinkle shredded mozzarella or provolone cheese generously over the meatballs.
  5. Bake to melt cheese: Place assembled subs on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the bread is slightly toasted.
  6. Serve: Remove from oven carefully and serve the meatball subs hot. Enjoy your quick, satisfying meal!

Notes

  • For a lighter version, use turkey or chicken ground meat instead of beef.
  • Frozen meatballs can save time; just be sure to thaw and heat them thoroughly in the marinara sauce.
  • Add fresh basil or parsley to the sauce for extra flavor.
  • Use provolone or mozzarella cheese for best melting and taste.
  • Sub rolls can be toasted before assembling for added crunch.

Keywords: meatball sub, easy meatball sandwich, weeknight dinner, Italian sandwich, homemade meatballs, marinara sauce, sub sandwich

Find it online: https://spatulaqueen.com/easy-weeknight-meatball-sub-recipe/