Description
This Easy Weeknight Meatball Sub recipe is a comforting and satisfying sandwich perfect for busy evenings. Featuring juicy homemade or frozen meatballs simmered in marinara sauce, topped with melted mozzarella cheese on toasted hot dog buns, it’s a quick and delicious meal the whole family will love.
Ingredients
Meatballs
- 1 pound ground beef (95% lean)
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg
- 1-2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 24 meatballs (homemade or frozen)
Other
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 8 hot dog buns
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions
- Prepare the Meatballs
In a large bowl, combine ground beef, panko breadcrumbs, egg, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, and salt. Mix thoroughly and shape into 24 evenly sized meatballs. - Cook the Meatballs (Homemade)
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add the meatballs and turn every minute to brown all sides evenly. Once browned, reduce heat to low, carefully add marinara sauce, then cover and simmer on medium-low for 15 minutes or until the meatballs reach an internal temperature of 160°F. - Prepare Meatballs (Frozen)
If using frozen meatballs, heat marinara sauce in a large skillet over medium heat until simmering. Add frozen meatballs, cover, and cook on medium-low heat for about 25 minutes until thoroughly heated. - Toast the Buns
While the meatballs are cooking, preheat your oven's broiler and adjust the top rack to be about 6 inches from the heat source. Place hot dog buns on a baking sheet, split side up. - Assemble and Broil Subs
Place 3 meatballs inside each bun, spoon marinara sauce over them, and sprinkle generously with shredded mozzarella cheese. Place the baking sheet under the broiler and cook for 2-3 minutes or until the cheese melts and bubbles. Watch closely to prevent burning. - Serve
Remove from the oven and serve the meatball subs hot for a delicious, hearty meal.
Notes
- You can use store-bought frozen meatballs for convenience or make your own for fresher taste.
- Adjust the quantity of red pepper flakes to control the spiciness.
- Broiling cheese requires close attention to avoid burning the buns; do not step away during this step.
- These subs can be garnished with fresh basil or parsley for added flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Sandwich
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American-Italian