Description
This Easy Weeknight Meatball Sub recipe is a delicious and satisfying sandwich perfect for a quick dinner. Featuring tender homemade or frozen meatballs simmered in marinara sauce, topped with melted mozzarella cheese, and served in warm hot dog buns, this classic Italian-American favorite is simple to prepare and full of comforting flavors.
Ingredients
Scale
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
Sub Assembly
- 24 meatballs, homemade or frozen
- 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 the ground beef, panko breadcrumbs, egg, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, and salt. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated. Form into 24 small meatballs.
- Cook the Meatballs: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs and cook, turning occasionally, until browned on all sides and cooked through, about 8-10 minutes. Alternatively, if using frozen meatballs, cook according to package instructions.
- Simmer in Sauce: Add the marinara sauce to the skillet with the meatballs and reduce heat to low. Simmer the meatballs in the sauce for about 5 minutes to allow flavors to meld and ensure meatballs are heated through.
- Assemble the Subs: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Slice the hot dog buns lengthwise, leaving one side attached to act as a hinge. Place 3 meatballs with sauce inside each bun, and top evenly with mozzarella cheese.
- Melt the Cheese: Place the assembled subs on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve: Remove the subs from the oven and serve hot, optionally garnished with fresh basil or parsley for extra flavor.
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for beef to lighten the meatballs.
- Use store-bought frozen meatballs for an even quicker meal.
- For extra spice, add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the marinara.
- Toast the buns lightly before assembling for added texture.
- Leftover meatballs can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months.
