The Ultimate Meatball Sub Sandwich

BY

January 18, 2026

The Ultimate Meatball Sub Sandwich with marinara and melted cheese

There’s nothing quite like biting into The Ultimate Meatball Sub Sandwich a warm, crusty roll overflowing with tender, saucy meatballs and melty cheese. This sandwich is hearty, flavorful, and easy to make at home with just a few pantry staples.

Why You’ll Love This Meatball Sub Sandwich Recipe

  • Soft, juicy meatballs simmered in a rich tomato sauce.
  • Perfectly toasted bread that holds everything together.
  • Melted provolone and mozzarella for that irresistible stretch.
  • Ready in under an hour weeknight comfort food made easy.
  • Family-approved and freezer-friendly.

Preparation and Cooking Time

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Total Time: 50 minutes

Ingredients Meatball Sub Sandwich

  • 1 lb ground beef (or half beef, half pork)
  • ½ cup breadcrumbs
  • 1 egg
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • 2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
  • 4 hoagie rolls or French rolls
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 4 slices provolone cheese
  • Fresh basil (optional)

Optional Swaps: Use turkey for lighter meatballs or gluten-free breadcrumbs if needed.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Mix the meatballs: Combine ground meat, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan, garlic, and seasonings in a large bowl.
  2. Shape and cook: Form 12 meatballs and brown them in a skillet over medium heat until golden.
  3. Simmer in sauce: Pour in marinara sauce and simmer for 20 minutes until cooked through.
  4. Prepare the rolls: Slice rolls and lightly toast them under the broiler for 1–2 minutes.
  5. Assemble: Place three meatballs per roll, spoon sauce on top, add provolone and mozzarella.
  6. Melt and serve: Broil again for 2 minutes until cheese bubbles and melts.
  7. Garnish: Sprinkle with fresh basil for a beautiful finish.

Serving Suggestions Meatball Sub Sandwich

Serve The Ultimate Meatball Sub Sandwich with:

  • A crisp green salad or coleslaw.
  • Sweet potato fries or garlic chips.
  • A cold soda or glass of iced tea.

Quick Tips or Variations

  • Spicy Kick: Add crushed red pepper to the sauce.
  • Cheesy Upgrade: Use smoked provolone for extra flavor.
  • Make-Ahead: Cook meatballs ahead and freeze for busy nights.

FAQs Meatball Sub Sandwich

Q1: What do you put on a meatball sub?
A classic sub includes meatballs, marinara sauce, and melted cheese simple and delicious.

Q2: What cheese goes best on a meatball sub?
Provolone and mozzarella are top picks for their mild flavor and perfect melt.

Q3: What kind of bread should I use for a meatball sandwich?
Sturdy rolls like hoagie or French rolls hold up best without getting soggy.

Q4: How do you keep meatball subs from getting soggy?
Lightly toast the bread and drain excess sauce before assembling.

Conclusion

The Ultimate Meatball Sub Sandwich brings together rich flavors and satisfying textures in one irresistible meal. Perfect for family dinners, game days, or anytime you crave something cozy and indulgent. For more recipes check Kitenfood and kitenrecipes.

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The Ultimate Meatball Sub Sandwich with marinara and melted cheese

The Ultimate Meatball Sub Sandwich


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  • Author: Laura Jennings
  • Total Time: 50 mins
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Description

A saucy, cheesy, flavor-packed sandwich that turns classic meatballs into the ultimate comfort meal.


Ingredients

Scale

1 lb ground beef (or mix with pork)

½ cup breadcrumbs

1 egg

2 cloves garlic, minced

½ cup Parmesan cheese

1 tsp salt

½ tsp black pepper

1 tsp Italian seasoning

2 cups marinara sauce

4 hoagie or French rolls

1 cup shredded mozzarella

4 slices provolone

Fresh basil (optional)


Instructions

1. Mix beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan, garlic, and spices

2. Shape into 12 meatballs and brown in skillet

3. Add marinara and simmer 20 minutes

4. Toast rolls lightly under broiler

5. Fill rolls with 3 meatballs each, top with sauce, provolone, and mozzarella

6. Broil 2 minutes until cheese melts

7. Garnish with basil and serve hot

Notes

Use turkey for leaner meatballs.

Freeze extras for up to 2 months.

Toast bread to prevent sogginess.

  • Prep Time: 15 mins
  • Cook Time: 35 mins
  • Category: Sandwiches
  • Method: Baked
  • Cuisine: Italian-American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 sub
  • Calories: 620
  • Sugar: 8g
  • Sodium: 780mg
  • Fat: 32g
  • Saturated Fat: 14g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 15g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 42g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 38g
  • Cholesterol: 120mg

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