Cheesy Meatball Subs are a classic comfort food treat that combines juicy meatballs, melted cheese, and a soft, warm sub roll. The combination of hearty meat, gooey cheese, and a savory tomato sauce makes this sandwich an all-time favorite for lunch or dinner.
I love making these subs when I want something satisfying and simple. One of my favorite parts is letting the cheese get nice and melty over the meatballs—it adds that perfect creaminess that makes every bite feel special. I also like to toast the bread a little before assembling to give it a bit of crunch while keeping the inside soft.
Serving these subs with a side of crispy fries or a fresh green salad makes for a great, well-rounded meal. They’re a big hit with friends and family, especially on casual weekends or game days when everyone’s craving something tasty and filling. I find that these cheesebombs always bring a smile and a little bit of joy to the table.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground beef and breadcrumbs: Using a mix of beef and pork adds extra flavor and moisture. If you want a lighter version, try ground turkey or chicken. For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed crackers.
Parmesan cheese: This adds a nutty depth to the meatballs. If you don’t have Parmesan, Pecorino Romano or Asiago make good substitutes.
Fresh parsley: Fresh herbs brighten the meatball flavor. If you don’t have parsley, basil or oregano work well too.
Marinara sauce: You can use store-bought for convenience, but homemade sauce really shines here. If you like it spicy, add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
Mozzarella cheese: Fresh mozzarella melts beautifully for that gooey topping. Provolone or fontina are great alternatives if you want a different taste but the same meltiness.
Sub rolls: Choose soft, sturdy rolls that can hold the meatballs and sauce without falling apart. If you want a toasted crunch, French baguettes work nicely but watch the size of the meatballs.
How Can I Make Juicy, Tender Meatballs Every Time?
Getting meatballs tender and juicy takes gentle handling and the right mix of ingredients:
- Don’t overmix: Combine your meat and other ingredients just until mixed. Overworking makes meatballs tough.
- Use breadcrumbs and egg: They bind and add moisture to keep the meatballs soft.
- Shape them evenly: About 1.5 inches gives a good size for cooking evenly.
- Bake instead of frying: Baking reduces splatter and cooks them gently, keeping them moist. Letting them simmer in sauce adds flavor and juiciness.
These tips help keep your meatballs tender and full of flavor, perfect for packing into a sub roll and topping with melty cheese.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Baking sheet – perfect for cooking meatballs evenly without sticking.
- Parchment paper – helps with easy cleanup and keeps meatballs from sticking to the pan.
- Large mixing bowl – great for combining your meatball ingredients gently.
- Saucepan – warms the marinara sauce and simmers the meatballs nicely.
- Oven-safe baking dish or tray – for melting cheese on the subs under the broiler.
- Sharp knife – to slice the sub rolls cleanly without crushing them.
- Pastry brush – handy for brushing olive oil on rolls for a crisp finish.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter sub that’s still tasty.
- Add chopped fresh basil or oregano to the meatballs for extra herb flavor that pairs well with tomato sauce.
- Try provolone or fontina cheese instead of mozzarella for a different but melty cheese topping.
- Include sautéed mushrooms or roasted bell peppers inside the sub to add a tasty veggie boost.
How to Make Cheesy Meatball Subs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Meatballs:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 large egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Sauce and Assembly:
- 2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 4 sub rolls (Italian or hoagie rolls)
- 8 oz (225g) mozzarella cheese, sliced or shredded
- Olive oil, for brushing the rolls
Time Needed:
This recipe takes about 10 minutes for preparation, 20 minutes baking the meatballs, plus another 10 minutes for assembling and melting the cheese. In total, plan for about 40 minutes from start to finish. This is a great recipe if you want a delicious, hearty meal without spending too long in the kitchen!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Meatballs:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large bowl, gently mix the ground meat, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, parsley, egg, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper until just combined. Be careful not to overmix so your meatballs stay tender. Shape the mixture into 1.5-inch meatballs and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
2. Bake the Meatballs and Prepare Sauce:
Bake the meatballs in your preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until they are cooked through and nicely browned. While the meatballs bake, warm the marinara sauce in a saucepan over medium heat. Once baked, add the meatballs to the sauce and gently stir to coat them. Let them simmer together for 5 minutes to soak up the flavors.
3. Assemble the Subs and Melt Cheese:
Cut the sub rolls open lengthwise, keeping one side attached like a hinge. Brush the inside lightly with olive oil, then toast the rolls in the oven for 3-5 minutes until slightly crispy. Fill each roll with the saucy meatballs, spooning on extra sauce. Top with sliced or shredded mozzarella cheese. Return the sandwiches to the oven on broil for 2-3 minutes until the cheese melts and bubbles with light golden spots. Remove from the oven, sprinkle extra chopped parsley on top, and serve immediately.
Can I Use Frozen Meatballs for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen meatballs. Just thaw them completely in the fridge overnight or heat them gently in the marinara sauce until warmed through before assembling the subs.
What Can I Substitute for Sub Rolls?
If you don’t have sub rolls, you can use hoagie rolls, baguettes, or even soft sandwich rolls. Just make sure they’re sturdy enough to hold the meatballs and sauce without falling apart.
How Should I Store Leftover Meatball Subs?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through. To keep the bread from getting soggy, consider wrapping the meatballs separately from the rolls.
Can I Make the Meatballs Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare and bake the meatballs a day ahead. Keep them refrigerated and reheat gently in marinara sauce before assembling your subs for the best results.
