7 Irresistible Meatball Sub Recipes: A Delicious Sandwich Adventure

“Meatball Sub: A Perfectly Meaty and Delicious Sandwich for Any Hunger”

Meatball subs are a classic comfort food that never fails to satisfy our taste buds. These mouthwatering sandwiches are a perfect combination of juicy meatballs, savory marinara sauce, and gooey melted cheese, all nestled within a warm and crusty sub roll. Whether you’re a fan of traditional flavors or looking to explore exciting new twists, this article presents 7 irresistible meatball sub recipes that will take your sandwich game to the next level.

Classic Italian Meatball Sub: A Timeless Favorite

The Classic Italian Meatball Sub is a beloved favorite that captures the essence of Italy’s rich culinary heritage. Tender beef and pork meatballs are seasoned with a blend of Italian herbs and spices, then simmered in a flavorful marinara sauce before being tucked into a soft sub roll and topped with melted mozzarella cheese.

Ingredients

For the meatballs:

1 pound ground beef
1/2 pound ground pork
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup milk
1 large egg
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon dried basil
Salt and pepper to taste

For the marinara sauce:

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon dried basil
Salt and pepper to taste

For assembling the sub:

4 to 6 sub rolls
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, milk, egg, minced garlic, chopped parsley, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Mix until all the ingredients are well incorporated.
Step 3: Shape the meat mixture into golf ball-sized meatballs and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Step 4: Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes, or until they are cooked through and lightly browned.
Step 5: While the meatballs are baking, prepare the marinara sauce. In a saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until they are softened and aromatic.
Step 6: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Bring the sauce to a simmer and let it cook for about 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Step 7: Once the meatballs are done baking, transfer them to the simmering marinara sauce and let them cook for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the meatballs to absorb the flavors of the sauce.
Step 8: To assemble the meatball subs, slice the sub rolls lengthwise, leaving one edge intact to hold the fillings. Place a layer of meatballs on the bottom half of each sub roll.
Step 9: Spoon some extra marinara sauce over the meatballs, and sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese on top.
Step 10: Place the subs on a baking sheet and broil them in the oven for a few minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 11: Garnish the meatball subs with fresh basil leaves, and serve them hot. This Classic Italian Meatball Sub is a timeless favorite that brings the taste of Italy right to your table.

BBQ Meatball Sub: A Tangy Twist

The BBQ Meatball Sub adds a tangy and smoky twist to the classic sandwich. Succulent meatballs are smothered in a luscious barbecue sauce, complemented by the sweetness of caramelized onions and the crunch of pickles.

Ingredients

For the meatballs:

1 pound ground beef
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup milk
1 large egg
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
1 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste

For the BBQ sauce:

1 cup ketchup
1/4 cup brown sugar
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
Salt and pepper to taste

For assembling the sub:

4 to 6 sub rolls
1 large onion, thinly sliced
1 tablespoon olive oil
Dill pickle slices
Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, milk, egg, minced garlic, chopped parsley, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix until all the ingredients are well incorporated.
Step 3: Shape the meat mixture into golf ball-sized meatballs and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Step 4: Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes, or until they are cooked through and lightly browned.
Step 5: While the meatballs are baking, prepare the BBQ sauce. In a saucepan, combine the ketchup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Heat the sauce over medium heat, stirring until the sugar is dissolved and the sauce is smooth.
Step 6: In a separate skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced onions and cook them until they are caramelized and golden brown.
Step 7: Once the meatballs are done baking, transfer them to a bowl and toss them with the BBQ sauce until they are well coated.
Step 8: To assemble the BBQ meatball subs, slice the sub rolls lengthwise and place a layer of meatballs on the bottom half of each sub roll.
Step 9: Spoon some extra BBQ sauce over the meatballs, and top with caramelized onions and dill pickle slices.
Step 10: Place the subs on a baking sheet and broil them in the oven for a few minutes, until the toppings are heated through.
Step 11: Garnish the BBQ meatball subs with fresh cilantro leaves, and serve them hot. This BBQ Meatball Sub is a delicious twist on the classic sandwich, adding a tangy and smoky flavor that will delight your taste buds.

Spicy Jalapeño Meatball Sub: For the Heat Seekers

If you crave spicy flavors, the Spicy Jalapeño Meatball Sub is the perfect choice. Fiery jalapeños are mixed into the meatballs, and a zesty sriracha mayo adds an extra kick to the sandwich.

