Easy Weeknight Meatball Sub

If you’re looking for a cozy, comforting meal that the whole family will love, then this Easy Weeknight Meatball Sub is just what you need! This recipe holds a special place in my heart because it combines simple ingredients into a dish that feels like a warm hug after a long day. Whether you’re juggling busy weeknights or hosting friends for a casual gathering, these meatball subs are sure to be a hit. Plus, they come together quickly, making them perfect for those days when time is tight.

Imagine sinking your teeth into juicy meatballs smothered in rich marinara sauce, all topped with gooey melted cheese and nestled inside a crusty roll. It’s not just food; it’s an experience that brings everyone together around the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy: With minimal prep time and only 35 minutes total, this recipe is perfect for busy evenings.
• Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the cheesy goodness of these meatball subs!
• Make-ahead friendly: You can prepare the meatballs and sauce in advance, making mealtime even easier.
• Deliciously satisfying: Each bite is packed with flavor from Italian herbs and rich marinara sauce.
• Customizable: Personalize your subs with different toppings or ingredients to suit everyone’s taste!

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are simple, wholesome, and easy to find. They come together to create a delicious meal that will have everyone asking for more!

• 1 lb lean ground beef
• 1 cup Italian-style breadcrumbs
• 1 large egg
• ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cups marinara sauce (jarred or homemade)
• 4 crusty sub rolls
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp dried Italian herbs (oregano, basil, thyme)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Here are some fun twists to try:

• Swap the protein: Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option.
• Add some veggies: Mix in chopped spinach or bell peppers into the meatball mixture for added nutrition.
• Change up the cheese: Try using provolone or cheddar instead of mozzarella for a different flavor profile.
• Go gluten-free: Substitute regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free ones to make this dish suitable for gluten-sensitive friends.

How to Make Easy Weeknight Meatball Sub

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures it’s hot enough to cook those meatballs perfectly golden brown.

Step 2: Prepare the Meatball Mixture

In a large bowl, combine the lean ground beef, Italian-style breadcrumbs, egg, garlic powder, freshly grated Parmesan cheese, dried Italian herbs, salt, and pepper. Mix gently but thoroughly until everything is well combined. This step is crucial because it ensures that your meatballs will hold together while baking.

Step 3: Shape the Meatballs

Now it’s time to get your hands involved! Shape the mixture into 1-inch meatballs. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This makes cleanup easier later on!

Step 4: Bake the Meatballs

Bake those meatballs in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes or until they are browned and cooked through. Baking gives them that nice crust while keeping them juicy on the inside.

Step 5: Simmer in Marinara Sauce

In a skillet over medium heat, add your marinara sauce and gently toss in the baked meatballs. Let them simmer for about five minutes. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully!

Step 6: Assemble Your Subs

Grab those crusty sub rolls and fill them with the saucy meatballs. Top generously with shredded mozzarella cheese. Broil them for just 2-3 minutes until that cheese is melted and bubbly—trust me; this step makes all the difference!

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!

Serve your Easy Weeknight Meatball Subs warm and watch as everyone digs in happily! These hearty sandwiches are perfect for sharing—and you might want to make extra because they’ll disappear fast!

Pro Tips for Making Easy Weeknight Meatball Sub

Creating the perfect meatball sub can be a breeze with a few helpful tips!

• Use lean ground beef: This helps keep your meatballs juicy without being too greasy, allowing the flavors to shine through.
• Don’t overmix the meatball mixture: Gently combining the ingredients ensures tender meatballs rather than tough ones, achieving that light and fluffy texture we all love.
• Experiment with herbs: Add fresh parsley or basil for an extra burst of flavor; it brightens up the dish and makes it more aromatic.
• Toast your sub rolls: Lightly toasting the rolls before adding the fillings gives them a delightful crunch, creating a lovely contrast with the soft meatballs and cheese.
• Serve immediately: These subs are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven while the cheese is gooey and the meatballs are warm, enhancing every bite.

How to Serve Easy Weeknight Meatball Sub

Presenting your Easy Weeknight Meatball Sub can make mealtime feel special, even on a busy weekday!

Garnishes

• Fresh basil leaves: A sprinkle of these fragrant leaves adds color and a fresh flavor that complements the richness of the dish.
• Crushed red pepper flakes: For those who enjoy a little heat, adding a pinch gives your sub a zesty kick that elevates its overall taste.

Side Dishes

• Simple green salad: A refreshing mix of greens tossed in olive oil and lemon juice provides a light balance to the hearty subs.
• Oven-baked fries: Crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, these golden fries make for a classic pairing that’s sure to please everyone at the table.
• Garlic bread: Soft, buttery garlic bread can be an indulgent addition that complements your subs perfectly and is great for soaking up any leftover marinara sauce.
• Steamed vegetables: Lightly steamed broccoli or green beans add a nutritious touch to your meal while keeping it colorful and vibrant.

Whether you’re preparing this dish for family or friends, these serving suggestions will help turn your Easy Weeknight Meatball Sub into an unforgettable dining experience! Enjoy every delicious bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Easy Weeknight Meatball Sub is not only a delicious meal but also perfect for meal prep! You can make the meatballs in advance and store them for quick weeknight dinners or casual get-togethers.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow any leftover meatball subs to cool completely before storing.
• Wrap each sub tightly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap.
• Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Prepare meatballs according to the recipe but do not bake them.
• Freeze raw meatballs on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months. You can also freeze baked meatballs separately from the buns.

Reheating

• For refrigerated subs, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Remove wraps and place subs on a baking sheet; cover loosely with foil to prevent over-browning.
• Heat for about 15-20 minutes, or until warm throughout. For frozen subs, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making an Easy Weeknight Meatball Sub.

Can I use turkey instead of beef for the Easy Weeknight Meatball Sub?

Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great alternative and will work well in this recipe. Just be sure to adjust the seasoning as needed.

How do I make my Easy Weeknight Meatball Sub healthier?

You can use whole grain sub rolls, lean ground meat, and add extra veggies like sautéed peppers or spinach into the sauce for added nutrition!

Can I make meatballs ahead of time for my Easy Weeknight Meatball Sub?

Yes! You can prepare the meatballs in advance and either refrigerate them for up to three days or freeze them for later use.

What type of marinara sauce should I use?

You can use store-bought marinara sauce for convenience, or make your own with fresh tomatoes, garlic, and herbs if you prefer a homemade touch!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Easy Weeknight Meatball Sub! It’s special because it brings together simple ingredients into a hearty meal that everyone loves. Whether it’s a busy night or a casual gathering, this recipe is sure to satisfy. Enjoy every bite and feel free to share your experiences! Happy cooking!