Easy Weeknight Meatball Sub

These Easy Weeknight Meatball Subs are the ultimate comfort food, featuring juicy homemade meatballs, marinara sauce, and gooey melted mozzarella cheese all stuffed into soft buns. Whether you’re looking for a quick and satisfying dinner or an easy-to-make meal that the whole family will love, this recipe is sure to hit the spot!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This meatball sub recipe is not only delicious but also simple and quick to prepare. The homemade meatballs are packed with flavor and cooked in marinara sauce, making them tender and juicy. Topped with melted mozzarella cheese and served on soft, warm buns, these meatball subs are the perfect combination of savory and cheesy comfort. Plus, they’re easily customizable with your favorite marinara sauce and cheese, making them a go-to for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

For the Homemade Meatballs:

• 1 pound ground beef (95% lean)

• ½ cup panko breadcrumbs

• 1 large egg

• 1-2 garlic cloves, minced

• 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning

• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes

• ½ teaspoon salt

For the Meatball Subs:

• 24 homemade or frozen meatballs

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 2 cups marinara sauce

• 8 hot dog buns

• 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Make the Meatballs:

1. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, panko breadcrumbs, egg, garlic, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, and salt.

2. Mix the ingredients together until fully combined. Then, shape the mixture into 24 meatballs, about 1 ½ inches in diameter.

Cook the Meatballs:

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

2. Add the meatballs to the skillet, turning them every minute or so until they are browned on all sides.

3. Once browned, reduce the heat to low and add the marinara sauce. Stir to coat the meatballs in sauce, then cover the skillet.

4. Let the meatballs simmer on medium-low for 15 minutes, or until they reach an internal temperature of 160°F.

If Using Frozen Meatballs:

1. Heat the marinara sauce in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the sauce starts to simmer, add the frozen meatballs and cover.

2. Reduce the heat to medium-low and cook for about 25 minutes, or until the meatballs are heated through.

Prepare the Buns:

1. While the meatballs are cooking, place the hot dog buns on a baking sheet.

2. Position the top rack in your oven about 6 inches below the broiler.

Broil the Subs:

1. Preheat the broiler.

2. Once the meatballs are done, add 3 meatballs to each bun.

3. Top each with marinara sauce and a generous amount of shredded mozzarella cheese.

4. Place the baking sheet under the broiler and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese has melted and the buns are golden. Keep a close eye on them to avoid burning the buns.

Serve:

1. Serve the meatball subs immediately, and enjoy the delicious, melty goodness!

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 35 minutes

• Total Time: 45 minutes

• Servings: 8 subs

Variations

• Add Veggies: Top the subs with sautéed mushrooms, onions, or bell peppers for extra flavor and texture.

• Cheese Options: While mozzarella is traditional, you can use provolone, cheddar, or a blend of Italian cheeses for a different flavor profile.

• Spicy Version: For a spicier kick, add crushed red pepper flakes to the meatball mixture or use a spicy marinara sauce.

• Vegetarian Meatballs: Swap out the ground beef for vegetarian meatballs made from plant-based protein or lentils for a meatless version.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Leftover meatball subs can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

• Reheating: To reheat, place the meatball subs in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also reheat them in the microwave, but the texture may be less crispy.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought meatballs instead of making my own?

Yes! Store-bought meatballs can be used for a quicker option. Just heat them up in the marinara sauce as directed and follow the rest of the recipe.

How do I make the meatballs more tender?

To make the meatballs tender, don’t overmix the meat mixture, and avoid overcooking them. Adding breadcrumbs and a bit of milk or egg helps keep them moist.

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the meatballs and sauce ahead of time and refrigerate them until you’re ready to assemble and broil the subs.

Can I freeze the meatballs?

Yes, you can freeze the meatballs before or after cooking. Store them in a freezer-safe container, and they’ll keep for up to 3 months. When ready to use, thaw them overnight in the fridge and heat them up in marinara sauce before assembling the subs.

Can I use a different type of bread for the sub?

Absolutely! You can use hoagie rolls, baguettes, or any type of bread you prefer for the subs.

Conclusion

These Easy Weeknight Meatball Subs are the perfect combination of juicy homemade meatballs, savory marinara sauce, and melted cheese, all stuffed into a soft, toasted bun. Quick, easy, and packed with flavor, they’re the perfect meal for busy evenings when you want something comforting and satisfying. Whether you’re serving them for dinner or as a fun family meal, these meatball subs are sure to become a favorite!

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