Okay, friends, let’s talk about comfort food. You know, that one dish that just wraps you in a warm hug and makes everything feel right? For me, it’s always been meatball subs. My grandma used to make them every Sunday, and the aroma would fill the entire house. This isn’t just any meatball sub; it’s THE meatball subs recipe. It’s the kind of recipe that makes you close your eyes and savor every single bite. If you’re a fan of a classic lasagna, get ready, because these subs will steal your heart! They are surprisingly easy, packed with flavor, and seriously, my kids ask for these at least once a week. This particular recipe is slightly different from what you might be used to because I bake my meatballs inside the sauce for maximum flavor!

What is a meatball sub recipe?

So, what exactly are we talking about here? A meatball sub is, at its heart, a glorious sandwich. Think of it as a deconstructed meatball parm, but even better. It’s essentially seasoned meatballs, simmered in a rich, savory tomato sauce, nestled inside a crusty roll, and topped with a generous blanket of melted cheese. The beauty of the meatball subs recipe lies in its simplicity. It’s not fussy or complicated. It’s just honest, delicious food. The name “meatball sub” is pretty self-explanatory, I think, but it’s also a blank canvas for creativity. You can use different types of cheese, add your favorite herbs to the sauce, or even sneak in some veggies. But at its core, it’s a celebration of meatballs, sauce, bread, and cheese – the Perfect Comfort Food quartet.

Why do I love this recipe?

Seriously, where do I even begin? What I love most about this meatball subs recipe is how unbelievably flavorful it is. The meatballs are seasoned to perfection, the sauce is rich and tangy, and the bread is the perfect vessel to soak up all that goodness. But the best part? It’s SO easy! This is the kind of meal you can whip up on a busy weeknight and still impress everyone at the table. Let’s break down why you will adore this:

• Flavor Explosion:What are some of the best meatballs in the world? I always add a pinch of red pepper flakes to my sauce for some kick, which really elevates the sauce. What is the whole experience
• EffortlessDon’t be intimidated! What is one of those recipes that looks fancy but is actually incredibly straightforward. What are some good pre-made meatballs that you can make yourself?
• Budget FriendlyAll the ingredients are pantry staples, so you don’t have to break the bank to make a delicious meal. What are some good ground beef spices to buy?
• Versatile DelightCan you customize this recipe to your liking? Add different cheeses, experiment with herbs, or sneak in veggies for a healthier twist. What are the endless possibilities?

If you love my easy spaghetti and meatballs recipe, you will definitely flip for these subs. What is a good meatball sub recipe? Is it a crowd pleaser?

How do I make meatball subs?

Quick Overview

Making these incredible meatball subs is surprisingly simple. First, you’ll whip up a batch of flavorful meatballs. Then, you’ll simmer them in a rich tomato sauce until they’re cooked through and infused with all that delicious flavor. Finally, you’ll assemble the subs with crusty rolls, plenty of sauce, and a generous amount of cheese, and bake until the cheese is melted and bubbly. The secret? Don’t overcrowd the meatballs in the pot and make sure you get a nice sear on them before simmering. It’s the little things that make this recipe special!

Ingredients

For the Meatballs: What
* 1 pound ground beef (80/20 blend is ideal for flavor and moisture)
* 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (I prefer Italian seasoned, but plain works too)
* 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (freshly sliced is best)
* 1 large egg, lightly beaten
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1 teaspoon dried oregano
* 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
* 1/4 teaspoon salt
* 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For the Sauce:
* 1 tablespoon olive oil
* 1/2 onion, chopped
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes (San Marzano are the best if you can find them)
* 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
* 1 teaspoon dried oregano
* 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
* 1/4 teaspoon Red Pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat).
* 1/2 teaspoon salt
* 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
* 1 teaspoon sugar (to balance the acidity of the tomatoes)

For the Subs:
* 4 crusty sub rolls (Italian or French rolls work well)
* 8 ounces mozzarella cheese, shredded (or provolone) if you prefer.

What is the step-

Step 1: Preheat & Prep Pan

First things first, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven is heating, grease a baking sheet. How do you prevent subs from sticking and make cleanup a breeze? I also like to line the baking sheet with parchment paper for even easier cleanup! I have skipped this step before and ended up with a sticky mess.

Step 2: Make the Meatballs

In a large bowl, combine all the meatball ingredients. Ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Gently mix everything together with your hands until just combined. Do not overmix meatballs, as this can make them tough. I always do a taste test of the mixture (before adding the egg! What are some good ways to make sure the seasoning is just right.

Step 3: Shape the Meatballs

Using your hands, roll the meat mixture into about 12-16 meatballs, depending on how big you like them. I usually aim for about 1.5-inch meatballs. Place the meatballs on the prepared baking sheet. Don’t worry about them being perfectly round; a little rustic charm is always welcome!

Step 4: Bake the Meatballs

Bake meatballs in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they are cooked through. How do you cook While the meatballs are baking, it’s time to make the sauce.

Step 5: Make the Sauce

In a large saucepan or pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic! I always keep a close eye on it and stir frequently.