Ingredients

For the meatballs:

1 pound ground beef
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup milk
1 large egg
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 jalapeños, seeded and finely chopped
1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1/2 teaspoon chili powder
Salt and pepper to taste

For the sriracha mayo:

1/2 cup mayonnaise
1 to 2 tablespoons sriracha sauce (adjust to desired spiciness)
1 tablespoon lime juice
Salt and pepper to taste

For assembling the sub:

4 to 6 sub rolls
Sliced red onion
Sliced cucumber
Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, milk, egg, minced garlic, chopped jalapeños, chopped cilantro, ground cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until all the ingredients are well incorporated.
Step 3: Shape the meat mixture into golf ball-sized meatballs and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Step 4: Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes, or until they are cooked through and lightly browned.
Step 5: While the meatballs are baking, prepare the sriracha mayo. In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, sriracha sauce, lime juice, salt, and pepper. Adjust the amount of sriracha sauce to your desired level of spiciness.
Step 6: To assemble the spicy jalapeño meatball subs, slice the sub rolls lengthwise and spread a generous amount of sriracha mayo on the bottom half of each roll.
Step 7: Place a layer of meatballs on top of the mayo, and add sliced red onion and cucumber for extra crunch and flavor.
Step 8: Place the subs on a baking sheet and broil them in the oven for a few minutes, until the toppings are heated through.
Step 9: Garnish the spicy jalapeño meatball subs with fresh cilantro leaves, and serve them hot. This sandwich is a spicy delight that will surely satisfy the heat seekers among you.

Turkey Meatball Sub: A Healthier Alternative

For those looking for a healthier alternative, the Turkey Meatball Sub is a wonderful option. Lean ground turkey is used to make tender and flavorful meatballs, and a light and zesty tomato-basil sauce adds a burst of freshness to the sandwich.

Ingredients

For the meatballs:

1 pound ground turkey
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup milk
1 large egg
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste

For the tomato-basil sauce:

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil
Salt and pepper to taste

For assembling the sub:

4 to 6 sub rolls
Fresh baby spinach leaves
Sliced bell peppers (red and green)
Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground turkey, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, milk, egg, minced garlic, chopped fresh basil, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix until all the ingredients are well incorporated.
Step 3: Shape the turkey mixture into golf ball-sized meatballs and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Step 4: Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes, or until they are cooked through and lightly browned.
Step 5: While the meatballs are baking, prepare the tomato-basil sauce. In a saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until they are softened and aromatic.
Step 6: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, chopped basil, salt, and pepper. Bring the sauce to a simmer and let it cook for about 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Step 7: To assemble the turkey meatball subs, slice the sub rolls lengthwise and place a layer of meatballs on the bottom half of each roll.
Step 8: Spoon some tomato-basil sauce over the meatballs, and add a handful of fresh baby spinach leaves and sliced bell peppers for extra nutrition and color.
Step 9: Place the subs on a baking sheet and broil them in the oven for a few minutes, until the toppings are heated through.
Step 10: Garnish the turkey meatball subs with fresh basil leaves, and serve them hot. This healthy and delicious sandwich is a guilt-free treat that will leave you satisfied and nourished.

Swedish Meatball Sub: A Taste of Scandinavia

The Swedish Meatball Sub brings the flavors of Scandinavia to your plate. These tender meatballs are made with a mix of ground beef and pork, seasoned with warm spices, and smothered in a creamy and savory gravy.

Ingredients

For the meatballs:

1/2 pound ground beef
1/2 pound ground pork
1/4 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup milk
1 large egg
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon ground allspice
1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
Salt and pepper to taste

For the gravy:

2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups beef broth
1/2 cup heavy cream
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
Salt and pepper to taste

For assembling the sub:

4 to 6 sub rolls
Lingonberry jam (optional, for a traditional Swedish touch)
Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, chopped onion, minced garlic, ground nutmeg, ground allspice, ground cardamom, salt, and pepper. Mix until all the ingredients are well incorporated.
Step 3: Shape the meat mixture into golf ball-sized meatballs and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Step 4: Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes, or until they are cooked through and lightly browned.
Step 5: While the meatballs are baking, prepare the gravy. In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the all-purpose flour and cook, stirring constantly, for about 1 to 2 minutes to make a roux.
Step 6: Gradually whisk in the beef broth, making sure to dissolve any lumps. Stir in the heavy cream, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
Step 7: Bring the gravy to a simmer and let it cook for about 5 minutes, until it thickens and becomes smooth and creamy.
Step 8: To assemble the Swedish meatball subs, slice the sub rolls lengthwise and place a layer of meatballs on the bottom half of each roll.
Step 9: Spoon the creamy gravy over the meatballs, and for a traditional Swedish touch, add a dollop of lingonberry jam on top of the gravy.
Step 10: Place the subs on a baking sheet and broil them in the oven for a few minutes, until the toppings are heated through.
Step 11: Garnish the Swedish meatball subs with fresh parsley, and serve them hot. This sandwich is a delicious taste of Scandinavia that will transport you to the charming streets of Stockholm.

Buffalo Chicken Meatball Sub: For the Spice Lovers

The Buffalo Chicken Meatball Sub is a fiery and flavorful sandwich that brings the heat with every bite. Spicy chicken meatballs are coated in zesty buffalo sauce, balanced with creamy blue cheese dressing and crunchy coleslaw.

