Italian Meatball Subs are the ultimate comfort food, featuring juicy, flavorful meatballs smothered in marinara sauce and melted cheese, all nestled in a toasted sub roll. This classic sandwich is perfect for a hearty lunch or a satisfying dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Packed with rich Italian flavors
Easy to make with simple ingredients
Perfect for feeding a crowd
Great for meal prep and leftovers
Customizable with different cheeses and toppings

Ingredients

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

Ground beef
Ground pork
Breadcrumbs
Parmesan cheese
Egg
Garlic
Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper
Marinara sauce
Mozzarella cheese
Sub rolls
Olive oil
Fresh basil (optional for garnish)

Directions

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, combine ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
Roll the mixture into 1-inch meatballs and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until fully cooked.
While the meatballs cook, warm the marinara sauce in a large saucepan over medium heat.
Once the meatballs are done, transfer them to the saucepan and coat them with marinara sauce.
Cut sub rolls in half and lightly toast them with a drizzle of olive oil.
Place meatballs in the toasted rolls, spoon extra sauce over the top, and sprinkle with mozzarella cheese.
Broil for 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Garnish with fresh basil if desired and serve hot.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4-6
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes

Variations

Spicy Kick: Add crushed red pepper flakes to the meatball mixture.
Cheese Lovers: Use a blend of mozzarella, provolone, and Parmesan.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and sub rolls.
Turkey Meatballs: Swap beef and pork for ground turkey for a lighter version.
Veggie Option: Use plant-based meat alternatives and dairy-free cheese.

Storage/Reheating

Refrigeration: Store leftover meatballs in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezing: Freeze meatballs (without bread) for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: Warm meatballs in marinara sauce on the stovetop over low heat or microwave until heated through.

FAQs

Can I make the meatballs ahead of time?

Yes! Cook the meatballs in advance and store them in the fridge or freezer until ready to assemble.

What type of bread works best for subs?

Soft yet sturdy sub rolls, hoagie rolls, or baguettes work great.

Can I use store-bought meatballs?

Absolutely! Pre-made meatballs can save time and still taste delicious.

What other cheeses can I use?

Provolone, cheddar, or a cheese blend can be great alternatives to mozzarella.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes! Cook meatballs in marinara sauce on low for 4-6 hours, then assemble the subs.

How do I keep the bread from getting soggy?

Toasting the rolls and adding a layer of cheese before the meatballs helps prevent sogginess.

What can I serve with meatball subs?

A side salad, fries, or garlic bread make great accompaniments.

Can I use ground chicken instead of beef and pork?

Yes, ground chicken works well but may require extra seasoning for flavor.

How do I make mini meatball subs for a party?

Use slider rolls and smaller meatballs for bite-sized versions.

Are these meatballs good for pasta too?

Yes! The meatballs and sauce pair perfectly with spaghetti or any pasta of choice.

Conclusion

Italian Meatball Subs are a deliciously satisfying meal that’s easy to prepare and always a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re making them for a family dinner, game day, or meal prep, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Try them today and enjoy a bite of Italian comfort food!