Meatball Marinara Sub Sandwiches

Meatball Marinara Sub Sandwiches are the ultimate comfort food, combining tender, juicy beef meatballs slowly simmered in a rich, flavorful marinara sauce. Nestled inside toasted rustic rolls and topped with gooey melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, these sandwiches deliver a warm, satisfying experience that’s perfect for cozy gatherings and hearty appetites alike.

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This recipe balances simple, classic ingredients to create a flavorful Italian-American dish that’s sure to please. The combination of herbs in the meatballs and sauce brings depth, while the baked cheese topping adds indulgence. Easy to prepare yet impressive, these subs make a perfect main dish for any occasion.

Ingredients

• For the Meatballs
  • 500 g (1 lb) ground beef
  • 50 g (1/2 cup) breadcrumbs
  • 40 g (1/4 cup) grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 2 tbsp milk
• For the Marinara Sauce
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 800 g (28 oz) canned crushed tomatoes
  • 1 tsp sugar
  • 1 tsp dried basil
  • 1/2 tsp dried thyme
  • 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
• For Assembly
  • 4 rustic sub rolls or hoagie rolls (about 20 cm / 8 inches each)
  • 160 g (1 1/2 cups) shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 40 g (1/4 cup) grated Parmesan cheese
  • Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, egg, garlic, parsley, oregano, salt, pepper, and milk. Mix gently until combined—do not overwork.

3. Shape the mixture into 16 meatballs (about 3-4 cm each) and arrange them on the prepared baking sheet.

4. Bake the meatballs for 18–20 minutes, until browned and cooked through.

5. While the meatballs bake, heat olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add onion and cook 3–4 minutes until soft. Add garlic and sauté 1 minute.

6. Stir in crushed tomatoes, sugar, basil, thyme, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook uncovered for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally.

7. Add the baked meatballs to the sauce. Simmer together for 5–10 minutes to allow flavors to meld.

8. Slice each sub roll lengthwise, leaving one side attached. Place on a baking tray and toast in the oven for 3–4 minutes until lightly crisp.

9. Spoon 4 meatballs and plenty of marinara sauce into each roll. Top with mozzarella and Parmesan.

10. Return subs to the oven for 3–5 minutes, until cheese is melted and bubbly.

11. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley, if desired. Serve hot.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

For a tender texture, avoid overmixing the meatball mixture. Use fresh herbs when possible for a brighter flavor. Toasting the rolls adds a delightful crunch that complements the saucy filling. Adjust red pepper flakes to control spice level.

Varianten und Anpassungen

Try mixing ground pork with the beef for enhanced flavor and juiciness. Customize the marinara with sautéed bell peppers or sliced olives for variations. Substitute gluten-free breadcrumbs and rolls to suit dietary needs.

Serviervorschläge

Serve these meatball subs with a crisp green salad and pair with a glass of Chianti or your favorite robust red wine for a complete Italian-American meal.

Quickly slice, dice, grate, and spiralize vegetables for salads, stir fries, and faster everyday meal prep.

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These Meatball Marinara Sub Sandwiches combine tradition and taste in every bite. Perfect for sharing or savoring alone, they bring warmth and satisfaction to any meal, making them an enduring favorite in Italian-American cuisine.

Recipe FAQs

→ What type of meat is best for the meatballs?

Ground beef is used for its rich flavor and tenderness, but mixing in pork can add extra moisture and depth.

→ How do you keep the meatballs tender and juicy?

Using breadcrumbs, milk, and a gentle mixing method helps maintain moisture and tenderness without overworking the meat.

→ Can I make the marinara sauce spicier?

Yes, adding red pepper flakes during simmering will introduce a gentle heat to the sauce.

→ What is the best way to toast the sub rolls?

Slice the rolls lengthwise without cutting all the way through, then toast them in the oven for 3–4 minutes until lightly crisp.

→ How should the cheese be added for perfect melting?

Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan on top of the filled subs, then bake briefly until the cheese melts and bubbles.