Save Meatball Marinara Sub Sandwiches are the ultimate comfort food—imagine tender beef meatballs simmered in a rich, flavorful marinara sauce, all piled high inside toasted rustic rolls. Topped with melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, these sandwiches offer gooey, savory satisfaction in every bite. Perfect for cozy gatherings or a hearty family dinner, they bring a touch of Italian-American warmth and tradition straight to your table.
Save Crafting these sandwiches combines the art of making tender meatballs with the science of simmering a deeply flavored marinara sauce. The melding of these elements creates a mouthwatering experience that feels both nostalgic and fresh. Whether you’re preparing a casual weeknight dinner or hosting a small get-together, these subs invite everyone to dig in and enjoy a delicious, hearty bite.
Ingredients
- For the Meatballs
500 g (1 lb) ground beef, 50 g (1/2 cup) breadcrumbs, 40 g (1/4 cup) grated Parmesan cheese, 1 large egg, 2 cloves garlic (minced), 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley, 1 tsp dried oregano, 1 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp black pepper, 2 tbsp milk - For the Marinara Sauce
2 tbsp olive oil, 1 small onion (finely chopped), 2 cloves garlic (minced), 800 g (28 oz) canned crushed tomatoes, 1 tsp sugar, 1 tsp dried basil, 1/2 tsp dried thyme, 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional), salt and black pepper to taste - For Assembly
4 rustic sub rolls or hoagie rolls (about 20 cm / 8 inches each), 160 g (1 1/2 cups) shredded mozzarella cheese, 40 g (1/4 cup) grated Parmesan cheese, fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- 1. Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- 2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, egg, garlic, parsley, oregano, salt, pepper, and milk. Mix gently until combined—do not overwork.
- 3. Shape the mixture into 16 meatballs (about 3-4 cm each) and arrange them on the prepared baking sheet.
- 4. Bake the meatballs for 18–20 minutes, until browned and cooked through.
- 5. While the meatballs bake, heat olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add onion and cook 3–4 minutes until soft. Add garlic and sauté 1 minute.
- 6. Stir in crushed tomatoes, sugar, basil, thyme, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook uncovered for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- 7. Add the baked meatballs to the sauce. Simmer together for 5–10 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
- 8. Slice each sub roll lengthwise, leaving one side attached. Place on a baking tray and toast in the oven for 3–4 minutes until lightly crisp.
- 9. Spoon 4 meatballs and plenty of marinara sauce into each roll. Top with mozzarella and Parmesan.
- 10. Return subs to the oven for 3–5 minutes, until cheese is melted and bubbly.
- 11. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley, if desired. Serve hot.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
Handle the meatball mixture gently to keep the texture tender and avoid dense meatballs. Toasting the rolls adds a delightful crunch that contrasts the gooey cheese and juicy meatballs. Use fresh herbs when available for a brighter flavor in both the meatballs and sauce.
Varianten und Anpassungen
For extra flavor, try mixing beef with pork in the meatballs. Feel free to add sautéed bell peppers or sliced olives to the marinara sauce for a personalized twist. Gluten-free breadcrumbs and rolls can be substituted to make this dish suitable for gluten-sensitive diets.
Serviervorschläge
These subs pair wonderfully with a simple green salad or roasted vegetables. Serve alongside a glass of Chianti or your favorite Italian red wine to complete the meal with authentic flair.
Save With its hearty meatballs, vibrant marinara, and ooey-gooey cheese, this classic sandwich never fails to impress. Whether for a family meal or a casual gathering, Meatball Marinara Subs bring comfort and joy in every bite.
Recipe FAQs
- → What type of bread works best for the subs?
Rustic sub rolls or hoagie rolls with a crusty exterior and soft interior hold the meatballs and sauce well without becoming soggy.
- → Can I prepare the meatballs ahead of time?
Yes, you can shape and bake the meatballs in advance, then reheat them gently in the marinara sauce before assembling.
- → How do I prevent the rolls from getting soggy?
Toasting the sliced rolls lightly before adding meatballs and sauce creates a barrier that helps maintain a crisp texture.
- → What cheese varieties complement these sandwiches?
Mozzarella provides melty texture while grated Parmesan adds sharpness, but you can also experiment with provolone or fontina.
- → Are there suggestions for variations in the sauce?
Adding sautéed bell peppers, olives, or a pinch of red pepper flakes can enhance the depth and complexity of the marinara.