Name: Italian Meatball Sub
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef (80/20 for best flavor and juiciness); 1/2 lb Italian sausage, casings removed; 1/2 cup plain breadcrumbs; 1/4 cup whole milk; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley; 1 egg; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 2 cups marinara sauce; 4 soft hoagie rolls or sub rolls; 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Optional: extra Parmesan, fresh basil for garnish

Hey y’all! If you’re on the hunt for a comforting, crowd-pleasing sandwich, this Italian Meatball Sub is your answer. Picture juicy, tender meatballs simmered in zesty marinara, tucked inside a fluffy hoagie roll, and smothered in gooey, melted mozzarella. It’s the kind of meal that satisfies your soul, whether you’re feeding the family, hosting game day, or simply treating yourself to something special. Ready to bring these classic Italian flavors to your kitchen? Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This

Loaded with cheesy, saucy goodness that’s totally crave-worthy.
Perfect for meal prep or easy weeknight dinners.
Customizable to include your favorite toppings and cheeses.
Filling and hearty—one sub is a complete meal!
Great for parties, casual get-togethers, or feeding a hungry crowd.

Ingredients

1 lb ground beef (80/20 for best flavor and juiciness)
1/2 lb Italian sausage, casings removed
1/2 cup plain breadcrumbs
1/4 cup whole milk
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
1 egg
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
2 cups marinara sauce
4 soft hoagie rolls or sub rolls
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Optional: extra Parmesan, fresh basil for garnish

Directions

Step 1: Prep the Meatball Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, Italian sausage, breadcrumbs, milk, Parmesan, parsley, egg, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper. Mix gently with your hands just until combined—don’t overwork, to keep the meatballs tender.

Step 2: Shape and Bake Meatballs

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Using damp hands, shape the mixture into golf ball-sized meatballs (about 16 total) and place them on the prepared sheet. Bake for 18-20 minutes, until golden and cooked through.

Step 3: Simmer Meatballs in Sauce

In a large skillet over medium heat, pour in the marinara sauce and add the baked meatballs. Let them simmer in the sauce for 10 minutes so they soak up maximum flavor.

Step 4: Prep the Rolls

While the meatballs simmer, split the hoagie rolls lengthwise (without cutting all the way through) and spread the inside with softened butter. Sprinkle with Italian seasoning. Toast in the oven at 400°F for 3-4 minutes, until lightly golden.

Step 5: Assemble the Subs

Place 4 meatballs and a generous spoonful of sauce into each roll. Scatter mozzarella cheese over the top. Return subs to the oven and bake for 4-5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 6: Serve

Remove from oven, garnish with extra grated Parmesan and fresh basil if desired, and serve immediately while hot and cheesy!

Notes

If your rolls are extra soft, toast for an additional 1-2 minutes so they hold up to the sauciness.
Swap in turkey or chicken for a lighter version—just adjust cooking time as needed.
Double the batch and freeze extra meatballs for quick future meals!

Variations

Spicy Meatball Subs: Add 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes to the meatball mix.
Vegetarian Version: Substitute with your favorite plant-based meatballs and marinara sauce.
Loaded Subs: Add sautéed peppers and onions or a smear of pesto to the sandwich before baking.

Required Equipment

Large mixing bowl
Baking sheet
Parchment paper
Large skillet
Chef’s knife and cutting board
Oven

Storage Instructions

Store leftover meatballs and sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Assembled subs are best eaten fresh, but can be refrigerated for up to 1 day—reheat in the oven to crisp the rolls and melt the cheese again.
Meatballs may be frozen (without sauce) for up to 3 months. Thaw and reheat as needed.

Suggested Pairings & Serving Recommendations

Pair with crispy potato wedges, a simple green salad, or homemade coleslaw.
Serve alongside a bowl of minestrone or tomato basil soup for a cozy meal.
Cold sodas, iced tea, or a light Italian red wine (like Chianti) all make great beverage choices.

Pro Tips

Keep your hands damp while rolling meatballs to prevent sticking.
Use freshly grated mozzarella for the best melt and creamy texture.
Bake the subs open-faced for a few extra minutes if you like an extra bubbly, browned cheese top.

FAQ

Can I make the meatballs ahead of time? Yes! Cooked meatballs keep well in the fridge for 3-4 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months.
What kind of bread works best? Hoagie rolls, sub rolls, or any soft sandwich rolls with a sturdy base work great so they can hold all the fillings and sauce.
How do I prevent soggy subs? Toast the inside of the rolls first and keep the sauce layer moderate to maintain structure.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes

Italian Meatball Sub

Why You’ll Love This

Ingredients