When it comes to comfort food, few things can compete with a meatball sub. This classic sandwich, with its warm, flavorful meatballs smothered in marinara sauce and melted cheese, is a favorite for good reason. Whether you’re prepping for game day or just want a hearty meal, the best meatball sub is sure to satisfy!
Why Make This Recipe
Making your own meatball sub at home is incredibly rewarding. You have full control over the ingredients, allowing you to customize flavors and textures. Additionally, this recipe is straightforward and quick to prepare, making it a perfect weeknight dinner. Plus, who doesn’t love a messy, cheesy sandwich that’s packed with flavor?
How to Make The Best Meatball Sub
Ingredients:
- 4 hoagie rolls
- 4 tbsp butter
- 20 homemade meatballs (fully cooked and warmed through)
- 2 cups marinara sauce (or your favorite marinara sauce)
- 2 cups provolone cheese (shredded, or mozzarella)
Directions:
- In a medium-sized saucepan, add the cooked meatballs and 2 cups of marinara sauce. Heat over medium heat for about 5 minutes to warm the meatballs and sauce.
- While the sauce is warming, prepare the hoagie rolls by preheating the oven to broil.
- Gently slice each roll down the middle, making sure not to cut all the way through. Brush 1 tbsp of softened butter onto each sandwich roll. Feel free to season the bread with garlic salt or Italian seasoning if desired.
- Place the hoagie rolls on a baking sheet and into the preheated oven. Be careful to watch the rolls closely. Toasting the rolls on broil should only take 2-3 minutes. They will burn quickly if you don’t watch them.
- Once the rolls are toasted, remove them from the oven and fill each roll with the warm meatballs and sauce mixture. Each hoagie roll should generously fit 5 meatballs. Add the desired sauce amount to your liking.
- Top the meatballs with freshly grated provolone, mozzarella, or cheese of your choice.
- Return the hoagies to the oven and broil just until the cheese is melted. This will also be quick, taking about 1-2 minutes. Serve and enjoy while hot with fresh parsley garnished on top!
How to Serve The Best Meatball Sub
Serve your meatball subs while they are still warm. They can be accompanied by a simple salad or some crispy fries for a complete meal. For extra flavor, drizzle some extra marinara sauce over the top or add some pickled peppers for a zing.
How to Store The Best Meatball Sub
If you have leftovers, wrap the subs tightly in foil or plastic wrap and store them in the refrigerator. They can last for about 2-3 days. To reheat, warm them in the oven at a low temperature until heated through, adding a little extra cheese if desired.
Tips to Make The Best Meatball Sub
- Make Extra Meatballs: Cooking more meatballs than you need? You can freeze them for later use! Just thaw and heat for an easy meal.
- Customize the Cheese: Don’t feel limited to provolone or mozzarella – try cheddar, pepper jack, or even blue cheese for a different twist.
- Add Veggies: For added freshness, toss in some sautéed bell peppers or onions into your sub.
Variation
For a spicy version, consider adding some sliced jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce. You could also swap the meatballs for grilled chicken or a plant-based option to cater to different dietary preferences.
FAQs
- Can I use store-bought meatballs?
- Yes, store-bought meatballs can save time. Just heat them with your marinara sauce before assembling the sub.
- Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
- Absolutely! Just use gluten-free hoagie rolls and ensure your meatballs and sauce are also gluten-free.
- What other sauces can I use?
- Besides marinara, you can try barbecue sauce, Alfredo sauce, or even a spicy arrabbiata for a different flavor profile.
Meatball Sub
Ingredients
For the sub
- 4 pieces hoagie rolls Soft rolls ideal for filling.
- 4 tbsp butter, softened For brushing on the rolls.
- 20 pieces homemade meatballs Fully cooked and warmed through.
- 2 cups marinara sauce Or your favorite style.
- 2 cups provolone cheese, shredded Or mozzarella, other cheeses can be used.
Instructions
Preparation
- In a medium-sized saucepan, add the cooked meatballs and marinara sauce. Heat over medium heat for about 5 minutes to warm the meatballs and sauce.
- While the sauce is warming, preheat the oven to broil.
- Gently slice each roll down the middle, brushing 1 tbsp of softened butter onto each sandwich roll, optionally season with garlic salt or Italian seasoning.
- Place the hoagie rolls on a baking sheet and toast in the oven for 2-3 minutes, watching closely to avoid burning.
Assembly
- Remove toasted rolls from the oven and fill each with the warm meatballs and sauce mixture, adding 5 meatballs per roll.
- Top with the desired amount of cheese.
- Return the hoagies to the oven and broil just until the cheese is melted, approximately 1-2 minutes.
Serving
- Serve your meatball subs while still warm, optionally garnished with fresh parsley.