Step 6: Simmer the Sauce

Pour in the crushed tomatoes and tomato sauce. Stir in the oregano, basil, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, pepper, and sugar. Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for at least 15 minutes, or up to an hour, stirring occasionally. The longer it simmers, the more the flavors will meld together.

Step 7: Combine Meatballs and Sauce

Once the meatballs are baked, transfer them to the simmering sauce. Gently stir to coat them in the sauce. Let the meatballs simmer in the sauce for another 10-15 minutes, so they can soak up all that delicious flavor. This is where the magic happens!

Step 8: Assemble the Subs

While the meatballs are simmering in the sauce, prepare the sub rolls. If you want, you can lightly toast the rolls for a little extra crunch. I usually just pop them in the oven for a few minutes. Split each roll open and divide the meatballs and sauce evenly among the rolls. Top with the shredded mozzarella cheese.

Step 9: Bake the Subs

Place the assembled subs on the baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Keep a close eye on them to prevent the cheese from burning.

Step 10: Serve & Enjoy!

Remove the meatball subs from the oven and let them cool for a minute before serving. Garnish with fresh basil or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, if desired. And then…dig in! Be careful, they’re hot!

What to Serve It With

These meatball subs are a meal in themselves, but if you’re looking to round out your meal, here are a few serving suggestions:

• For a Casual Lunch: Serve with a side of crispy potato chips or a simple green salad. A classic Caesar salad would also be delicious!
• For a Dinner Party: Pair with roasted vegetables, such as broccoli or Brussels sprouts. The slight bitterness of the vegetables will complement the richness of the subs.
• For Game Day: Offer a variety of toppings, such as sliced pickles, onions, and peppers, so everyone can customize their subs to their liking. Don’t forget the napkins!
• For a Simple Weeknight Meal: Keep it easy with a side of garlic bread. Who can resist garlic bread with meatball subs?

My family tradition is to always have a big bowl of coleslaw on the side. The cool, creamy slaw provides a nice contrast to the warm, savory subs. Whatever you choose, make sure it complements the flavors of the meatball subs. And most importantly, have fun!

Top Tips for Perfecting Your Meatball Subs Recipe

Okay, let’s get down to some serious meatball sub wisdom. I’ve made these countless times, and I’ve learned a few tricks along the way:

• Meatball Magic: Don’t overmix the meatball mixture! Overmixing will result in tough meatballs. Gently combine the ingredients until just combined.
• Breadcrumb Brilliance: Use Italian seasoned breadcrumbs for extra flavor. If you only have plain breadcrumbs, add a pinch of Italian seasoning to the mixture.
• Cheese Choices: While mozzarella is the classic choice, feel free to experiment with other cheeses, such as provolone, fontina, or even a blend of cheeses.
• Sauce Secrets: For a richer sauce, add a tablespoon of tomato paste to the saucepan along with the crushed tomatoes and tomato sauce.
• Garlic Genius: Don’t burn the garlic! Burnt garlic will make the sauce bitter. Cook the garlic over low heat until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
• Roll Refinement: If you can’t find crusty sub rolls, use Italian or French bread instead. Just make sure the bread is sturdy enough to hold the meatballs and sauce.
• Baking Balance: Keep a close eye on the subs while they’re baking to prevent the cheese from burning. If the cheese starts to brown too quickly, cover the subs with foil.

One time, I accidentally used too much breadcrumbs in the meatball mixture, and the meatballs turned out dry and crumbly. So, trust me, stick to the recipe! Also, I’ve experimented with adding a splash of red wine to the sauce, and it gives it a wonderful depth of flavor. Try it sometime!

Storing and Reheating Tips

If you happen to have any leftovers (which is rare in my house!), here’s how to store and reheat them:

• Refrigerator Storage: Store the meatball subs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezer Instructions: For longer storage, wrap the meatball subs individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months.
• Reheating in the Oven: To reheat the meatball subs in the oven, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the subs on a baking sheet and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.
• Reheating in the Microwave: To reheat the meatball subs in the microwave, place them on a microwave-safe plate and heat for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through. Be careful not to overheat them, as the bread can get soggy.
• Glaze Timing Advice:If you know you’re going to be storing the subs, consider adding the cheese just before reheating to keep it from getting rubbery during the storage process.

I’ve found that freezing the meatballs and sauce separately from the bread works best. That way, the bread doesn’t get soggy during thawing. When you’re ready to eat, just reheat the meatballs and sauce, and assemble the subs with fresh bread and cheese.

Frequently Asked Questions

Final Thoughts

So there you have it – the ultimate meatball subs recipe that’s guaranteed to become a family favorite. What makes this recipe so special is how easily you can make it your own! Don’t be afraid to experiment with different cheeses, sauces, or toppings to create your perfect meatball sub. This meatball subs recipe is perfect for a casual weeknight dinner, a fun weekend lunch, or a crowd-pleasing game day snack. It’s easy, delicious, and always a hit. If you love this recipe, you might also enjoy my classic spaghetti and meatballs or my homemade pizza recipe. Both are equally comforting and satisfying. Happy cooking, friends! I can’t wait to hear how your meatball subs turn out. Don’t forget to leave a comment and let me know what you think! And if you try any fun variations, be sure to share them with me. Now go get your bake on!