Description
Easy Meatball Subs are the ultimate comfort food sandwich—juicy meatballs simmered in marinara, tucked into toasted buns, and topped with melted mozzarella. Perfect for cozy weeknights, this family-friendly dinner is quick, hearty, and flexible with homemade or frozen meatballs.
Ingredients
For Homemade Meatballs (optional):
-
1 lb (450 g) ground beef, 95% lean
-
½ cup (30 g) panko breadcrumbs
-
1 large egg (50 g)
-
1–2 garlic cloves, minced (5–10 g)
-
1 Tbsp (6 g) Italian seasoning
-
½ tsp (1 g) red pepper flakes
-
½ tsp (3 g) salt
For the Subs:
-
24 meatballs (homemade or frozen)
-
2 Tbsp (30 ml) olive oil
-
2 cups (480 ml) marinara sauce
-
8 hot dog buns
-
1½ cups (150 g) shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions
-
Make meatballs (optional): Mix beef, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic, seasoning, red pepper flakes, and salt. Roll into 24 meatballs.
-
Brown meatballs: Heat olive oil in skillet, brown meatballs on all sides.
-
Simmer: Add marinara, cover, and simmer 15 minutes until meatballs reach 160°F.
-
For frozen: simmer in sauce 25 minutes until heated through.
-
-
Prep buns: Place buns on a baking sheet under the broiler.
-
Assemble subs: Add 3 meatballs per bun, spoon sauce, and top with mozzarella.
-
Broil & serve: Broil 2–3 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly. Serve hot.
Notes
Avoid overmixing meatball mixture—keeps them tender.
Toast buns lightly to prevent sogginess.
Frozen meatballs are a great shortcut.
Add hidden veggies (like grated zucchini or carrots) for picky eaters.
Watch carefully under the broiler—cheese burns fast.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Sandwiches / Main Course
- Method: Stovetop + Broiler
- Cuisine: American-Italian