Why Make This Recipe
Cheesy Meatball Subs are a fantastic choice for a cozy meal that everyone will love. They are hearty, filling, and packed with flavors. Combining juicy meatballs, rich marinara sauce, and gooey melted cheese, this recipe is perfect for family dinners, game day, or any casual gathering. Plus, they are relatively easy and quick to make!
How to Make Cheesy Meatball Subs
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 4 hoagie rolls
- Olive oil for toasting
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Form mixture into meatballs, about 1-1.5 inches in diameter.
- Heat a skillet over medium heat and brown meatballs on all sides.
- Once browned, add marinara sauce to the skillet and let simmer for 10 minutes.
- In a separate baking dish, split open the hoagie rolls and place meatballs inside each roll.
- Spoon extra marinara sauce over the meatballs and top with shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Drizzle with olive oil and bake in the oven for 10-15 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve warm.
How to Serve Cheesy Meatball Subs
Cheesy Meatball Subs are best served right out of the oven while the cheese is hot and gooey. You can enjoy them on their own or with a side of chips, a simple salad, or some crispy vegetables. Don’t forget to offer extra marinara sauce for dipping!
How to Store Cheesy Meatball Subs
If you have leftovers, let the subs cool completely, then wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or foil. You can store them in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, place them in an oven or toaster oven to regain that crispy texture.
Tips to Make Cheesy Meatball Subs
- Make sure to season the meat mixture well for the best flavor.
- Use fresh garlic for a stronger taste.
- If you want a little heat, add red pepper flakes to the meatballs or marinara sauce.
- Feel free to customize the cheese. Provolone or cheddar can also be delicious on these subs.
Variation
You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version of these subs. For a vegetarian option, try using plant-based meat or make meatballs from lentils, beans, or chickpeas.
FAQs
Can I freeze Cheesy Meatball Subs?
Yes! You can freeze the meatballs before cooking or after they are assembled. Just make sure to wrap them well in freezer-safe material.
How can I make the meatballs ahead of time?
You can prepare the meatballs and even cook them in advance. Just store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before assembling the subs.
What if I don’t have hoagie rolls?
You can use any type of bread, such as sub rolls, baguettes, or even hamburger buns. The key is to make sure the bread can hold the meatballs and sauce.
Cheesy Meatball Subs
Ingredients
For the Meatballs
- 1 lb ground beef Use lean ground beef for a healthier option.
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs Use Italian-style breadcrumbs for extra flavor.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese Freshly grated Parmesan enhances flavor.
- 1 each egg Acts as a binder for the meatballs.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced Use fresh garlic for the best taste.
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning Can also add red pepper flakes for heat.
- to taste Salt and pepper Make sure to season well.
For the Assembly
- 2 cups marinara sauce Choose your favorite store-bought or homemade sauce.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese Can be substituted with Provolone or Cheddar.
- 4 each hoagie rolls Any sturdy bread can be used.
- to taste Olive oil For toasting the rolls.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Form mixture into meatballs, about 1-1.5 inches in diameter.
Cooking
- Heat a skillet over medium heat and brown meatballs on all sides.
- Once browned, add marinara sauce to the skillet and let simmer for 10 minutes.
Assembly
- In a separate baking dish, split open the hoagie rolls and place meatballs inside each roll.
- Spoon extra marinara sauce over the meatballs and top with shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Drizzle with olive oil and bake in the oven for 10-15 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve warm.