Save Meatball Marinara Sub Sandwiches offer a soul-warming combination of tender beef meatballs simmered in a rich, flavorful marinara sauce and nestled inside toasted rustic rolls. Topped with melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, these sandwiches make for a satisfying meal perfect for cozy gatherings and family dinners. The savory blend of Italian-American flavors in every bite promises comfort and delight.
Save The combination of baked meatballs and simmered sauce marries tenderness with robust Italian flavors. Toasting the rolls adds a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the saucy meatballs and melty cheeses. This sandwich is a beloved classic, bringing warmth and satisfaction to any mealtime.
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 oven
- Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- 2. Make meatball mixture
- 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 meatballs
- Shape the mixture into 16 meatballs (about 3-4 cm each) and arrange them on the prepared baking sheet.
- 4. Bake meatballs
- Bake the meatballs for 18–20 minutes, until browned and cooked through.
- 5. Prepare sauce base
- 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. Add tomatoes and seasonings
- 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. Combine meatballs with sauce
- Add the baked meatballs to the sauce. Simmer together for 5–10 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
- 8. Toast rolls
- 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. Assemble sandwiches
- Spoon 4 meatballs and plenty of marinara sauce into each roll. Top with mozzarella and Parmesan.
- 10. Melt cheese
- Return subs to the oven for 3–5 minutes, until cheese is melted and bubbly.
- 11. Garnish and serve
- Garnish with fresh basil or parsley, if desired. Serve hot.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
To enhance the flavor depth of the meatballs, consider gently mixing rather than vigorously stirring to keep them tender. Baking meatballs instead of frying reduces mess while maintaining juiciness. Toasting the sub rolls slightly before assembly ensures they stay crisp without becoming soggy from the sauce.
Varianten und Anpassungen
For extra richness, try mixing ground pork with beef in the meatballs. You can also add sautéed bell peppers or sliced olives into the marinara sauce for a flavor twist. Substitute gluten-free breadcrumbs and rolls to accommodate dietary needs without sacrificing taste.
Serviervorschläge
Serve these Meatball Marinara Subs alongside a simple green salad and a glass of Chianti or your favorite red wine for an authentic Italian-American meal experience. Fresh herbs on top add a bright finish to each hearty sandwich.
Save Warm, flavorful, and irresistibly cheesy, Meatball Marinara Sub Sandwiches bring a taste of Italian-American comfort food straight to your table. Whether for a weekend gathering or a satisfying dinner, these sandwiches are sure to become a favorite, offering a perfect balance of robust meatballs, tangy sauce, and melted cheese in every bite.
Common Recipe Questions
- → What type of meat is used for the meatballs?
Ground beef is used as the main protein, combined with breadcrumbs, Parmesan, and seasonings for tender, flavorful meatballs.
- → How is the marinara sauce prepared?
The sauce is made by sautéing onion and garlic, then simmering crushed tomatoes with herbs like basil, oregano, and a touch of sugar to balance acidity.
- → Can I make these sandwiches gluten-free?
Yes, substituting gluten-free breadcrumbs and rolls allows the sandwich to suit gluten-free dietary needs without sacrificing taste.
- → What cheese is used in the sandwich?
A combination of shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese is layered on top for a gooey, rich finish.
- → How should the sandwiches be assembled and served?
After baking meatballs and simmering in sauce, place several meatballs and sauce inside toasted rolls, top with cheese, then bake until melted. Garnish with fresh herbs and serve warm.