Easy Weeknight Meatball Sub

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe brings the classic meatball sub to your dinner table with ease. The homemade meatballs are flavorful and tender, thanks to a blend of Italian seasoning and breadcrumbs, while the marinara sauce adds rich, savory depth. It’s an ideal meal for weeknights when you want something hearty but don’t want to spend hours cooking. Plus, it’s easy to customize or make ahead, making it both convenient and delicious.

Ingredients

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

Homemade Meatballs

• 1 pound ground beef 95% lean
• ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1 large egg
• 1-2 garlic cloves minced
• 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
• ½ teaspoon salt

Meatball Subs

• 24 meatballs (homemade or frozen)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 8 hot dog buns
• 1 ½ cups mozzarella

Directions

1. Prepare the Meatballs: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, panko breadcrumbs, egg, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, and salt. Mix gently until all ingredients are just combined. Shape the mixture into 24 evenly sized meatballs.
2. Cook the Meatballs: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs and cook until browned on all sides, about 6-8 minutes. Alternatively, bake them in a 400°F oven for 15-20 minutes until cooked through.
3. Simmer in Sauce: Add marinara sauce to the skillet with the meatballs and let them simmer for 10 minutes to absorb the flavors.
4. Assemble the Subs: Preheat your oven to 375°F. Slice the hot dog buns lengthwise but not all the way through. Place 3 meatballs per bun, spoon some marinara sauce over, and sprinkle with mozzarella.
5. Melt the Cheese: Place the assembled subs on a baking sheet and bake for 8-10 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Serve: Remove from the oven and serve hot.

Servings and timing

• Makes 8 meatball subs
• Preparation time: 15 minutes
• Cooking time: 25 minutes
• Total time: 40 minutes

Variations

• Use turkey or chicken ground meat for a lighter version of the meatballs.
• Swap mozzarella for provolone or cheddar cheese for a different flavor profile.
• Add sautéed peppers and onions inside the sub for extra veggies and texture.
• For a spicy kick, add more red pepper flakes or a drizzle of hot sauce before serving.
• Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and buns for a gluten-free version.

storage/reheating

Store any leftover meatball subs wrapped tightly in aluminum foil or in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm in a 350°F oven for about 10-15 minutes until heated through and the cheese is melted again. You can also microwave leftovers, but the bread may become soggy.

FAQs

How do I make the meatballs ahead of time?

You can prepare the meatballs and store them uncooked in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours or freeze them raw for up to 3 months. Cook directly from frozen by adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Can I use frozen meatballs for this recipe?

Yes, frozen meatballs work well. Simply thaw them slightly and follow the steps for simmering in marinara sauce and assembling the subs.

What type of bread works best for meatball subs?

Classic hot dog buns or hoagie rolls work best as they are soft but sturdy enough to hold the meatballs and sauce.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes, substitute meatballs with vegetarian or plant-based meatballs, and use your favorite marinara and cheese alternatives.

How spicy is this recipe?

The recipe has a mild heat from the red pepper flakes, which can be adjusted to your taste.

Can I prepare the meatballs in advance and reheat later?

Absolutely. Cook the meatballs, store them in the sauce in the refrigerator, and reheat when ready to assemble.

What cheese alternatives can I use?

Provolone, cheddar, or even a vegan cheese can be substituted based on preference.

Can I freeze assembled subs?

It’s best to freeze meatballs separately and assemble fresh to maintain bread texture. However, you can freeze assembled subs wrapped tightly and thaw before reheating.

How can I make the meatballs more tender?

Avoid over-mixing the meat mixture, and add a little milk or grated onion to add moisture and tenderness.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Yes, it’s a classic favorite among kids and adults alike. You can reduce spices for milder flavor if preferred.

Conclusion

This Easy Weeknight Meatball Sub recipe delivers a comforting, flavorful meal that’s perfect for busy evenings. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can enjoy a homemade sub that rivals any deli classic. Whether you make the meatballs from scratch or use frozen ones, the end result is always delicious and satisfying. Try it tonight for a quick, crowd-pleasing dinner!

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