
Baked Cheesy Meatball Subs – The Perfect Comfort Meal
Introduction
If you’re looking for a quick and comforting dish that’s big on flavor, these Baked Cheesy Meatball Subs are exactly what you need. Juicy homemade meatballs smothered in marinara sauce and topped with gooey melted cheese, all nestled in toasted sub rolls – this is the ultimate crowd-pleasing recipe. Perfect for family dinners, game days, or any time you’re craving something hearty and delicious!
Ingredients
For the meatballs:
- 1 lb (450 g) ground beef or a mix of beef and pork
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and black pepper (to taste)
For the subs:
- 4 sub rolls or baguettes
- 1 1/2 cups marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Chopped parsley or basil (for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Meatballs
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ground meat, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, egg, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Roll the mixture into evenly sized meatballs and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Bake the meatballs for 15–20 minutes, or until fully cooked and golden.
Step 2: Prep the Sub Rolls
- Slice the sub rolls lengthwise and hollow out the centers slightly to make space for the filling.
- Arrange the rolls on a baking tray lined with parchment paper.
Step 3: Assemble the Subs
- Spoon a layer of marinara sauce into each hollowed-out sub roll.
- Place a few baked meatballs into each roll.
- Top the meatballs with more marinara sauce, followed by shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
Step 4: Bake the Subs
- Transfer the assembled subs to the oven and bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- For a crispy, golden cheese topping, broil the subs for an additional 2–3 minutes. Watch closely to prevent burning.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
- Remove the subs from the oven and sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley or basil for a burst of flavor and color.
- Serve hot with a side of fries, chips, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Tips for the Best Meatball Subs
- Use a mix of beef and pork for meatballs that are extra tender and flavorful.
- Add a touch of crushed red pepper flakes to the marinara sauce for a spicy kick.
- Customize your subs with extras like sautéed onions, bell peppers, or jalapeños.
- If you’re short on time, use store-bought meatballs and marinara sauce to speed things up.
Conclusion
These Baked Cheesy Meatball Subs are the ultimate comfort food, combining tender meatballs, savory marinara, and melted cheese in one irresistible sandwich. They’re easy to prepare, versatile, and guaranteed to satisfy any craving. Make these for your next meal, and watch them disappear in no time!
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