Save Experience the comforting joy of Meatball Marinara Sub Sandwiches, where tender, juicy beef meatballs swim in a rich, aromatic marinara sauce. Nestled inside toasted rustic rolls and crowned with melting mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, these sandwiches offer a warm, hearty meal perfect for cozy family dinners or casual gatherings. The blend of herbs, the savory sauce, and the gooey cheese create an irresistible Italian-American classic that satisfies every craving.
Save This sandwich harmoniously brings together simple ingredients with rich Italian flavors. The freshly baked meatballs locked in savory tomato sauce create a filling experience unlike store-bought sandwiches. Toasting the rolls enhances their crustiness, while fresh herbs add a bright note at the end. This recipe bridges classic comfort with a touch of rustic charm, making every bite memorable.
Ingredients
- For the Meatballs
- 500 g (1 lb) ground beef
- 50 g (1/2 cup) breadcrumbs
- 40 g (1/4 cup) grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp milk
- For the Marinara Sauce
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 800 g (28 oz) canned crushed tomatoes
- 1 tsp sugar
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- For Assembly
- 4 rustic sub rolls or hoagie rolls (about 20 cm / 8 inches each)
- 160 g (1 1/2 cups) shredded mozzarella cheese
- 40 g (1/4 cup) grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- 1. Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- 2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, egg, garlic, parsley, oregano, salt, pepper, and milk. Mix gently until combined—do not overwork.
- 3. Shape the mixture into 16 meatballs (about 3-4 cm each) and arrange them on the prepared baking sheet.
- 4. Bake the meatballs for 18–20 minutes, until browned and cooked through.
- 5. While the meatballs bake, heat olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add onion and cook 3–4 minutes until soft. Add garlic and sauté 1 minute.
- 6. Stir in crushed tomatoes, sugar, basil, thyme, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook uncovered for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- 7. Add the baked meatballs to the sauce. Simmer together for 5–10 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
- 8. Slice each sub roll lengthwise, leaving one side attached. Place on a baking tray and toast in the oven for 3–4 minutes until lightly crisp.
- 9. Spoon 4 meatballs and plenty of marinara sauce into each roll. Top with mozzarella and Parmesan.
- 10. Return subs to the oven for 3–5 minutes, until cheese is melted and bubbly.
- 11. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley, if desired. Serve hot.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
For the best meatballs, mix the ingredients gently to keep them tender and avoid toughness. Baking the meatballs instead of frying saves time and makes cleanup easier. Toast your rolls just enough to achieve a crisp exterior without drying the bread. Simmer the marinara sauce uncovered to concentrate flavors and thicken the sauce beautifully.
Varianten und Anpassungen
For extra flavor, consider mixing half beef and half pork for the meatballs. You can add sautéed bell peppers or sliced olives to the marinara sauce to give it a unique twist. For gluten-free options, substitute the breadcrumbs and rolls accordingly without compromising taste.
Serviervorschläge
Pair these hearty subs with a simple green salad and a glass of Chianti for an authentic Italian-American meal. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley for added freshness and color. Serve hot to enjoy the cheese at its melty best.
Save These Meatball Marinara Sub Sandwiches bring warmth and satisfaction in every bite, perfect for sharing around the table on cooler evenings or whenever you crave a filling Italian-American meal. With simple steps and familiar ingredients, making these subs at home is both rewarding and delicious.
Recipe FAQs
- → How do I keep the meatballs tender and juicy?
Mix the ingredients gently and avoid overworking the meat. Adding milk and breadcrumbs helps retain moisture during baking.
- → Can I prepare the marinara sauce in advance?
Yes, the sauce can be made ahead and refrigerated for a day to allow flavors to deepen before combining with meatballs.
- → What type of rolls work best for this sandwich?
Toasted rustic sub rolls or hoagie rolls that have a sturdy crumb and crust hold up well to the sauce and toppings.
- → Is there a way to add extra flavor to the meatballs?
Incorporate fresh herbs like parsley and oregano or try a mix of beef and pork for richer taste.
- → How can I make the cheese topping perfectly melted?
Place sandwiches back in the oven just until the mozzarella and Parmesan are bubbly and lightly golden.