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Simple Dinner:Easy Weeknight Meatball Sub Recipe

Simple Dinner:Easy Weeknight Meatball Sub Recipe

5.1 from 12 reviews

This Easy Weeknight Meatball Sub recipe is perfect for a simple and satisfying dinner. Featuring homemade or frozen meatballs simmered in marinara sauce, nestled in hot dog buns, and topped with melted mozzarella cheese, it’s a classic comfort food that’s quick to prepare and sure to please the whole family.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Meatballs

  • 1 pound ground beef (95% lean)
  • 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 1 large egg
  • 12 garlic cloves (minced)
  • 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt

Other Ingredients

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

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Meatballs: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, panko breadcrumbs, egg, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, and salt. Mix thoroughly and form into 24 evenly sized meatballs.
  2. Cook the Meatballs: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once shimmering, add the meatballs and brown them by turning every minute until evenly seared on all sides.
  3. Simmer in Sauce: Reduce heat to low, slowly pour in marinara sauce, cover skillet, and let cook for 15 minutes or until meatballs reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
  4. If Using Frozen Meatballs: Heat marinara sauce in a large skillet over medium heat until simmering, add frozen meatballs, cover, and cook on medium-low heat for about 25 minutes until heated through.
  5. Prepare the Buns: Position an oven rack 6 inches below the broiler and preheat the broiler. Place hot dog buns on a baking sheet and prepare for assembling.
  6. Assemble the Subs: Place 3 meatballs inside each bun, spoon marinara sauce over them, and sprinkle with shredded mozzarella cheese.
  7. Broil the Subs: Place the baking sheet under the broiler and cook for 2-3 minutes, until the cheese melts and bubbles. Watch carefully to prevent buns from burning.

Notes

  • You can make the meatballs in advance and freeze them for quick meals later.
  • Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to control the heat level.
  • For a healthier option, use whole wheat buns or low-fat cheese.
  • If you prefer, substitute ground turkey or chicken for beef.
  • Be sure to monitor under the broiler closely as cheese can burn quickly.

Nutrition

Keywords: meatball sub, easy meatball recipe, weeknight dinner, Italian sandwich, homemade meatballs, meatball sub sandwich