Meatball Subs: 7 Simple Steps to Comforting Delights

Name: Meatball Subs: 7 Simple Steps to Comforting Delights
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/4 cup chopped parsley; 1 egg; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 1 jar marinara sauce; 4 sub rolls; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

October 15, 2025

By:

Julia marin

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There’s just something about meatball subs that wraps you in a warm, cozy hug! The combination of tender meatballs swimming in rich marinara sauce, all nestled in a soft sub roll, is pure comfort food bliss. Trust me, once you take that first bite, you’ll be hooked. I remember the first time I made these with my family on a rainy Saturday afternoon. The kitchen was filled with laughter and the irresistible aroma of garlic and herbs—absolutely heavenly! And the best part? They’re super easy to whip up, making them perfect for busy weeknights or a fun weekend treat. So, roll up your sleeves and let’s dive into this delicious adventure of making the ultimate meatball subs! You won’t regret it!

meatball subs - detail 1

Ingredients List

Here’s what you’ll need to make the most delicious meatball subs! I’ve made sure to keep it simple and straightforward, so you can gather everything quickly and get cooking.

1 pound ground beef
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup chopped parsley
1 egg
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 jar marinara sauce (about 24 ounces)
4 sub rolls (soft and fresh, please!)
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Feel free to switch things up a bit if you like! You can use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option, and don’t hesitate to add extra herbs for that flavor boost. Now that you’ve got your ingredients, let’s get cooking!

How to Prepare Instructions

Alright, let’s get to the fun part—making those incredible meatball subs! Follow these steps, and you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time.

Preheat and Prepare Ingredients

First things first, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Trust me, this is crucial because a hot oven helps the meatballs cook evenly and get that lovely golden color! While the oven is heating up, gather all your ingredients. Having everything ready to go will make the process so much smoother, and you can focus on the fun of mixing and shaping the meatballs!

Mixing Ingredients

In a big mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, chopped parsley, egg, garlic powder, and onion powder. Now, here’s the fun part—get your hands in there! Mix everything together until it’s well combined. You want a cohesive mixture that holds together, but be careful not to overmix; otherwise, your meatballs might end up a bit tough. Aim for a nice, slightly sticky texture that feels like it wants to be formed into meatballs!

Forming and Baking Meatballs

Now that you’ve got your mixture ready, it’s time to roll! Grab a handful of the mixture and shape it into balls about the size of a golf ball. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, giving them a little space to breathe. Pop those bad boys in the oven and bake for about 20 minutes, or until they’re nice and browned. To check for doneness, cut one open and make sure there’s no pink inside. You want them fully cooked and juicy!

Simmering Meatballs in Sauce

While the meatballs are baking, it’s the perfect time to heat up your marinara sauce. Pour it into a pot over medium heat and let it start to warm up. Once your meatballs are done baking, add them to the simmering sauce and let them hang out for about 5 minutes. This is where the magic happens—the meatballs soak up all that delicious sauce flavor, making them even more irresistible!

Assembling Meatball Subs

Now, for the best part—assembling your subs! Slice your sub rolls down the middle (but don’t cut all the way through!). Lay them open on a baking sheet and start placing those saucy meatballs inside. Don’t be shy; pack them in! Once they’re all nestled in, sprinkle a generous amount of shredded mozzarella cheese on top. The more, the merrier when it comes to cheese!

Final Baking

Finally, pop the assembled subs back in the oven for about 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Keep an eye on them—once you see that golden, gooey cheese, you know they’re ready to come out. Let them cool for just a minute, then dig in! You’ve just made the most comforting, delicious meatball subs that will make everyone smile.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and easy to prepare—perfect for busy weeknights!
Rich, savory flavors that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
Comfort food at its finest—there’s just something so satisfying about a warm meatball sub!
Customizable ingredients—switch it up with turkey, chicken, or extra herbs for a personal touch.
A crowd-pleaser that’s great for family dinners, parties, or game day!
Leftovers (if you have any!) reheat beautifully, making for a delicious next-day lunch.
Simple ingredients you probably already have in your pantry, making it budget-friendly!

Tips for Success

Now that you’re ready to make these meatball subs, here are some of my favorite tips to ensure they turn out perfect every time!

