Dinner

Meatball Subs Recipe

ByMariam Harutyunyan February 6, 2026February 6, 2026

Introduction

Meatball subs are a comforting and hearty sandwich perfect for lunch or dinner. Juicy homemade meatballs simmered in marinara sauce, topped with melted cheese, and nestled in a soft hoagie roll make for a delicious and satisfying meal.

Four toasted hoagie rolls are placed on a white marbled surface, each stuffed with a thick layer of rich red marinara sauce mixed with meatballs. On top, there is a generous layer of melted white mozzarella cheese, browned in spots from baking. One hoagie is pulled apart in the middle, showing gooey melted cheese stretching between the separated halves. Small green bits of herbs are sprinkled over the cheese, adding a fresh touch. A few bits of cheese and herbs are scattered around the rolls. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 pound 85% lean ground beef (or leaner beef, turkey, or chicken)
½ onion, finely chopped

¼ cup chopped fresh Italian parsley
1 teaspoon kosher salt (reduce by half if using fine salt)

½ cup breadcrumbs (Italian or panko also work)
⅓ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

½ teaspoon onion powder
½ teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (store-bought or homemade)

1 large egg
16 ounces marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
4 hoagie rolls (or submarine rolls or hot dog buns)

2 cups freshly shredded mozzarella cheese (or Parmesan or provolone)
Chopped fresh basil and/or Italian parsley for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 2: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, finely chopped onion, parsley, kosher salt, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, onion powder, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and egg. Mix gently until just combined.
Step 3: Shape the mixture into 16 evenly sized meatballs and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
Step 4: Bake the meatballs for 12 to 15 minutes until the edges are crispy and the internal temperature reaches 160°F.

Step 5: While the meatballs bake, warm the marinara sauce in a large saucepan over low to medium heat.
Step 6: Once cooked, add the meatballs to the saucepan and gently coat them with the marinara sauce.
Step 7: Place four sauced meatballs into each hoagie roll and top generously with shredded mozzarella cheese.

Step 8: Place the assembled subs under the broiler for a couple of minutes until the cheese melts and bubbles. Watch carefully to prevent burning.
Step 9: Remove from the oven and sprinkle with chopped fresh basil and/or parsley before serving.

Tips & Variations

Use turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option.

Substitute the mozzarella with provolone or Parmesan for different flavor profiles.
Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to the marinara sauce for a spicy kick.
Try using panko breadcrumbs for lighter, airier meatballs.

Storage

Store leftover meatball subs wrapped in foil or airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through. For best texture, reheat before adding fresh herbs.