Subway Meatball Marinara Sub Recipe

A good Meatball Marinara Sub needs two things: tender meatballs and a sauce that clings to every bite!

For this Subway copycat, I go for a mix of beef and pork in my meatballs—it keeps them juicy and packed with flavor.

Simmering the meatballs in the sauce is a must. It helps them soak up all that rich tomato goodness while staying tender.

A soft sub roll that can hold up to the sauce without getting soggy is the way to go.

Topping it off with a generous layer of mozzarella and toasting it for a slight crisp makes it even better!

How to Make Subway Meatball Marinara Sub

Ingredients

• 1 lb Ground Beef
• 1/2 cup Breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup Parmesan Cheese (grated)
• 1 tsp Garlic Powder
• 1 tsp Onion Powder
• 1 tsp Dried Oregano
• 1 Egg
• 1 jar Marinara Sauce (24 oz.)
• 4 slices Provolone Cheese
• 4 Sub Rolls

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1:

Mix ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, and egg in a large bowl.

Combine everything well to form the meatball mixture.

Step 2:

Shape the mixture into balls, about 1 inch in size.

Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Step 3:

Bake the meatballs at 375°F until cooked, which should take about 15-20 minutes.

Make sure to turn them once halfway through the cooking time.

Step 4:

Heat marinara sauce in a large saucepan over medium heat.

Add cooked meatballs to the sauce, letting them simmer for 10 minutes to absorb the flavors.

Step 5:

Place meatballs on sub rolls, topping them with sliced provolone cheese.

Toast the sandwiches in the oven until the cheese melts.

Tips and Tricks for Making This Recipe

Tip for Perfect Meatballs:

Make sure to mix the ingredients thoroughly, so the meatballs hold together well and cook evenly.

Rolling them gently between your hands can also help them form smoothly without cracking.

Sauce Consistency Matters:

When simmering the meatballs in the sauce, keep an eye on the consistency.

If the sauce becomes too thick, add a little water to maintain a smooth texture.

Keep It Authentic with Fresh Bread:

Using fresh sub rolls can make a big difference in your final sandwich.

You can lightly toast them before adding the meatballs for a little crunch.

Cheese Variation:

If you want to experiment with different flavors, try using mozzarella or even a spicy pepper jack cheese for a kick.

Adjust according to your taste preference, and you might find a new favorite.

Easy Cleanup:

Lining your baking sheet with parchment paper can make cleanup a breeze, especially when dealing with sticky meatballs.

What to Serve with Subway Meatball Marinara Sub

Classic Side Salad

A fresh side salad is the perfect companion to your meatball marinara sub.

You can throw together a mix of crisp lettuce, juicy tomatoes, and cucumbers with a simple vinaigrette dressing.

This light option balances the richness of the marinara!

Garlic Breadsticks

Why not double up on the bread and go for garlic breadsticks?

The warm, buttery goodness pairs wonderfully with the flavors of the meatball sub.

A classic choice that never disappoints.

Sweet Potato Fries

Sweet potato fries are a nice twist on regular fries.

They bring a subtle sweetness and crunchy texture that contrast well with the savory sub.

Plus, they’re simple to make at home!

Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Roasted Brussels sprouts may not be the first side dish you think of.

They have a nutty flavor and crispy edges that match the robustness of the marinara sauce.

Try tossing them with some balsamic glaze.

Creamy Coleslaw

A scoop of creamy coleslaw adds a refreshing crunch alongside your meatball sandwich.

The tanginess of coleslaw melds beautifully with the tomato sauce and cheese.

It’s a traditional side that works in harmony with the main dish.

Caprese Salad Skewers

Caprese salad skewers offer a fresh, vibrant option.

Mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic reduction create a pleasing contrast to the hearty sub.

They’re easy to prepare and great for a colorful addition.

Variations and Substitutions

Cheese Options

You can switch out the cheese to suit your preferences.

Try using mozzarella, provolone, or Monterey Jack for a different flavor profile.

These cheeses melt beautifully and complement the marinara sauce.

Meat Alternatives

For a twist on the traditional recipe, opt for turkey or chicken meatballs.

They are lighter and can add a unique flavor to your sub.

Vegetarian options like eggplant or lentil balls can also be a tasty substitute if you’re cutting back on meat.

Sauce Variations

Add a spicy twist with a sprinkle of red pepper flakes in your marinara sauce.

Or, mix in a spoonful of pesto for an herbaceous touch.

Different sauces can introduce bold and exciting flavors!

Bread Varieties

Experiment with different types of bread like ciabatta, sourdough, or even a hearty multigrain roll.

Each choice offers a different texture and taste.

How to Store Leftover Subway Meatball Marinara Sub

Storing leftover meatball subs can greatly impact their taste for future enjoyment.

Separate Components

To keep everything fresh, I recommend storing the meatballs, sauce, and bread separately.

Wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap to keep it from becoming hard and stale.

The sauce and meatballs should be placed in an airtight container in the refrigerator, which keeps them fresh for up to four days.

Opt for Airtight Containers

Choose an appropriate airtight container for the sauce and meatballs.

These containers help maintain the moisture and flavor of the sauce and meatballs.

Properly sealing each component prevents odor transfer and extends freshness.

Freezing Options

For longer storage, consider freezing the sauce and meatballs separately.

Transfer them into individual freezer bags or containers to prevent freezer burn.

Frozen meatballs and sauce can last for up to three months, making future preparation easy and stress-free!

By organizing your leftovers this way, your next meatball sub will be just as good!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Choosing the Wrong Bread

Always opt for a sturdy bread roll to prevent your sandwich from becoming soggy.

Avoid rolls that are too soft, as they may not hold up well with the sauce and meatballs.

A crispy hoagie or a French baguette is a solid choice!

Overcooking the Meatballs

Cooking meatballs just right keeps them tender and juicy.

Overcooking can lead to dry and tough meatballs, something you definitely don’t want.

Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness, aiming for an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).

Skimping on the Sauce

Generously coat the meatballs in marinara sauce to enhance the sandwich’s flavors.

A skimpy amount of sauce will result in less flavor.

Remember, the sauce should pair perfectly with every bite, making it all the more enjoyable!