Cheesy Meatball Subs

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Hearty, cheesy, and downright comforting, Cheesy Meatball Subs are the ultimate indulgence when you’re craving something warm and saucy. Imagine tender meatballs nestled in a toasted sub roll, blanketed with marinara and a generous layer of melted mozzarella and parmesan. Whether it’s game day, a cozy night in, or you’re feeding a crowd, these subs are a guaranteed hit.

These sandwiches aren’t just about flavor—they’re about texture too. You get a golden, slightly crispy bread exterior, juicy meatballs, rich tomato sauce, and gooey cheese in every bite. Plus, they come together with minimal effort, especially if you have frozen meatballs or pre-cooked ones ready. Customize them with your favorite herbs or extra spice, and you’ve got a new household favorite.

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What Kind of Bread Works Best for Cheesy Meatball Subs?

To get the perfect balance of sturdy and soft, go for sub rolls, hoagie rolls, or even baguettes that are lightly toasted. These breads hold up beautifully against the saucy meatballs without falling apart, and their interior gets delightfully soft under the melted cheese. Avoid sandwich bread or overly airy buns, which can get soggy quickly.

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Ingredients for the Cheesy Meatball Subs

• Meatballs: Homemade or store-bought, beef or turkey, meatballs are the heart of this dish. Juicy and flavorful is the goal.
• Marinara Sauce: A good-quality marinara or homemade tomato sauce ties everything together with its tangy-sweet notes.
• Sub Rolls: You want rolls that can hold their shape and soak up sauce without becoming mushy.
• Mozzarella Cheese: For that melty, stringy goodness every meatball sub dreams of.
• Parmesan Cheese: Adds sharpness and a savory bite that complements the mozzarella.
• Butter (optional): Brushing the rolls with butter before toasting adds extra flavor.
• Garlic Powder or Fresh Garlic (optional): Boosts the savory notes and enhances the bread.
• Fresh Parsley or Basil: For garnish and a pop of color and freshness.

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How To Make the Cheesy Meatball Subs

Step 1: Warm the Meatballs and Sauce

Place your meatballs and marinara sauce in a saucepan over medium heat. Let them simmer together for about 10–15 minutes until the meatballs are heated through and have absorbed some of the sauce’s flavor.

Step 2: Prepare the Rolls

Slice your sub rolls lengthwise without cutting all the way through. If desired, brush the insides with melted butter and sprinkle with garlic powder. Toast the rolls under a broiler for 1–2 minutes until just golden and crisp.

Step 3: Assemble the Subs

Spoon 3–4 meatballs into each roll, followed by a generous scoop of the warm marinara. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella over the top of each sub, followed by grated parmesan for that extra cheesy layer.

Step 4: Broil to Melt the Cheese

Place the assembled subs back under the broiler for another 1–2 minutes, just until the cheese is melted and bubbling. Watch closely to avoid burning.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Remove from the oven, sprinkle chopped parsley or fresh basil over the top, and serve immediately while hot and cheesy.

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How to Serve and Store Cheesy Meatball Subs

Serve these subs hot and fresh out of the oven, ideally with a side of crispy fries, a green salad, or even a warm cup of soup for balance. They’re best eaten right away while the cheese is still melty and the bread is toasty.

If you have leftovers, separate the components. Store meatballs and sauce in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Rolls can be kept at room temperature in a bread bag or container. When ready to eat, reheat the meatballs and sauce, then assemble and broil just like the fresh version.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of meatballs should I use?

You can use any kind—beef, turkey, chicken, or plant-based. Homemade is always great, but frozen works perfectly too if you’re short on time.

Can I make these ahead of time?

Absolutely. Prepare the meatballs and sauce in advance, then store them separately until you’re ready to assemble and broil the subs.

How do I keep the bread from getting soggy?

Toasting the inside of the rolls before assembling creates a barrier that helps keep them from getting soggy. You can also serve the sauce on the side for dipping.

What cheese alternatives can I try?

Provolone, fontina, or even shredded cheddar can be used in place of mozzarella. Mix and match for your own cheesy blend.

Are these freezer-friendly?

The meatballs and sauce freeze beautifully. Store in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Just thaw and reheat before assembling.

Can I make these spicy?

Yes! Add crushed red pepper to your marinara, or slice up some pickled jalapeños and layer them in with the meatballs for a spicy twist.

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Want More Sandwich and Savory Comfort Food Ideas?

If these cheesy meatball subs hit the spot, you’ll love these other flavor-packed favorites from the blog:

• Try this cozy classic: Bowtie Pasta with Creamy Velveeta Beef Sauce
• Go bolder with the Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Ricotta Alfredo Pasta
• Need a fun dinner twist? Check out the Deep Hamburger Sausage Pepperoni Pie
• Looking for a pasta night winner? The Garlic Parmesan Beef Spaghetti Pasta is rich and satisfying.
• For comfort in a bowl, don’t miss the Creamy Shrimp Chowder

Save This Pin + Share Your Results

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time. You can find more easy and comforting meals on my Pinterest: Life with Nina.

Let me know in the comments how your subs turned out! Did you go extra cheesy? Add hot peppers? I love hearing how you put your own spin on it. Feel free to share your tips or ask questions—let’s keep the flavor conversation going.

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