Weeknight Meatball Sub

by

A Weeknight Meatball Sub is the ultimate easy, satisfying meal that’s perfect for busy nights when you want something hearty and comforting without a lot of fuss. Tender, flavorful meatballs are simmered in a savory marinara sauce, then piled high on a toasted sub roll and topped with melty mozzarella cheese. The combination of warm, juicy meatballs, zesty tomato sauce, and gooey cheese makes every bite a delicious indulgence.

The first time I made a Weeknight Meatball Sub, I was surprised by how quickly it came together, yet it felt like a special meal. The meatballs were packed with flavor, the sauce was rich and comforting, and the melted cheese added the perfect finishing touch. What I love most about this sandwich is how customizable it is—you can add extras like sautéed peppers, onions, or even a sprinkle of Parmesan on top. Whether you serve it with a side of fries, a simple salad, or some crispy potato chips, this meatball sub is always a hit and perfect for a relaxed dinner!

Perfect for:

  • Weeknight dinners
  • Casual family meals
  • Game day snacks
  • Comfort food cravings
  • Cheese lovers

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here are 10 reasons why this Weeknight Meatball Sub will become your go-to meal:

  • Savory Meatballs: The combination of ground beef, breadcrumbs, and seasonings creates a perfectly juicy and flavorful meatball.
  • Melted Cheese: The gooey mozzarella or provolone adds the perfect creamy texture to each bite.
  • Tangy Marinara Sauce: The homemade marinara sauce is rich and flavorful, complementing the meatballs beautifully.
  • Quick and Easy: This recipe is simple and takes less than an hour to prepare, making it a great option for busy evenings.
  • Customizable: You can adjust the sauce and cheese according to your preferences, adding a spicy kick or a more mild option.
  • Perfectly Toasted Rolls: The sub rolls are toasted to golden perfection, creating a crispy exterior and soft interior.
  • Kid-Friendly: The familiar flavors of meatballs, cheese, and sauce make it a hit with children.
  • Make-Ahead Option: You can prepare the meatballs and sauce in advance for a super quick assembly at dinner time.
  • Filling and Hearty: This sub is a complete meal, filling enough to satisfy your hunger and keep you full.
  • Comfort Food Classic: It’s the kind of sandwich that brings warmth and comfort, perfect for any night of the week.

Preparation and Cooking Time

  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Preparation Time: 10 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 25 minutes
  • Servings: 4 servings
  • Calories per serving: Approximately 450-500 calories
  • Key Nutrients: Protein: 30g, Carbs: 45g, Fat: 18g

Ingredients

For the Meatballs:

  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (for frying)

The Marinara Sauce:

  • 2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder

For the Subs:

  • 4 sub rolls
  • 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella or provolone cheese
  • Fresh basil (optional garnish)

Ingredient Highlights

  • Ground Beef: The base of the meatballs, providing a rich, juicy texture.
  • Breadcrumbs: Help bind the meatballs together, keeping them tender.
  • Marinara Sauce: A tangy, flavorful complement to the savory meatballs.
  • Cheese: Mozzarella or provolone for that perfect melted gooey finish.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Make the Meatballs:

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Prepare Meatball Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, egg, garlic, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
  3. Shape Meatballs: Roll the mixture into 1-inch meatballs and set aside.
  4. Cook Meatballs: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add meatballs and cook, turning occasionally, until browned on all sides (about 7-8 minutes). Transfer to a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until cooked through.

Prepare the Marinara Sauce:

  1. Heat Sauce: While the meatballs are baking, combine marinara sauce, red pepper flakes, oregano, and garlic powder in a saucepan. Heat over medium heat until warmed through.

Assemble the Subs:

  1. Toast the Rolls: Slice the sub rolls in half lengthwise. Toast the rolls in the oven for 5-7 minutes, until golden and crispy.
  2. Add Meatballs and Sauce: Place 4-5 meatballs on each toasted roll. Spoon marinara sauce over the meatballs.
  3. Top with Cheese: Sprinkle shredded mozzarella or provolone cheese over the meatballs.
  4. Melt the Cheese: Return the sandwiches to the oven for 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Serve:

  1. Garnish and Serve: Garnish with fresh basil, if desired. Serve immediately with a side salad or chips.

How to Serve

Here are 10 serving suggestions for Weeknight Meatball Sub:

  • With a Side Salad: Pair with a fresh green salad for a well-rounded meal.
  • With Chips: Serve with crispy potato chips for an easy and satisfying side.
  • For a Spicy Kick: Add jalapeños or hot sauce for some heat.
  • As a Party Appetizer: Cut the subs into smaller portions for a great finger food option at parties.
  • With Garlic Bread: Pair with garlic bread for an extra boost of flavor.
  • With a Side of Fries: Crispy French fries make a perfect accompaniment to this sub.
  • For Kids’ Lunch: Make a smaller version for a kid-friendly lunch or snack.
  • As a Comforting Dinner: Serve with a side of roasted vegetables for a cozy dinner.
  • For Game Day: Serve with pickles or a fresh slaw for a perfect game day snack.
  • For a Movie Night: Pair with a classic soda or beer for a relaxed movie night treat.

