Description
Irresistible subs filled with warm bread, juicy meatballs, and gooey cheese, perfect for cozy evenings.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef (or a ground lamb/beef mix)
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan
- 1 egg, beaten
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 12 small frozen or fresh meatballs (or shape from mixture)
- 1 1/2 cups marinara sauce
- 4 soft sub rolls or hoagie buns
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- Optional: fresh basil leaves, red pepper flakes
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly oil it.
- In a bowl, combine ground beef, panko, Parmesan, egg, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined. Form into small, even meatballs (about 1 inch) or use frozen meatballs for a shortcut.
- Heat a skillet over medium heat with a splash of oil and brown meatballs on all sides, about 3–4 minutes. Transfer to the baking sheet.
- Bake meatballs for 10–12 minutes or until cooked through. Meanwhile, warm the marinara sauce in a saucepan. Toss baked meatballs in sauce so they’re evenly coated.
- Slice rolls lengthwise without cutting all the way through. Spoon sauced meatballs into each roll, then top generously with shredded mozzarella.
- Place assembled subs on a baking sheet and bake for 5–8 minutes, or broil 1–2 minutes until the cheese is bubbling and slightly golden. Watch closely under the broiler to prevent burning.
- Garnish with fresh basil or red pepper flakes. Serve hot with a side salad or roasted fall vegetables.
Notes
Ensure meatballs are the same size for even cooking. Use whole-milk mozzarella for the creamiest melt.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian