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Delicious cheesy meatball subs with melted mozzarella and marinara sauce

Cheesy Meatball Subs

These Cheesy Meatball Subs are a delicious and hearty meal, featuring tender, flavorful meatballs simmered in marinara sauce and loaded into toasted sub rolls with melted provolone and mozzarella cheese.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings 4 subs
Calories 650 kcal

Equipment

  • Large bowl
  • Large skillet or Dutch oven
  • Small bowl
  • Baking sheet

Ingredients
  

Meatballs

  • 1 lb ground beef (80/20 works best for flavor and moisture)
  • 1/2 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup fresh breadcrumbs (panko or homemade for lighter texture)
  • 1/4 cup whole milk (the secret ingredient for ultimate moisture!)
  • 1 large egg, lightly beaten
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced (for meatballs)
  • 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 2 tbsp olive oil (for searing)

Subs

  • 24 oz marinara sauce (your favorite jarred brand or homemade)
  • 4 crusty sub rolls (hoagie rolls or Italian rolls)
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 clove garlic, minced (for garlic butter)
  • 8 slices provolone cheese
  • 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • Fresh basil for garnish Optional

Instructions
 

Meatball Preparation

  • Gently combine ground beef, Parmesan, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, minced garlic, parsley, oregano, salt, and pepper in a large bowl, being careful not to overmix.
  • Roll the mixture into about 16-18 1.5-inch meatballs.

Cooking Meatballs

  • Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat and sear meatballs for 2-3 minutes per side until browned, then remove.
  • Pour marinara sauce into the same skillet, bring to a simmer, add meatballs, cover, and simmer for 15-30 minutes until cooked through and tender.

Sub Assembly

  • Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Combine melted butter and minced garlic for garlic butter.
  • Split sub rolls, brush cut sides with garlic butter, and place on a baking sheet.
  • Line each roll with provolone, spoon in 4-5 meatballs and sauce, then top with shredded mozzarella.

Baking and Serving

  • Bake for 8-10 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly and rolls are lightly toasted.
  • Garnish with fresh basil, if desired, and serve immediately.

Notes

For extra flavor, you can toast the breadcrumbs before adding them to the meatball mixture. If you prefer a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinara sauce while it simmers.