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Easy Weeknight Meatball Sub Recipe

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4.2 from 10 reviews

This Easy Weeknight Meatball Sub recipe features tender homemade or frozen meatballs smothered in savory marinara sauce and melted mozzarella cheese, all nestled in warm hot dog buns. Quick to prepare and perfect for a satisfying dinner or casual lunch, these meatball subs bring classic Italian-American flavors together with simple ingredients and straightforward steps.

  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 8 Subs

Ingredients

Homemade 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

Meatball Subs

  • 24 meatballs (homemade or frozen)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 cups marinara sauce
  • 8 hot dog buns
  • 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese

Instructions

  1. Make the Meatballs: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, panko breadcrumbs, egg, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, and salt. Mix thoroughly until well combined. Shape the mixture into 24 evenly sized meatballs.
  2. Brown the Meatballs: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add the meatballs carefully, cooking them by turning every minute or so to ensure all sides get browned, creating a flavorful crust.
  3. Simmer in Sauce: Once meatballs are browned, reduce the heat to low. Slowly pour marinara sauce into the skillet with the meatballs. Increase heat to medium-low, cover the skillet with a lid, and let meatballs simmer gently for about 15 minutes, or until they reach an internal temperature of 160°F, ensuring they are fully cooked and tender.
  4. Assemble the Subs: Preheat your oven or broiler. Place 3 meatballs inside each hot dog bun. Spoon some marinara sauce from the skillet over the meatballs, and sprinkle generously with shredded mozzarella cheese.
  5. Melt the Cheese: Place the assembled subs on a baking sheet and put them under the broiler or in a hot oven until the mozzarella is melted and bubbly, about 3-5 minutes. Keep a close eye to prevent burning.
  6. Serve: Remove the subs from the oven and serve hot for a comforting and delicious meal perfect for busy weeknights.

Notes

  • You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
  • If using frozen meatballs, thaw them before browning for best results.
  • Feel free to add sliced peppers or onions to the skillet for extra flavor.
  • Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and buns to make this recipe gluten-free.
  • Leftover subs can be wrapped and refrigerated for up to 3 days; reheat before serving.
  • Author: Daisy
  • Prep Time: 25 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Sandwich
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Italian-American

Find it online: https://dishiary.com/easy-weeknight-meatball-sub-recipe/