Ingredients

For the meatballs:

1 pound ground chicken
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup milk
1 large egg
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried parsley
1 teaspoon dried dill
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste

For the buffalo sauce:

1/2 cup hot sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
1 tablespoon honey
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder

For assembling the sub:

4 to 6 sub rolls
Blue cheese dressing
Coleslaw (store-bought or homemade)
Fresh chives for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, milk, egg, minced garlic, dried parsley, dried dill, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until all the ingredients are well incorporated.
Step 3: Shape the chicken mixture into golf ball-sized meatballs and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Step 4: Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes, or until they are cooked through and lightly browned.
Step 5: While the meatballs are baking, prepare the buffalo sauce. In a bowl, whisk together the hot sauce, melted butter, honey, apple cider vinegar, and garlic powder.
Step 6: Once the meatballs are done baking, transfer them to a bowl and toss them with the buffalo sauce until they are well coated.
Step 7: To assemble the buffalo chicken meatball subs, slice the sub rolls lengthwise and spread a layer of blue cheese dressing on the bottom half of each roll.
Step 8: Place a layer of buffalo chicken meatballs on top of the dressing, and add a generous amount of coleslaw for a refreshing crunch.
Step 9: Place the subs on a baking sheet and broil them in the oven for a few minutes, until the toppings are heated through.
Step 10: Garnish the buffalo chicken meatball subs with fresh chives, and serve them hot. This sandwich is a delightful explosion of spice and flavor that will awaken your taste buds.

Vegetarian Lentil Meatball Sub: A Wholesome Delight

For the vegetarians and veggie lovers, the Lentil Meatball Sub offers a wholesome and satisfying alternative. Nutty lentil meatballs are infused with Mediterranean flavors and accompanied by a vibrant roasted red pepper sauce.

Ingredients

For the lentil meatballs:

1 cup cooked lentils (brown or green)
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup finely chopped walnuts
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
1/4 teaspoon ground paprika
Salt and pepper to taste

For the roasted red pepper sauce:

2 large red bell peppers
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (14 ounces) diced tomatoes
1 teaspoon dried basil
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste

For assembling the sub:

4 to 6 sub rolls
Arugula leaves
Sliced cucumber
Crumbled feta cheese for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
Step 2: To make the lentil meatballs, combine the cooked lentils, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped walnuts, chopped parsley, minced garlic, dried oregano, ground cumin, ground paprika, salt, and pepper in a food processor. Pulse the mixture until it forms a coarse paste.
Step 3: Shape the lentil mixture into golf ball-sized meatballs and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Step 4: Bake the lentil meatballs in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes, or until they are firm and lightly browned.
Step 5: While the meatballs are baking, prepare the roasted red pepper sauce. Preheat the broiler in your oven.
Step 6: Cut the red bell peppers in half and remove the seeds and stems. Place the pepper halves on a baking sheet, skin side up.
Step 7: Broil the peppers in the oven until their skins are charred and blistered, about 5 to 7 minutes.
Step 8: Remove the peppers from the oven and place them in a sealed plastic bag or a covered bowl. Let them steam for about 10 minutes to loosen the skins.
Step 9: Peel off the charred skins from the peppers and discard them. Chop the roasted red peppers into small pieces.
Step 10: In a saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until they are softened and aromatic.
Step 11: Stir in the diced tomatoes, chopped roasted red peppers, dried basil, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Simmer the sauce for about 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Step 12: To assemble the vegetarian lentil meatball subs, slice the sub rolls lengthwise and place a layer of lentil meatballs on the bottom half of each roll.
Step 13: Spoon the roasted red pepper sauce over the meatballs, and add a handful of fresh arugula leaves and sliced cucumber for extra freshness.
Step 14: Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese on top of the subs for a tangy and savory finishing touch.
Step 15: Place the subs on a baking sheet and broil them in the oven for a few minutes, until the toppings are heated through.
Step 16: Serve the vegetarian lentil meatball subs hot, and savor the wholesome and delightful flavors of this satisfying sandwich.

There you have it – 7 tantalizing meatball sub recipes that will elevate your sandwich experience to new heights. Whether you prefer classic Italian flavors, crave a fiery kick, or are seeking a healthier and vegetarian option, these recipes cater to every taste. From the spicy Buffalo Chicken Meatball Sub to the wholesome Vegetarian Lentil Meatball Sub, each creation offers a unique and mouthwatering taste adventure.

Experiment with different ingredients and add your own personal touch to these recipes to make them your own. Whether you’re cooking for a family meal or preparing a satisfying lunch, these meatball subs will surely become a new favorite on your menu. Click here and here to see another recipes. So, gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and let the aroma of deliciousness fill your kitchen as you embark on this delightful sandwich adventure!