Meatball Subs with Marinara and Mozzarella

Meatball subs with marinara and mozzarella always take me back to the first football game party I hosted at home when I wanted something cheesy, hearty, and totally crowd pleasing so I decided to make big juicy meatballs, simmer them in a rich marinara sauce, and pile them into warm rolls with loads of melted mozzarella and when I brought them out everyone immediately gathered around and the sandwiches disappeared faster than I could blink because they were warm, saucy, and just messy enough to make everyone smile.

Ever since that day these meatball subs with marinara and mozzarella have become my favorite go-to for game days, movie nights, or any gathering where I want people to feel cozy and happy and I love how the gooey cheese stretches with every bite and the flavorful meatballs soak up that tangy sauce and the fresh herbs on top add a pop of brightness that ties it all together so perfectly.

Ingredients

• Here’s what I use for this recipe. You can always make substitutions if you prefer!
• Ground beef – Creates juicy, flavorful meatballs that hold together well.
• Breadcrumbs – Help bind the meatballs and give them a tender texture.
• Parmesan cheese – Adds a nutty, savory depth to the meatballs.
• Egg – Binds everything together so the meatballs stay intact.
• Garlic – Brings a bold aromatic flavor to the meatballs.
• Fresh parsley – Adds freshness and a touch of color inside and on top.
• Salt – Essential for seasoning the meat mixture.
• Black pepper – Gives the meatballs a gentle kick.
• Marinara sauce – The tangy, savory sauce that makes the subs irresistible.
• Mozzarella cheese – Melts into gooey perfection on top of the meatballs.
• Sub rolls – Soft but sturdy enough to hold all the saucy goodness.
• Olive oil – Helps brown the meatballs for extra flavor.

Tools You’ll Need

• Mixing bowl – To combine the meatball mixture easily.
• Baking sheet – For browning or baking the meatballs evenly.
• Skillet or saucepan – To simmer the meatballs in marinara sauce.
• Spoon – For shaping and scooping the meatballs.
• Knife – For chopping the garlic and parsley.
• Cutting board – Keeps everything organized during prep.
• Oven – To melt the cheese and toast the subs perfectly.

Instructions

Step 1

I start by preheating the oven to 400°F so it’s ready for the final melt and toast.

Step 2

In a large bowl I mix together the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, egg, garlic, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper until everything is well combined.

Step 3

I shape the mixture into meatballs about the size of a golf ball and place them on a baking sheet drizzled with olive oil.

Step 4

I bake the meatballs for about 15-20 minutes or until they’re browned and cooked through.

Step 5

While the meatballs are baking I heat marinara sauce in a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat.

Step 6

Once the meatballs are cooked I transfer them into the skillet with marinara sauce and let them simmer for about 10 minutes so they soak up all that delicious flavor.

Step 7

I place the sub rolls on a baking sheet and fill each one with a few meatballs and plenty of sauce.

Step 8

Then I top each sub generously with mozzarella cheese and place them in the oven for about 5-7 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 9

Finally I sprinkle chopped parsley on top before serving to add a fresh finishing touch.

Tips

If you like extra heat I recommend adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinara sauce. I also sometimes add a layer of provolone cheese for an extra cheesy kick. And if you want to make these ahead, you can prepare the meatballs and sauce in advance and just assemble and bake when ready to serve!

Ways to Serve

I love serving meatball subs with marinara and mozzarella alongside a crisp green salad or some crunchy potato chips for a classic casual combo. They also work great with roasted veggies or a simple coleslaw for a more balanced plate and they’re perfect for feeding a hungry crowd on game day!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make meatball subs with marinara and mozzarella ahead of time?

Yes! You can prep the meatballs and sauce ahead and assemble when ready to serve.

Can I freeze meatball subs with marinara and mozzarella?

You can freeze the meatballs and sauce separately then thaw and assemble fresh.

What other cheeses can I use in meatball subs with marinara and mozzarella?

Provolone, cheddar, or even a mix of Italian cheeses work wonderfully.

See You in the Kitchen

I hope you give these meatball subs with marinara and mozzarella a try! They’re the ultimate comfort food sandwich and I can’t wait to hear how yours turn out. Share your photos and let me know if you added your own special twist!

Happy Cooking!

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