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Cheesy Meatball Sub with Marinara Sauce

Cheesy Meatball Sub with Marinara Sauce

Looking for an easy weeknight dinner that packs a savory punch? This Cheesy Meatball Sub with Marinara Sauce is your answer! With tender meatballs, rich marinara, and gooey melted cheese, all nestled in a toasted bun, this dish is a comforting classic that will satisfy your cravings and have you coming back for seconds.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Cheesy Meatball Sub is not just delicious; it’s also quick and straightforward to prepare. Perfect for busy evenings when you want to whip up something hearty and satisfying.

  • Quick to prepare: Ready in about 30 minutes!
  • Kid-friendly: A hit with the whole family!
  • Customizable: Tailor it to your taste!
  • Comfort food: Perfectly cheesy and savory!

Ingredients

  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 cups marinara sauce
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 4 sub sandwich buns
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

How to Make Cheesy Meatball Sub

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, minced garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
  3. Shape the mixture into 12 equally sized meatballs and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
  4. Drizzle olive oil over the meatballs and bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until they are cooked through and golden brown.
  5. While the meatballs are baking, heat the marinara sauce in a saucepan over medium heat until warmed through.
  6. Once the meatballs are done, remove them from the oven and transfer them to the saucepan with the marinara sauce. Stir gently to coat the meatballs in the sauce.
  7. Slice the sub buns in half and place them on a baking sheet. Toast in the oven for about 5 minutes, until lightly golden.
  8. Assemble the sandwiches by placing three meatballs on each toasted bun, spooning extra marinara sauce over the top, and finishing with a generous sprinkle of mozzarella cheese.
  9. Return the assembled subs to the oven for an additional 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  10. Serve hot and enjoy!

Tips for the Best Results

  • Use lean ground beef for a healthier option, or substitute with ground turkey or chicken.
  • For extra flavor, add chopped fresh basil or parsley to the meatball mixture.
  • Don’t skip the toasting step; it adds a nice crunch to the buns that complements the soft meatballs.

Easy Variations

  • Swap out the marinara sauce for barbecue sauce for a tasty twist.
  • Add sautéed bell peppers and onions into the mix for added veggies and flavor.
  • Use different cheeses like provolone or cheddar to change up the flavor profile.

What to Serve With It

  • A simple side salad for a fresh crunch.
  • Crispy potato wedges or fries for a classic pairing.
  • Garlic bread for an extra indulgent meal.

Storage and Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through. If reheating in the oven, cover with foil to prevent the buns from getting too hard.

Recipe Card

Cheesy Meatball Sub with Marinara Sauce
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield/Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients:
1 pound ground beef
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 large egg
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
2 cups marinara sauce
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
4 sub sandwich buns
2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, minced garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
3. Shape the mixture into 12 equally sized meatballs and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the meatballs and bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until they are cooked through and golden brown.
5. While the meatballs are baking, heat the marinara sauce in a saucepan over medium heat until warmed through.
6. Once the meatballs are done, remove them from the oven and transfer them to the saucepan with the marinara sauce. Stir gently to coat the meatballs in the sauce.
7. Slice the sub buns in half and place them on a baking sheet. Toast in the oven for about 5 minutes, until lightly golden.
8. Assemble the sandwiches by placing three meatballs on each toasted bun, spooning extra marinara sauce over the top, and finishing with a generous sprinkle of mozzarella cheese.
9. Return the assembled subs to the oven for an additional 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
10. Serve hot and enjoy!
Notes: For extra flavor, consider adding chopped fresh herbs to the meatball mixture.
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