Description
This Easy Weeknight Meatball Subs recipe features juicy, tender meatballs simmered in rich marinara sauce, nestled in warm hot dog buns and topped with melted mozzarella cheese. Perfect for a quick and satisfying dinner, it combines classic Italian flavors with simple preparation for a comforting meal the whole family will love.
Ingredients
Scale
Meatballs
- 1 pound ground beef 95% lean
- ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg
- 1–2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 24 meatballs (homemade or frozen)
Cooking
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cups marinara sauce
Assembly
- 8 hot dog buns
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions
- Prepare the Meatball Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, panko breadcrumbs, egg, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, and salt. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly incorporated. Shape the mixture into approximately 24 uniform meatballs.
- Brown the Meatballs: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs in batches and brown them on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. This step seals in the juices and adds rich flavor.
- Simmer in Marinara Sauce: Once browned, pour the marinara sauce into the skillet with the meatballs. Reduce heat to low and let it simmer gently until the meatballs are fully cooked through, about 10-12 minutes. Stir occasionally to coat the meatballs evenly with sauce.
- Assemble the Subs: Preheat your oven’s broiler. Place the hot dog buns on a baking sheet and evenly divide the meatballs among them. Spoon extra marinara sauce over the meatballs, then sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese generously on top.
- Broil Until Melty: Place the assembled subs under the broiler for 2-3 minutes, watching closely, until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden. Remove from the oven carefully.
- Serve and Enjoy: Serve the meatball subs hot, optionally garnished with fresh basil or extra red pepper flakes for added flavor. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or casual gathering.
Notes
- You can use store-bought frozen meatballs to save time without compromising flavor.
- Customize the subs with additional toppings such as sliced bell peppers, onions, or fresh herbs for extra texture and taste.
- For a spicier kick, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce to the marinara.
- To make it gluten-free, substitute panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs and use gluten-free buns.
Keywords: meatball subs, easy dinner, weeknight meal, Italian sandwiches, meatballs, marinara sauce, mozzarella, quick recipe