Easy Weeknight Meatball Sub

Easy Weeknight Meatball Subs are a fast, hearty solution for busy evenings. Featuring tender meatballs simmered in marinara sauce, topped with melted cheese, and served in warm toasted rolls, this sandwich is a satisfying dinner that comes together with minimal effort and maximum flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Convenient: Perfect for weeknights—ready in under 30 minutes.
• Comfort Food Classic: Rich, savory meatballs and melted cheese make this a family favorite.
• Customizable: Easy to adapt with different sauces, cheeses, or add-ins.
• Minimal Prep: Great for using frozen or pre-made meatballs and store-bought marinara.
• Kid-Friendly: A fun, messier-than-usual dinner that even picky eaters will enjoy.

Ingredients

• 1 pound frozen or pre-cooked meatballs (about 20-24 meatballs)
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 4 hoagie rolls or sub buns
• 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
• 2 tablespoons softened butter
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Fresh parsley or basil for garnish (optional)

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Heat the meatballs according to package directions, then simmer in marinara sauce over medium heat for 10 minutes until fully heated through.
2. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
3. Split hoagie rolls and spread the inside with a mixture of softened butter, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Toast in the oven for 4–5 minutes until lightly crisped.
4. Place 4–5 meatballs into each toasted roll and spoon extra marinara sauce over the top.
5. Sprinkle each sub with mozzarella and a little Parmesan cheese, if using.
6. Return subs to the oven for 5–7 minutes, or until cheese is fully melted and bubbling.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley or basil before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4 subs
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 15 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Version: Use spicy marinara or add crushed red pepper to the sauce.
• Add Veggies: Sautéed bell peppers, mushrooms, or onions add extra flavor and texture.
• Different Cheese: Try provolone, cheddar, or a cheese blend in place of mozzarella.
• Meat Options: Use turkey, chicken, or plant-based meatballs to suit dietary needs.
• Toasted Finish: Broil briefly at the end for a golden cheese topping.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigerator: Wrap leftovers in foil and store in the fridge for up to 2 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes or until warmed through.
• Freezing: Freeze meatballs and sauce separately. Assemble fresh when ready to serve.

FAQs

Can I use homemade meatballs?

Yes, homemade meatballs work great and can be made in advance for convenience.

How do I keep the rolls from getting soggy?

Toasting the rolls and draining excess sauce from the meatballs helps prevent sogginess.

Can I make these ahead of time?

You can prep the meatballs and sauce in advance. Assemble and toast the subs just before serving.

What kind of rolls work best?

Use sturdy rolls like hoagie buns, baguettes, or ciabatta that can hold the sauce and meatballs without falling apart.

Can I add vegetables to the subs?

Yes, sautéed onions, mushrooms, or peppers make excellent additions.

Is there a dairy-free version?

Use plant-based cheese and verify that your bread and sauce are dairy-free.

Can I use different sauces?

Yes, you can substitute with pesto, barbecue, or even a spicy tomato sauce.

How many meatballs go in each sub?

Typically 4–5 medium-sized meatballs per sub works well, depending on the size of the bun.

Can I make these subs gluten-free?

Use gluten-free buns and ensure the meatballs and sauce are also gluten-free.

What sides go well with meatball subs?

Serve with a green salad, oven fries, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Conclusion

Easy Weeknight Meatball Subs are a simple yet satisfying way to bring big flavor to the table with minimal effort. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or just looking for a quick comfort food fix, these subs deliver everything you need in one warm, cheesy bite.