Meatball Marinara Sub Sandwiches (Printable Version)

Tender beef meatballs in marinara sauce on toasted rolls topped with melted cheese and fresh herbs.

# What You'll Need:

→ Meatballs

01 - 1 lb ground beef
02 - 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
03 - 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
04 - 1 large egg
05 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
06 - 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
07 - 1 tsp dried oregano
08 - 1 tsp salt
09 - 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
10 - 2 tbsp milk

→ Marinara Sauce

11 - 2 tbsp olive oil
12 - 1 small onion, finely chopped
13 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
14 - 28 oz canned crushed tomatoes
15 - 1 tsp sugar
16 - 1 tsp dried basil
17 - 1/2 tsp dried thyme
18 - 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
19 - Salt and ground black pepper to taste

→ Assembly

20 - 4 rustic sub rolls or hoagie rolls (8 inches each)
21 - 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
22 - 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
23 - Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)

# Directions:

01 - Preheat the oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
02 - In a large bowl, gently mix ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, egg, garlic, parsley, oregano, salt, pepper, and milk until just combined.
03 - Form the mixture into 16 meatballs, approximately 1.5 inches each, and place evenly on the prepared baking sheet.
04 - Bake meatballs for 18 to 20 minutes until browned and cooked through.
05 - Heat olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Sauté onion until softened, about 3 to 4 minutes. Add garlic and cook for 1 more minute.
06 - Add crushed tomatoes, sugar, basil, thyme, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper to the pan. Bring to a simmer and cook uncovered for 15 to 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
07 - Transfer baked meatballs into the marinara sauce and simmer together for 5 to 10 minutes to blend flavors.
08 - Slice sub rolls lengthwise, keeping one edge attached. Place on a baking tray and toast in the oven for 3 to 4 minutes until lightly crisp.
09 - Nestle 4 meatballs with marinara sauce into each toasted sub roll. Top with shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese.
10 - Return assembled sandwiches to the oven for 3 to 5 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
11 - Optionally garnish with fresh basil or parsley and serve immediately while hot.

# Expert Tips:

01 -
  • Hearty and comforting meal perfect for colder days or family dinners.
  • Tender beef meatballs bursting with Italian herbs and cheese.
  • Rich homemade marinara sauce that’s simple yet full of flavor.
  • The combination of melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheese creates a gooey, cheesy indulgence.
  • Easy to assemble and customize based on your preferences.
02 -
  • Use fresh herbs like parsley and basil to brighten the flavor of meatballs and sauce.
  • Be careful not to overmix the meatball mixture for tender results.
  • Simmer sauce long enough to develop deep flavors without letting it dry out.
  • Toast the rolls just before assembly to keep them crisp.
  • Use a mixture of mozzarella and Parmesan for best melting and flavor.
Go Back