Pin It Meatball Marinara Sub Sandwiches are the ultimate comfort food, combining tender, juicy beef meatballs simmered in a rich, flavorful marinara sauce. Piled high in toasted rustic sub rolls and topped with a generous blanket of melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, these sandwiches bring a warm, cozy touch to any meal or gathering. Perfect for satisfying hearty appetites and bringing a taste of Italian-American tradition right to your table.
Pin It This recipe balances bold Italian-American flavors with simple preparation. Fresh herbs and quality ingredients shine through in every bite, while the toasted bread and melted cheese make it an irresistible handheld meal. Whether served for a weeknight dinner or a relaxed weekend get-together, these meatball subs are sure to impress and satisfy.
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 the oven to 200°C (400°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- 2. 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 the mixture into 16 meatballs (about 3-4 cm each) and arrange them on the prepared baking sheet.
- 4. Bake the meatballs for 18–20 minutes, until browned and cooked through.
- 5. 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. 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. Add the baked meatballs to the sauce. Simmer together for 5–10 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
- 8. 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. Spoon 4 meatballs and plenty of marinara sauce into each roll. Top with mozzarella and Parmesan.
- 10. Return subs to the oven for 3–5 minutes, until cheese is melted and bubbly.
- 11. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley, if desired. Serve hot.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
Um die besten Fleischbällchen zu erhalten, vermeiden Sie es, die Mischung zu stark zu bearbeiten, damit sie zart bleiben. Nutzen Sie frische Kräuter für ein intensiveres Aroma und achten Sie darauf, dass die Bälle gleich groß sind, damit sie gleichmäßig garen.
Varianten und Anpassungen
Für mehr Geschmack können Sie Rindfleisch mit Schweinefleisch mischen. Variieren Sie die Sauce, indem Sie sautierte Paprika oder Oliven hinzufügen. Für glutenfreie Varianten tauschen Sie Semmelbrösel und Brötchen entsprechend aus.
Serviervorschläge
Servieren Sie zu diesen Fleischbällchen-Subs einen einfachen grünen Salat und ein Glas Chianti, um das italienische Flair zu komplettieren. Frische Basilikum- oder Petersilienblätter runden optisch und geschmacklich ab.
Pin It Mit Liebe und Sorgfalt zubereitet, bringen diese Meatball Marinara Subs Geschmack und Gemütlichkeit auf den Tisch. Sie sind ein Ehrengast auf jedem Menü und laden zum Teilen und Genießen ein.
Recipe FAQs
- → How do I keep meatballs tender?
Use a mixture of ground beef with breadcrumbs, egg, and milk to maintain moisture. Handle the mixture gently to avoid toughening.
- → Can I prepare the marinara sauce ahead of time?
Yes, simmer the sauce in advance and reheat it gently before adding meatballs to let flavors meld beautifully.
- → What type of bread works best for these subs?
Rustic sub or hoagie rolls with a slightly crisp crust and soft inside are ideal for holding the meatballs and sauce without becoming soggy.
- → How can I make the cheese topping perfect?
Top the subs with shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan, then bake briefly until the cheese melts and becomes bubbly and golden.
- → Are there optional herbs to enhance the flavor?
Fresh parsley or basil can be added to both the meatball mixture and as garnish to brighten the overall taste.