Easy Weeknight Meatball Sub: A Delicious 30-Minute Recipe

Name: Easy Weeknight Meatball Sub
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb lean ground beef; 1 cup panko breadcrumbs; 1 large egg; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 2 cups marinara sauce; 4 hoagie rolls; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

By Jana Vergara

September 30, 2025

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Imagine sinking your teeth into a warm, crusty sub roll filled with juicy, savory meatballs, all drenched in marinara sauce and topped with gooey cheese. The aroma wafts through the air, instantly making you feel at home. This is what an Easy Weeknight Meatball Sub promises—comfort food at its finest that transforms any dull evening into a feast of flavor and joy.

Let’s face it; life can be hectic. After a long day of juggling responsibilities, the last thing anyone wants to do is spend hours in the kitchen. That’s where this recipe comes in! It’s quick, simple, and downright delicious, making it the perfect go-to option for those busy weeknights when you just want to kick back and enjoy a hearty meal.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This Easy Weeknight Meatball Sub is not only a time-saver but also a hit with both kids and adults alike
You can whip it up in under 30 minutes, making mealtime stress-free
The combination of flavors will have everyone asking for seconds
Plus, it’s versatile enough to customize based on what ingredients you have on hand

Ingredients for Easy Weeknight Meatball Sub

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Ground Beef: Use lean ground beef for juicy meatballs without excess grease. You can substitute with turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
Breadcrumbs: These add texture and help bind your meatballs together. Panko breadcrumbs work great for an extra crunch.
Eggs: One or two eggs help hold everything together while keeping the meatballs moist.
Garlic Powder: A sprinkle of garlic powder gives your meatballs that aromatic boost without having to chop fresh garlic.
Marinara Sauce: Choose your favorite jarred sauce or make your own if you’re feeling adventurous. It’s the star of the show!
Sub Rolls: Opt for fresh hoagie rolls or any sturdy bread that can hold all that deliciousness inside.
Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: Because what’s a meatball sub without melty cheese? Go for whole milk mozzarella for that creamy goodness.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Recipe preparation for Easy Weeknight Meatball Sub

How to Make Easy Weeknight Meatball Sub

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grab a baking sheet and line it with parchment paper or lightly grease it. This step ensures easy cleanup later because let’s be honest—nobody enjoys scrubbing burnt-on cheese off their pans!

Step 2: Mix Your Meatball Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, eggs, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Use your hands or a fork to mix until just combined. Avoid over-mixing; we want tender meatballs here—not hockey pucks!

Step 3: Shape Those Meatballs

With clean hands (because hygiene is essential), scoop out some of the mixture and form it into balls about the size of golf balls. Place them evenly spaced on your prepared baking sheet so they don’t end up as one giant meatball blob.

Step 4: Bake Those Bad Boys

Pop the baking sheet into your preheated oven and bake for about 20 minutes or until they are cooked through and browned on top. While they’re baking, let the anticipation build!

Step 5: Heat Up the Marinara

While those delightful meatballs are cooking away, pour marinara sauce into a saucepan over medium heat. Stir occasionally until warmed through—about five minutes should do it.

Step 6: Assemble Your Sub

Once the meatballs are ready (and you’ve resisted the urge to snack on them straight from the oven), grab your sub rolls. Place several meatballs inside each roll, spoon over marinara sauce generously, and then top with shredded mozzarella cheese.

Now here’s where things get exciting! Pop those assembled subs back in the oven just long enough to melt that cheesy goodness—around five minutes should suffice.

Transfer to plates and drizzle with sauce for the perfect finishing touch.

And there you have it! An Easy Weeknight Meatball Sub that’s not just filling but also fun to eat! So gather around the table with family or friends (or indulge solo while binge-watching your favorite show) and dig into this comforting creation!

Bon appétit!

You Must Know

This easy weeknight meatball sub recipe is your go-to for satisfying cravings without spending hours in the kitchen
With just a few ingredients, you can whip up a delicious meal that feels like a warm hug in sandwich form
Perfect for busy days and picky eaters!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by preparing the meatballs while preheating the oven. Bake them until golden brown, then simmer in marinara sauce while toasting the sub rolls. Assemble with cheese and broil for melty goodness. Efficient and delicious!

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap ground beef for turkey or plant-based alternatives. Experiment with spices like Italian seasoning or even a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat. Add sautéed veggies or olives for extra flavor!

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover meatball subs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave until warmed through, ensuring that the bread stays soft.

Chef's Helpful Tips

Use high-quality ground meat for juicy meatballs
Don’t skip browning; it adds depth of flavor
Choose fresh herbs over dried ones whenever possible for a brighter taste

It reminds me of that one chaotic Tuesday evening when I whipped these up after work. My kids devoured them and even asked for seconds, which never happens! It felt like winning a small culinary lottery that night.

FAQs:

What ingredients do I need for Easy Weeknight Meatball Sub?

To make an Easy Weeknight Meatball Sub, gather ingredients like ground beef or turkey, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic, onion, and Italian seasoning. You’ll also need marinara sauce and sub rolls. Shredded mozzarella cheese enhances the flavor. Feel free to customize with your favorite herbs and spices. This recipe is flexible; you can swap out the meat or add vegetables based on your preferences. The combination of these ingredients creates a delicious dish that the whole family will enjoy.

How long does it take to prepare Easy Weeknight Meatball Sub?

Preparation for the Easy Weeknight Meatball Sub takes about 15 minutes. Cooking the meatballs usually requires around 20-25 minutes in the oven or on the stovetop. In total, you should expect to spend roughly 40-45 minutes from start to finish. This makes it an ideal choice for busy weeknights when you want a home-cooked meal without spending hours in the kitchen. The quick preparation time allows you to enjoy a hearty dinner while still having time for other evening activities.

Can I make Easy Weeknight Meatball Sub ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare components of the Easy Weeknight Meatball Sub ahead of time. You can make the meatballs and store them in the refrigerator for up to two days before cooking. Alternatively, consider freezing cooked meatballs for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy your meal, simply reheat them in marinara sauce and assemble your subs with fresh rolls and cheese. This strategy saves time on busy evenings while still providing a warm, delicious meal.

What are some variations for Easy Weeknight Meatball Sub?

There are numerous ways to customize your Easy Weeknight Meatball Sub to fit your taste preferences. You can experiment with different meats like chicken or pork for unique flavors. Adding sautéed vegetables such as peppers and onions gives extra nutrition and texture. For a twist, try using barbecue sauce instead of marinara or adding spicy Italian sausage for heat. Additionally, switching out cheese types can also change the flavor profile significantly, making it versatile enough for anyone’s palate.

Conclusion for Easy Weeknight Meatball Sub:

In conclusion, the Easy Weeknight Meatball Sub is a fantastic option for busy families seeking a quick yet satisfying meal. With simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can create a delicious dish that brings everyone together at the dinner table. Remember that this recipe allows flexibility through ingredient substitutions and variations based on personal preference. Whether served with marinara sauce or loaded with veggies, this recipe ensures a delightful weeknight dining experience everyone will love.

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