“`html
If you’re craving a hearty, comforting sandwich that deliciously satisfies your hunger, this Baked Meatball Subs Recipe is an absolute winner. Juicy, perfectly seasoned meatballs baked to tender perfection and smothered in rich pasta sauce, nestled inside toasty sub rolls, and topped with melty mozzarella cheese—this meal brings all the cozy flavors you want with an easy, homey vibe. Whether it’s for a family dinner or a weekend treat, these subs deliver that satisfying hug of flavor with every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward but genuinely essential to crafting the perfect Baked Meatball Subs Recipe. Each one plays a key role—from the robust, juicy meatballs to the gooey melted mozzarella, every element contributes delicious depth, texture, and color to the final dish.
- Lean ground beef: The rich base for juicy, tender meatballs that hold their shape while baking.
- Egg: Acts as a binder to keep the meatballs from falling apart during cooking.
- Italian seasoned bread crumbs: Adds texture and a subtle herb-infused flavor to the meatballs.
- Onion powder: Boosts the savory notes without overpowering the meat’s natural taste.
- Garlic powder: Brings a gentle warmth and depth that’s classic in Italian cooking.
- Italian seasoning: Infuses the meatballs with that unmistakable aroma and bright flavor of Mediterranean herbs.
- Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning to enhance every other ingredient.
- Pasta sauce: Coats the meatballs with a tangy, comforting tomato richness that ties everything together.
- Sub rolls: The sturdy yet soft bread that cradles the meatballs and sauce perfectly.
- Shredded mozzarella: Melts into a luscious, stretchy topping that makes these subs irresistible.
- Chopped fresh parsley: A fresh sprinkle of green to brighten each sandwich and add a bit of color and flavor contrast.
How to Make Baked Meatball Subs Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Meatball Mixture
Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. In a large bowl, combine the lean ground beef, egg, Italian seasoned bread crumbs, onion powder, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. The simplest way to mix everything evenly is with your hands—yes, get in there! This ensures the seasoning is well distributed while keeping the mixture light enough for juicy meatballs.
Step 2: Shape the Meatballs
Using a cookie scoop helps keep your meatballs uniform in size, which makes baking easier and ensures they cook evenly. Scoop the mixture, then roll each ball gently between your palms until smooth but not compacted. Place all the meatballs on a parchment-lined baking sheet, giving them a little space so the heat can circulate.
Step 3: Bake Until Tender and Juicy
Slide the tray into your preheated oven and bake for about 20 minutes. This careful timing cooks the meatballs through without drying them out. The result? Tender, juicy meatballs with a perfect crust on the outside that’s begging to be dunked in sauce.
Step 4: Coat Meatballs in Warm Pasta Sauce
While the meatballs bake, gently warm your pasta sauce in a large skillet. As soon as the meatballs come out of the oven, add them to the skillet and stir gently so each meatball is coated in that rich, tangy sauce. This step not only keeps the meatballs moist but also infuses them with additional layers of flavor.
Step 5: Assemble the Subs
In a baking dish, arrange your sub rolls open-faced and fill each one with 3 to 5 meatballs, depending on their size. Make sure to spoon over some of the saucy goodness too. Then heap a generous amount of shredded mozzarella cheese on top, creating that irresistible blanket of melty goodness.
Step 6: Broil to Perfect Melty Cheese
Pop your assembled subs under the broiler for 2 to 3 minutes, watching closely until the cheese melts into a bubbly, golden topping. Be careful not to let it burn—this is where the sandwich gains that beautiful, appetizing finish. When done, sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley for a pop of green and freshness.
How to Serve Baked Meatball Subs Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley isn’t just for looks—it adds a subtle herbaceous note that cuts through the richness of the meat and cheese. You can also add a pinch of red pepper flakes if you enjoy a little heat or a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil for some silky richness.
