Is there anything better than a toasty, hot, messy meatball sub sandwich? A great meatball sub sandwich begins with great meatballs of course! And while we’ve made more than our share of meatballs in our lives, our love for meatballs began right here. With classic Italian Meatballs, seasoned perfectly and mixed with a light hand. Then, take those tender juicy meatballs and simmer them in tomato sauce (this can be Homemade Marinara Sauce, or store bought), stuff them into garlicky hoagie rolls, top with mozzarella cheese, and broil to melty perfection. This cozy comfort meal is one we especially love to serve when we’ve got a crowd to feed. If you can make homemade meatballs (and you can, they’re easy) this sub sandwich recipe will be a breeze. For more of our go-to meatball ideas, check out all our favorite Meatball Recipes!
Italian Meatball Ingredients
Nothing unexpected here—just 100% classic meatball ingredients, and zero nonsense. In addition to the usual salt and pepper, here’s what you’ll need to make meatballs for your meatball sub:
- The meat mixture: Ground beef (we like the richness of a classic 80/20 blend), and ground mild Italian sausage. You could do all beef, if you prefer.
- Seasonings: Fresh garlic and parsley are all these simple meatballs need.
- Italian-style breadcrumbs: These are the kind that come with herbs like parsley and oregano mixed into them.
- Egg: The egg and breadcrumbs work together to help the meatballs hold their shape.
- Parmesan cheese: Because it’s salty and full of umami. And Italian!
Tips for The Best Meatball Subs
- Mix the meat with your hands: To have meatballs that are moist and juicy, you must mix the meat by hand. Why? Because if you overmix the meatball mixture it can get tough.
- Keep a little bowl of water next to you as you roll. Why? Keeping your hands damp will help keep the meat mixture from sticking to your hand as you roll the meatballs.
- Roll the meatballs with a light touch. Keep that tenderness going even when you measure and roll the meatballs.
- Shred the mozzarella yourself (annoying, we know) because it will melt better than pre-shredded mozzarella cheese. The grating attachment for your food processor makes it pretty easy to do!
- You could make the meatballs ahead of time and freeze them to have meatball subs (or heck, even Spaghetti and Meatballs) nearly anytime the craving strikes! Simply spread uncooked meatballs on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Place in the freezer for an hour, then transfer the frozen meatballs to a freezer bag. Label, and store them for up to 3 months.
How To Make Meatball Subs
- Make the meatballs. Get the kids to help roll! It’s fun and really easy—especially if you’re not a stickler for a perfectly formed meatball.
- Cook the meatballs! Simmer the meatballs in tomato sauce for about 20 minutes.
- Prep the submarine rolls with a little brush of olive oil and a sprinkle of garlic powder.
- Assemble the meatball subs! Those saucy homemade meatballs go right into the garlicky buns. About 4 meatballs should fit into each roll.
- It’s cheese time! Top with mozzarella, and broil until the cheese is melty.
What To Serve With Meatball Subs
Is a meatball sandwich a meal that needs sides? Well, in fairness, it could use some veggies, or a big salad. Try serving it with:
More Hot & Toasty Sandwiches
Meatballs & More!
For more recipe inspiration, follow us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and Pinterest or order our cookbook. We love when you share your meals. Tag us on Instagram using #themodernproper, and we’d love to hear what you think of this recipe in the comments below. Happy cooking!
