Juicy Italian Meatball Sub Recipe (Classic One-Pan Method)
A crowd-pleasing meatball sub recipe featuring tender, juicy meatballs smothered in marinara sauce and melted mozzarella cheese.
KEY INFO
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Servings: 4 subs
- Difficulty: Medium
- Dietary: Contains gluten, dairy, eggs
EQUIPMENT NEEDED
- Large mixing bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Large skillet or saucepan
- Baking sheet
Alternative tools:
- Stand mixer (optional for mixing)
- Non-stick pan (instead of skillet)
INGREDIENTS
For the Meatballs:
- 680g/1½ lbs ground beef (80/20)
- 1 large egg
- 80g/¾ cup panko breadcrumbs
- 75g/¾ cup fresh grated parmesan
- 15g/¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp garlic powder
For Assembly:
- 720ml/24oz marinara sauce
- 200g/2 cups mozzarella cheese, sliced
- 4 submarine rolls
- 30g/2 tbsp butter (for toasting)
METHOD
- Combine all meatball ingredients in a large bowl. Mix gently with hands until just combined – don’t overwork.
- Form into 16 golf ball-sized meatballs. Each should weigh about 45g/1.5oz.
- Heat skillet over medium-high heat. Brown meatballs 5-7 minutes, turning once. Look for golden-brown crust.
- Add marinara sauce to pan. Reduce heat to low. Simmer 20 minutes covered. Internal temp should reach 165°F/74°C.
- Meanwhile, split rolls and butter inside. Toast under broiler 2-3 minutes. Watch carefully to prevent burning.
- Add meatballs to rolls. Top with extra sauce and mozzarella. Broil 2 minutes until cheese melts.
CRUCIAL TIPS
- Don’t overmix meatball mixture
- Brown meatballs well before adding sauce
- Keep sauce simmering, not boiling
- Toast bread just before serving
Storage:
- Refrigerate meatballs/sauce up to 3 days
- Freeze up to 3 months
- Assemble subs fresh
Common Mistakes:
- Skipping the browning step
- Overworking the meat mixture
- Using cold cheese (won’t melt properly)
Variations:
- Swap beef for turkey/pork blend
- Try provolone instead of mozzarella
- Add sautéed peppers and onions
- Use gluten-free bread and breadcrumbs
This recipe gives you that authentic Italian-American sub shop experience right at home. Remember: the key to exceptional meatballs is gentle mixing and proper browning. Serve immediately while the cheese is hot and gooey!
