Meatball Marinara Sub Sandwiches (Print Version)

Tender beef meatballs in savory marinara sauce, topped with melted cheese on toasted rustic sub rolls.

# Ingredient List:

→ Meatballs

01 - 1 lb ground beef
02 - 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
03 - 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
04 - 1 large egg
05 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
06 - 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
07 - 1 tsp dried oregano
08 - 1 tsp salt
09 - 1/2 tsp black pepper
10 - 2 tbsp milk

→ Marinara Sauce

11 - 2 tbsp olive oil
12 - 1 small onion, finely chopped
13 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
14 - 28 oz canned crushed tomatoes
15 - 1 tsp sugar
16 - 1 tsp dried basil
17 - 1/2 tsp dried thyme
18 - 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
19 - Salt and black pepper to taste

→ Assembly

20 - 4 rustic sub rolls (approx. 8 inches each)
21 - 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
22 - 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
23 - Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)

# How-To Steps:

01 - Preheat oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
02 - Combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, egg, garlic, parsley, oregano, salt, pepper, and milk in a large bowl. Mix gently until just combined.
03 - Form the mixture into 16 meatballs, approximately 1.25–1.5 inches each. Arrange on the prepared baking sheet.
04 - Bake for 18–20 minutes until browned and cooked through.
05 - Heat olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Sauté onion until soft, about 3–4 minutes. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
06 - Add crushed tomatoes, sugar, basil, thyme, red pepper flakes if using, salt, and pepper. Simmer uncovered for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
07 - Add baked meatballs to the sauce and simmer together for 5–10 minutes to meld flavors.
08 - Slice rolls lengthwise, leaving one side attached. Place on a baking tray and toast in the oven for 3–4 minutes until lightly crisp.
09 - Place four meatballs and marinara sauce into each roll. Top with mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses.
10 - Return sandwiches to the oven for 3–5 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
11 - Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired. Serve hot.

# Helpful Tips:

01 -
  • Classic Italian-American flavors blended into a single, satisfying sandwich.
  • Homemade marinara sauce simmered to perfection enhances tender meatballs.
  • Simple steps deliver a gourmet meal perfect for family dinners or casual get-togethers.
  • Toasted rolls and melted cheese add the ideal balance of texture and gooeyness.
02 -
  • Do not overmix the meatball mixture to keep them tender and juicy.
  • Simmer the meatballs in marinara sauce after baking to deepen flavor and keep moist.
  • Toast the rolls lightly to prevent sogginess and add crunch.
  • Use fresh herbs for garnish to add a pop of color and freshness.
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