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+ servings
Lucy Lucy

Classic Italian Meatball Sub Recipe

Sink your teeth into this classic Meatball Sub that’s packed with tender, flavorful meatballs, marinara sauce, and gooey melted cheese. Nestled in a toasted hoagie roll, this comfort food staple is perfect for weeknight dinners, game-day feasts, or whenever you’re craving something hearty and delicious.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course, Sandwiches
Cuisine: Italian-American

Ingredients
  

For the Meatballs:
  • Canola oil for greasing the baking sheet
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 tablespoons water
  • ¼ cup very finely minced yellow onion
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • ¼ cup Panko breadcrumbs
  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 pound ground beef 80% or 85% lean is best
For the Subs:
  • 24 ounces marinara sauce
  • 4 hoagie rolls
  • 4 ounces shredded or sliced Provolone or Mozzarella cheese about 1 cup shredded

Method
 

To Make the Meatballs:
  1. Preheat the oven to 450°F. Grease a rimmed baking sheet with canola oil.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, beat the egg and water lightly with a fork.
  3. Add the minced onion, garlic, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
  4. Fold in the ground beef gently, being careful not to over-mix.
  5. Shape the mixture into 1½-inch meatballs and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
  6. Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through and reach an internal temperature of 160°F.
To Make the Meatball Subs:
  1. In a medium saucepan, combine the baked meatballs and marinara sauce. Cover and heat over medium-low heat for 5–10 minutes until warmed through.
  2. Split the hoagie rolls and place them cut-side up on a baking sheet. Broil for about 2 minutes, or until the edges are lightly toasted.
  3. Add a layer of shredded or sliced cheese to the bottom half of each roll to prevent the bread from becoming soggy.
  4. Use a slotted spoon to place 4 meatballs into each roll. Spoon additional marinara sauce over the meatballs and top with more cheese.
  5. Broil the assembled subs for another 2 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  6. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Notes

  • Meatball Size: Keep meatballs uniform in size for even cooking.
  • Make-Ahead Tip: Prepare and bake the meatballs ahead of time, then store them in the refrigerator or freezer.
  • Customization: Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or fresh basil for extra flavor.
  • Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat the meatballs and sauce separately before assembling the subs.

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