Additional Tips

  • Make Meatballs Ahead: You can prepare the meatballs in advance and refrigerate them until you’re ready to cook.
  • Make Your Own Marinara Sauce: Use a homemade marinara sauce for a more flavorful base.
  • Keep the Meatballs Juicy: Don’t overcook the meatballs; they should be tender and juicy inside.
  • Use Fresh Rolls: Opt for fresh sub rolls for the best texture and taste.
  • Skip Frying: If you prefer a healthier option, bake the meatballs instead of frying them.

Recipe Variations

  • Turkey Meatball Sub: Substitute ground turkey for a leaner version of this sandwich.
  • Veggie Meatball Sub: Use vegetarian or vegan meatballs for a plant-based alternative.
  • Spicy Meatball Sub: Add crushed red pepper or hot sausage to the meatball mixture for extra heat.
  • Cheesy Garlic Bread Sub: Spread garlic butter on the rolls before toasting for a garlic bread twist.
  • BBQ Meatball Sub: Swap marinara for barbecue sauce for a smoky, sweet flavor.
  • Italian Meatball Sub: Add a sprinkle of Italian seasoning or fresh basil to enhance the flavor.
  • Cheddar Cheese Sub: Use cheddar cheese for a sharper flavor that contrasts with the marinara.
  • Gluten-Free Sub: Use gluten-free rolls and breadcrumbs for a gluten-free version.
  • Meatball Sub with Roasted Veggies: Add roasted bell peppers, onions, and zucchini for a veggie-packed option.
  • Meatball Sub with Pesto: Spread basil pesto on the rolls before adding the meatballs for a herby twist.

Special Equipment

  • Skillet: For frying the meatballs until golden brown.
  • Baking Sheet: To bake the meatballs after they’re browned.
  • Saucepan: For warming the marinara sauce.
  • Oven: To toast the rolls and melt the cheese.
  • Tongs: To handle the meatballs while frying and assembling the sub.
  • Meat Thermometer: Optional, for ensuring meatballs are fully cooked.

FAQ Section

  1. Can I use frozen meatballs?
    Yes, frozen meatballs can be used. Just heat them in the marinara sauce until warmed through.
  2. How long do meatball subs last in the fridge?
    The subs can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
  3. Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
    Yes, marinara sauce can be made in advance and stored in the fridge for up to 5 days.
  4. Can I freeze the meatballs?
    Yes, you can freeze cooked meatballs for up to 3 months. Reheat them in the microwave or oven before serving.
  5. Can I use a different type of bread?
    Yes, you can use hoagie rolls, baguettes, or even whole-wheat rolls as an alternative.
  6. Can I make this a vegetarian sub?
    Yes, use vegetarian or plant-based meatballs for a vegetarian-friendly option.
  7. How do I prevent the sub rolls from getting soggy?
    Toast the rolls and keep the sauce on the side until ready to serve.
  8. Can I add vegetables to the meatball sub?
    Yes, add sautéed onions, bell peppers, or mushrooms for extra flavor and texture.
  9. How do I make the meatballs more tender?
    Avoid overmixing the meatball mixture and use lean ground beef for the best texture.
  10. Can I use a different cheese?
    Yes, provolone, mozzarella, or even gouda work great on these subs.

Conclusion

Weeknight Meatball Sub is a quick, easy, and delicious meal that brings together tender, juicy meatballs, marinara sauce, and gooey melted cheese, all nestled in a warm, toasted sub roll. It’s the ultimate comfort food that’s perfect for busy evenings when you want something hearty and satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen. The meatballs are often pre-cooked or made quickly with simple ingredients like ground beef, breadcrumbs, and Italian seasonings, making this dish a breeze to prepare.

You can customize your sub with extra toppings like fresh basil, extra cheese, or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a little heat. Serve it with a side of crispy fries, a green salad, or a pickle for a complete meal that’s sure to please the whole family.

I can’t wait to see how your Weeknight Meatball Sub turns out! Be sure to share your photos on Instagram and tag me—I’d love to see your tasty creations. Don’t forget to leave a comment and let me know how you made this dish your own!