Side Dishes
Keep it classic with crispy fries or a simple side salad dressed with balsamic vinaigrette for brightness. Roasted vegetables or garlic Parmesan potato wedges also pair wonderfully, complementing the subs without overwhelming the bold flavors inside.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the meatball subs deconstructed on a platter—meatballs in sauce, toasted bread slices, and bowls of shredded cheese and herbs allow everyone to build their perfect sandwich. You could also turn smaller subs into sliders for a party appetizer or cut them in halves for sharing family-style at the table.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any leftover meatball subs should be wrapped tightly or stored in an airtight container in the fridge. They stay fresh for up to 3 days, making them perfect for quick lunches or second-day dinners when you want something comforting with zero fuss.
Freezing
If you want to save some for later, you can freeze the meatballs separately in sauce for up to 3 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat before assembling. Freezing fully assembled subs with cheese isn’t ideal, as bread texture can suffer, so it’s best to freeze the components separately.
Reheating
Reheat meatballs in sauce gently on the stove or in the microwave, so they stay tender and moist. Toast your sub rolls separately or quickly broil them with cheese again for that freshly made feeling. This way, your leftovers taste almost as good as when you first made them.
FAQs
Can I use other types of meat for the meatballs?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be a leaner alternative, though they may be a bit less juicy. Adding a bit of olive oil or grated cheese can help keep them moist.
Is it necessary to use Italian seasoned bread crumbs?
While Italian seasoned bread crumbs add extra flavor, you can use plain bread crumbs and simply increase the Italian seasoning in your mix to achieve the same taste.
How spicy is this Baked Meatball Subs Recipe?
As written, this recipe is mild and kid-friendly. To add a kick, sprinkle red pepper flakes into the meatball mixture or the pasta sauce before heating.
Can I prepare the meatballs ahead of time?
Yes! You can form the meatballs up to a day ahead and keep them covered in the fridge. This makes your mealtime even quicker and reduces prep stress.
What’s the best type of sub roll to use?
Look for fresh, sturdy sub rolls with a soft inside but enough structure to hold all the fillings without getting soggy. Italian or hoagie rolls work wonderfully here.
Final Thoughts
There’s just something so comforting about the classic Baked Meatball Subs Recipe that makes it a forever favorite in my kitchen. It’s simple yet full of heartwarming flavor, perfect for any occasion when you want a filling meal that feels homemade and special. I hope you give this recipe a try and enjoy the warm smiles it’s sure to bring around your table.
“`
Print
Baked Meatball Subs Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 5 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
These Baked Meatball Subs feature juicy homemade beef meatballs baked to perfection, simmered in flavorful pasta sauce, and topped with gooey melted mozzarella cheese on fresh sub rolls. Perfect for a hearty and comforting meal that your family will love.
Ingredients
Meatballs
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 1 egg
- 1/2 cup Italian seasoned bread crumbs
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Sauce and Assembly
- 2 cups pasta sauce
- 5 sub rolls
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat and Mix Meatball Ingredients: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, egg, Italian seasoned bread crumbs, onion powder, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mixing with your hands works best to evenly incorporate all ingredients.
- Form Meatballs: Use a cookie scoop to portion the meat mixture, then roll each portion into a ball with your hands. Place the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- Bake Meatballs: Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven at 350°F for 20 minutes or until cooked through and no longer pink inside.
- Heat Pasta Sauce: While the meatballs are baking, pour the pasta sauce into a large skillet and heat it until warm and simmering.
- Coat Meatballs in Sauce: Once the meatballs are out of the oven, add them to the skillet with the heated pasta sauce and gently stir to coat each meatball thoroughly.
- Assemble Subs: In a baking dish, line the sub rolls and fill each roll with 3 to 5 meatballs depending on their size. Top the filled rolls generously with shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Melt Cheese under Broiler: Place the baking dish under the oven broiler for 2 to 3 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly browned. Watch carefully to prevent burning.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from the broiler and sprinkle fresh chopped parsley over the subs for a bright, fresh finish. Serve immediately.
Notes
- Using lean ground beef helps reduce excess fat while keeping meatballs juicy.
- Italian seasoned bread crumbs add extra flavor but plain bread crumbs with Italian herbs can be used as a substitute.
- Broil cheese just until bubbly to avoid burning it.
- Meatballs can be made ahead of time and reheated in the sauce for convenience.
- Substitute mozzarella with provolone or cheddar for a different cheesy twist.
- Adjust the number of meatballs per sub based on size and appetite.