Get Creative with Meat: If you’re looking for a lighter option, feel free to swap out the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken. They work beautifully and still taste amazing!
Spice it Up: Don’t hesitate to add your favorite spices or herbs to the meat mixture. A pinch of red pepper flakes can add a nice kick, while fresh basil or oregano will elevate the Italian flavor.
Breadcrumb Choices: You can use plain or seasoned breadcrumbs, but if you have some stale bread lying around, just blend it up! Homemade breadcrumbs can add a lovely texture and flavor.
Moisture is Key: If you find your meatballs are a bit dry, try adding a splash of milk or a tablespoon of olive oil to the mixture. This will keep them juicy and tender!
Make Ahead: You can prepare the meatballs in advance and freeze them. Just bake them, let them cool, and store them in an airtight container. When you’re ready to enjoy, simmer them in sauce straight from the freezer!
Cheese Lovers Unite: For an extra cheesy experience, mix some shredded mozzarella into the meatball mixture! It melts beautifully and makes every bite even more indulgent.
Don’t Skip the Sauce: Letting the meatballs simmer in the marinara sauce is crucial for flavor. If you have time, let them simmer for longer than 5 minutes—an extra 10 minutes will bring out even more depth in flavor!
Toasting the Rolls: For a little crunch, you can toast the inside of the sub rolls before filling them. A quick pass under the broiler will add a delightful crunch that pairs perfectly with the soft meatballs!

With these tips in your back pocket, you’re all set to create the best meatball subs ever! Enjoy the process and don’t forget to savor every delicious bite!

Nutritional Information

Here’s the estimated nutritional breakdown for each meatball sub. Keep in mind that these values can vary based on the specific ingredients you use, but this should give you a good idea of what to expect!

Serving Size: 1 sub
Calories: 450
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Unsaturated Fat: 10g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 70mg
Sodium: 800mg
Carbohydrates: 40g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 6g
Protein: 25g

This information is an estimate, but it should help you plan your meal. Enjoy your delicious meatball subs, and remember, it’s all about balance and enjoying every bite!

FAQ Section

Got questions about meatball subs? You’re not alone! Here are some of the most common inquiries I hear, along with my answers to help you make the best subs possible.

Can I use a different type of meat?

Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken are excellent alternatives if you’re looking for something lighter. You can also try ground pork for a bit more flavor! Just make sure whatever you choose is ground finely enough to hold together well.

How do I store leftover meatball subs?

To keep them fresh, wrap any leftover meatball subs tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store them in the refrigerator. They should be good for about 3-4 days. If you want to freeze them, I recommend separating the meatballs from the bread to retain the best texture!

Can I make the meatballs ahead of time?

You bet! You can prepare the meatballs and bake them in advance. Just let them cool completely, then store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days or freeze them for up to 3 months. When you’re ready, just heat them in the sauce and assemble your subs!

What can I use instead of marinara sauce?

If you’re in the mood for something different, try using Alfredo sauce or a homemade tomato sauce! You could even mix in some pesto for an interesting twist. Just remember that the flavor will change, but it can still be delicious!

Can I add veggies to my meatball subs?

Definitely! Sautéed peppers, onions, or even mushrooms would be fantastic additions. Just make sure to cook them a bit first so they don’t make the sub soggy. You can also add some fresh spinach or arugula right before serving for a nice crunch!

How do I reheat meatball subs?

The best way to reheat them is in the oven! Wrap them in foil and pop them in at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until they’re warmed through. This way, you’ll avoid a soggy sub and keep that cheese nice and melty!

Can I make these meatball subs vegetarian?

Absolutely! You can use plant-based meat alternatives or make your own veggie meatballs using lentils, chickpeas, or black beans. Just season them well and follow the same instructions, and you’ll have a delicious vegetarian version!

Feel free to reach out if you have more questions or need tips while making your meatball subs. Enjoy the cooking adventure!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Storing leftover meatball subs properly is key to keeping them delicious for those next-day cravings! If you have any subs left after your meal (which is always a great sign of a successful dinner), wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. This helps prevent them from drying out in the fridge. They should stay fresh for about 3-4 days.

If you want to keep them for longer, consider freezing them! Just separate the meatballs from the bread to maintain the best texture. You can freeze the meatballs in an airtight container or a resealable freezer bag for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy your meatball subs again, simply thaw the meatballs in the fridge overnight.

When it comes time to reheat, I recommend using the oven for the best results! Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), wrap the subs in foil to keep them moist, and bake for about 10-15 minutes, or until they’re warmed through. This way, you’ll avoid a soggy sub and keep that scrumptious cheese nice and melty. If you’re in a hurry, you can also use the microwave, but be cautious with timing to avoid overcooking the bread. Just pop them in for 30 seconds at a time until they’re hot enough for your liking.

With these storage and reheating tips, you can enjoy your meatball subs as if they were freshly made, even days later! Trust me, they’ll still taste amazing!

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About me

Hi, my name is Julia, I am the heart of Vihaad Recipes and a passionate lover of good food. My love for cooking began in childhood, inspired by my grandmother's delicious meals. Today, I share tasty recipes that bring people together through the shared enjoyment of food.