Introduction

The Classic Meatball Sub with Marinara and Mozzarella is a hearty, comforting sandwich that combines juicy homemade meatballs, rich tomato marinara sauce, and melted mozzarella cheese tucked inside a soft, fresh sub roll. This sandwich has roots in Italian-American cuisine and is a staple of casual dining, game-day snacks, and family dinners.

It’s the ultimate comfort food: each bite delivers a perfect balance of savory meat, tangy tomato, and gooey cheese, all wrapped in a slightly toasted roll. Making these subs at home allows you to control seasoning, meat quality, and sauce flavor, ensuring every sub is bursting with taste and freshness.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s both nostalgic and indulgent. The warm, cheesy meatballs wrapped in soft bread remind me of cozy family dinners and childhood favorites. Making it at home elevates the experience with fresh ingredients, a perfectly seasoned meatball, and rich homemade marinara sauce. Every bite is satisfying and flavorful, perfect for anyone who loves hearty sandwiches with a comforting, homemade touch.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

• Comforting and filling: A classic that satisfies both kids and adults.
• Customizable: Adjust meatball seasoning, cheese, or sauce to taste.
• Perfect for any occasion: Game days, casual dinners, or meal prep.
• Crowd-pleaser: Everyone loves a hearty meatball sub.
• Fresh and homemade: More flavorful than store-bought or fast-food versions.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 25–30 minutes
• Total Time: 45–50 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Calories: ~550 per sub

Course & Cuisine

• Course: Main course / Sandwich
• Cuisine: Italian-American

Ingredients

For the Meatballs:

• 1 lb ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
• ½ cup breadcrumbs
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 large egg
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (oregano, basil, thyme)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

For the Marinara Sauce:

• 2 cups tomato sauce (or marinara sauce)
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• ½ teaspoon dried oregano
• ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1 teaspoon olive oil

For the Subs:

• 4 sub rolls (6–8 inch)
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• Optional: extra grated Parmesan for topping

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

Step 1: Make the Meatballs

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground meat, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, egg, garlic, Italian herbs, parsley, salt, and pepper.
3. Mix until just combined; avoid over-mixing for tender meatballs.
4. Shape mixture into 12–16 meatballs, about 1.5 inches in diameter.

Step 2: Bake the Meatballs

1. Place meatballs on a lined baking sheet.
2. Bake for 15–20 minutes until browned and cooked through.

Step 3: Prepare the Marinara Sauce

1. While meatballs bake, heat olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add garlic and sauté 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Add tomato sauce, oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper.
4. Simmer for 5–10 minutes until slightly thickened.

Step 4: Combine Meatballs and Sauce

• Add baked meatballs to the simmering marinara sauce and coat evenly.

Step 5: Assemble the Subs

1. Preheat the broiler (or oven to 375°F/190°C).
2. Slice sub rolls open without cutting all the way through.
3. Place 3–4 meatballs per roll, spooning sauce over them.
4. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella generously on top.
5. Place assembled subs under the broiler for 2–4 minutes until cheese melts and bubbles.

How to Serve

• Serve hot immediately with extra Parmesan or fresh parsley sprinkled on top.
• Pair with a simple salad, fries, or roasted vegetables.
• Great for casual family dinners, game days, or lunch gatherings.

Recipe Tips

• For juicier meatballs, use a mix of beef and pork.
• Don’t overmix the meat mixture to keep meatballs tender.
• Toast rolls lightly before assembling for extra crunch and structure.
• Keep meatballs warm in the sauce while preparing subs if cooking in batches.
• Use fresh mozzarella slices for creamier texture.

Variations

• Spicy Meatball Subs: Add crushed red pepper or chopped jalapeños to the meatballs or sauce.
• Cheese Lovers’ Sub: Add provolone or fontina along with mozzarella.
• Italian-Style: Add sautéed onions and bell peppers to the sauce.
• Mini Subs/Sliders: Make smaller meatballs and rolls for appetizer portions.
• Vegetarian Version: Use plant-based meatballs or lentil “meatballs” with marinara and cheese.

Freezing and Storage

• Unassembled Meatballs: Freeze cooked meatballs in sauce for up to 3 months.
• Unassembled Subs: Assemble and bake just before serving; bread can become soggy if stored pre-assembled.
• Reheating: Reheat meatballs and sauce in a saucepan, then assemble subs and melt cheese.

Special Equipment Needed

• Baking sheet
• Mixing bowls
• Saucepan
• Oven or broiler
• Wooden spoon or spatula

FAQ

Q1: Can I make meatballs ahead of time?
Yes, bake and store meatballs in sauce in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat before assembling.

Q2: Can I use frozen meatballs?
Yes, thaw or heat frozen meatballs in sauce before adding to subs.

Q3: Can I use a different type of cheese?
Mozzarella is classic, but provolone, cheddar, or fontina work well.

Q4: Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes, use gluten-free breadcrumbs and sub rolls.

Q5: How can I make it extra flavorful?
Add sautéed onions, garlic, or fresh basil to the sauce; season meatballs generously.

Conclusion

Classic Meatball Subs with Marinara and Mozzarella are hearty, comforting, and irresistibly delicious. Perfect for family dinners, casual gatherings, or game days, these subs are easy to customize while delivering bold flavors in every bite.

Homemade meatballs, rich marinara, and melted mozzarella create a nostalgic and satisfying meal that will become a family favorite for years to come.