Description

This Ultimate Beefy Meatball Sub Delight is a hearty and satisfying sandwich featuring juicy homemade beef meatballs simmered in rich marinara sauce, topped with melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, all nestled in toasted hoagie rolls. Perfect for a comforting lunch or dinner, this recipe brings together classic Italian flavors with fresh herbs and a blend of cheeses for an irresistible sub experience.

Ingredients

For the Meatballs

1 lb ground beef (85% lean/15% fat preferred)
1 egg
1 slice whole wheat bread (soaked in milk and squeezed)
1/4 cup minced yellow onion
1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
2 garlic cloves, pressed
1 tbsp fresh minced basil
1/2 tbsp fresh minced parsley
1/2–1 tsp kosher coarse or sea salt (to taste)
1/8–1/4 tsp black pepper (to taste)

For Assembling the Subs

3 hoagie rolls
12–15 beef meatballs (homemade as above)
1–1.5 cups marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
3 tbsp freshly grated Parmesan cheese
1–1.5 cups thick shredded mozzarella cheese
2 tsp dried oregano

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Instructions

Prepare the Meatball Mixture: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, egg, soaked and squeezed bread, minced onion, grated Parmesan, pressed garlic, fresh basil, fresh parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until all ingredients are evenly incorporated, being careful not to overwork the meat to keep the meatballs tender.
Form the Meatballs: Shape the mixture into 12 to 15 evenly sized meatballs, about 1.5 inches in diameter each. Try to make them uniform for even cooking.
Cook the Meatballs: Heat a skillet over medium heat and brown the meatballs on all sides until nicely seared, about 5-7 minutes. Then, reduce the heat to low, add marinara sauce, and gently simmer the meatballs in the sauce for 20-25 minutes until fully cooked and tender.
Prepare Hoagie Rolls: While the meatballs cook, lightly toast the hoagie rolls either in the oven or on a skillet until they are just crisp on the outside but still soft inside.
Assemble the Subs: Place the cooked meatballs into each toasted hoagie roll and spoon a generous amount of marinara sauce over them. Sprinkle each sub with shredded mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, and dried oregano for extra flavor.
Melt the Cheese: Place the assembled subs on a baking sheet and broil in the oven for 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, keeping a close eye to avoid burning.
Serve: Remove from oven, let cool slightly, and serve warm for a delicious and filling meal.

Notes

For best flavor, use homemade marinara sauce or a high-quality store-bought version.
You can make meatballs ahead of time and freeze them; just reheat in sauce before assembling subs.
Adjust seasoning to your taste, especially the salt and herbs.
If you prefer, swap mozzarella for provolone or another melting cheese for a different flavor profile.
The sub rolls can be toasted in a toaster oven, oven, or on a skillet depending on convenience.