BEST Cheesy Meatball Subs EVER
These Cheesy Meatball Subs are the ultimate comfort food. Juicy, flavorful meatballs simmered in a rich marinara sauce, piled high on toasted rolls, and smothered in melted mozzarella cheese – a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that's surprisingly easy to make.
Equipment
- Large bowl
- Cookie scoop or hands
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Baking Sheet
- Slotted spoon
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Oven
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef 80/20 blend
- ½ pound ground pork
- 1 cup breadcrumbs panko or Italian-seasoned
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
- ¼ cup milk
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon dried basil
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes optional
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- ½ onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon dried basil
- ¼ teaspoon sugar
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 6-8 sub rolls hoagie rolls or Italian rolls
- 8 ounces mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- Optional: fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions
- In a large bowl, gently combine the ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, milk, minced garlic, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Be careful not to overmix.
- Using your hands or a cookie scoop, form the mixture into 1-inch meatballs.
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Pour in the crushed tomatoes and tomato sauce. Stir in the oregano, basil, sugar, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
- Gently drop the meatballs into the simmering sauce. Make sure they are mostly submerged.
- Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for at least 30 minutes, or up to an hour, stirring occasionally.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Slice the sub rolls lengthwise, being careful not to cut all the way through.
- Brush the inside of each roll with melted butter.
- Place the rolls on a baking sheet and toast in the preheated oven for 5-7 minutes, or until lightly golden brown.
- Remove the toasted rolls from the oven.
- Using a slotted spoon, transfer 3-4 meatballs onto each roll.
- Spoon a generous amount of marinara sauce over the meatballs.
- Top with shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Return the loaded subs to the oven and bake for 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Optional: Broil the subs for the last minute or two, watching carefully to prevent burning.
- Garnish with fresh basil leaves, if desired.
Notes
Feel free to experiment with different cheeses in the meatball mixture. A little Pecorino Romano or Asiago can add a fantastic salty tang. You could even add some finely chopped veggies like onions, carrots, or zucchini for extra nutrients. If you're short on time, you can use a good-quality store-bought marinara sauce. Mozzarella is a classic choice, but don't be afraid to branch out! Provolone, Monterey Jack, or even a blend of Italian cheeses would be delicious. You can make the meatballs and sauce ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.