Description

These Italian Meatball Subs are the ultimate comfort food! Juicy homemade meatballs are simmered in a rich marinara sauce, then loaded onto toasted hoagie rolls and topped with gooey melted cheese. Serve these for a fun weeknight dinner or game-day feast!

Ingredients

Units Scale

For the Meatballs:

1 lb ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 large egg
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried)
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
2 tablespoons milk
1 tablespoon olive oil (for frying)

For the Sauce:

1 (24 oz) jar marinara sauce (or homemade)
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

For the Subs:

4 hoagie rolls (or sub rolls)
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons butter, melted
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish

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Instructions

Make the Meatballs:
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, egg, garlic, parsley, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and milk. Mix until just combined—don’t overwork the meat.
- Roll the mixture into 1½-inch meatballs.
Cook the Meatballs:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs and brown them on all sides, about 5 minutes.
- Remove the meatballs and drain excess grease.
Simmer in Sauce:
- Pour marinara sauce into the skillet and stir in Italian seasoning and red pepper flakes. Add the meatballs back to the pan.
- Cover and let simmer for 15-20 minutes, until the meatballs are fully cooked.
Prepare the Rolls:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Slice hoagie rolls open (but not all the way through) and brush the inside with melted butter mixed with garlic powder.
- Toast in the oven for 5 minutes until slightly crispy.
Assemble the Subs:
- Spoon 3-4 meatballs into each toasted hoagie roll.
- Top with shredded mozzarella and a sprinkle of Parmesan.
- Place the subs back in the oven for 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serve & Enjoy:
- Garnish with fresh basil or parsley and serve immediately!

Notes

Use store-bought frozen meatballs for a quick version.
Try adding sautéed onions and peppers for extra flavor.
Serve with a side of fries, chips, or a fresh salad.