Description
This quick and cozy meatball sub recipe is perfect for busy nights—loaded with juicy meatballs, melty mozzarella, and rich marinara on a toasted bun.
Ingredients
Homemade Meatballs
1 pound ground beef (95% lean)
½ cup panko breadcrumbs
1 large egg
1–2 garlic cloves, minced
1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
½ teaspoon salt
Meatball Subs
24 meatballs (homemade or frozen)
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 cups marinara sauce
8 hot dog buns
1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions
If Making Homemade Meatballs:
In a large bowl, mix ground beef, panko, egg, garlic, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, and salt. Form into 24 meatballs.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high. Once shimmering, add meatballs and brown on all sides.
Lower heat to low and slowly pour in marinara sauce. Cover with a lid, raise heat to medium-low, and simmer for 15 minutes or until internal temp reaches 160°F.
If Using Frozen Meatballs:
Heat marinara in a large skillet over medium heat. Once simmering, add frozen meatballs.
Cover and cook over medium-low for about 25 minutes until warmed through.
Assemble Meatball Subs:
While meatballs are cooking, place buns on a baking sheet and adjust oven rack to 6 inches below broiler.
Preheat broiler. Add 3 meatballs to each bun, top with marinara and mozzarella.
Broil for 2–3 minutes until cheese is melted—watch carefully to avoid burning the buns.
Notes
Frozen meatballs make this recipe even faster—just be sure they’re fully heated through.
Add fresh basil, parmesan, or red pepper flakes as extra toppings if desired.
Use hoagie rolls or sub buns for a heartier sandwich.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes (if making meatballs)
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop + Broiler
- Cuisine: American / Italian-American
