Description
This Easy Weeknight Meatball Sub recipe features juicy homemade or frozen meatballs simmered in marinara sauce, nestled in toasted hot dog buns, and topped with melted mozzarella cheese. Perfect for a quick and comforting dinner that comes together in just 45 minutes, this classic Italian-American sub is bursting with flavor and sure to satisfy the whole family.
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 Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 8 hot dog buns
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions
- Prepare Meatballs: If making homemade meatballs, combine ground beef, panko breadcrumbs, egg, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, and salt in a large bowl. Mix well and form into 24 meatballs.
- Brown Meatballs: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once shimmering, add meatballs and brown evenly by turning them every minute or so until all sides have a nice crust.
- Simmer Meatballs in Sauce: Lower heat to low, slowly pour marinara sauce over browned meatballs, then increase heat to medium-low. Cover skillet with a lid and simmer for 15 minutes or until meatballs reach an internal temperature of 160°F.
- For Frozen Meatballs: Heat marinara sauce in a large skillet over medium heat until simmering. Add frozen meatballs, cover, and cook on medium-low heat until warmed through, about 25 minutes.
- Prepare Buns for Broiling: While meatballs are cooking, arrange hot dog buns on a baking sheet. Position the top rack of your oven about 6 inches below the broiler and preheat the broiler.
- Assemble Subs: Place 3 meatballs into each bun, spoon marinara sauce over the meatballs, and top with shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Broil Subs: Place the assembled meatball subs under the broiler for 2-3 minutes or until the cheese melts and bubbles. Watch carefully to prevent buns from burning.
- Serve: Remove from oven and serve warm for a delicious, hearty meal.
Notes
- Use 95% lean ground beef for healthier meatballs with less fat.
- If using homemade meatballs, ensure they reach an internal temperature of 160°F for safety.
- Frozen meatballs can be used for convenience and require longer cooking time in sauce.
- Keep a close eye while broiling to avoid burning the buns.
- Optionally, add fresh basil or parsley for garnish to enhance flavor and presentation.
- Substitute mozzarella with provolone or cheddar cheese if desired.
