Cheesy Meatball Subs are a delightful mix of tender meatballs, gooey melted cheese, and a soft sub roll that all come together in one tasty bite. This classic sandwich is packed with flavor—from the savory meatballs to the rich marinara sauce, it’s comfort food that’s hard to beat. The melted cheese on top adds that perfect creamy finish that makes each sub extra special.
I love making these for a weekend dinner when everyone’s hungry and looking for something satisfying but easy. One tip I always follow is to toast the buns just a little before assembling, so they hold up better against the saucy meatballs without getting soggy too fast. Plus, who doesn’t love that slight crunch on the outside of the bread?
Serving these cheesy meatball subs hot and fresh is the best way to enjoy them. I like to pair them with simple sides like crisp salad or some crunchy pickles to balance all the richness. Honestly, the smell alone when they’re coming out of the oven is enough to get the whole family gathered around the table before dinner even starts.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: Using ground beef gives the meatballs their classic flavor and a juicy texture. You can swap half or all for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
Breadcrumbs: Breadcrumbs help bind the meatballs and keep them soft. If you’re gluten-free, try gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed crackers.
Parmesan Cheese: This adds a nice salty tang. If you’re out of Parmesan, Pecorino Romano or even a mild cheddar can work.
Marinara Sauce: A great marinara sauce balances sweetness and acidity. Use store-bought for convenience or homemade if you want full control over flavor.
Sub Rolls: Soft and sturdy rolls hold the meatballs well. If you prefer, you can use hoagie buns, ciabatta, or even gluten-free rolls.
Cheese: Provolone and mozzarella melt beautifully. If you want a sharper taste, try fontina or Monterey Jack. Vegan cheese is also a good alternative here.
How Can You Keep Meatballs Tender and Not Dry?
Meatballs can easily become tough or dry if overworked or overcooked. Here’s my best approach to keep them juicy and tender:
- Mix ingredients gently just until combined—avoid overmixing to prevent dense meatballs.
- Add a little milk and breadcrumbs; they absorb moisture and help keep the meatballs soft.
- Use an egg to bind but don’t add too much liquid or the mixture will be too loose.
- Bake them at a high enough temperature (400°F / 200°C) so they cook through quickly and stay juicy.
- Simmer cooked meatballs gently in marinara sauce for a few minutes to soak up flavor and keep moisture in.
These steps give you meatballs that stay tender with a rich flavor perfect for your cheesy subs.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Baking sheet – perfect for cooking meatballs evenly in the oven without a mess.
- Mixing bowl – use this to combine your meatball ingredients easily by hand or spoon.
- Large skillet – great for warming marinara sauce and simmering meatballs together.
- Broiler or oven – to melt the cheese on top of your assembled subs quickly and nicely.
- Sharp knife – helps you split the sub rolls cleanly without squashing them.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Try ground turkey or chicken for lighter meatballs that still hold flavor well.
- Mix in chopped fresh basil or oregano into the meat mixture for an herby twist.
- Add sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers to the marinara for extra veggies and texture.
- Use spicy pepper jack cheese for a kick or swap provolone for a milder mozzarella if preferred.
Cheesy Meatball Subs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Meatballs:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 large egg
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 1/4 cup milk
For the Sauce:
- 2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
For Assembling:
- 4 sub rolls or hoagie buns
- 8 slices provolone or mozzarella cheese (about 2 slices per sandwich)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare, about 18 minutes to bake the meatballs, plus 5 minutes simmering and a few minutes to assemble and melt the cheese. Expect to spend around 35 to 40 minutes total from start to finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Meatballs:
In a large bowl, mix ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, chopped onion, garlic, egg, parsley, salt, pepper, oregano, and milk until just combined. Be careful not to overmix to keep the meatballs tender.
2. Form and Bake the Meatballs:
Shape the mixture into about 16 small meatballs, placing them on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15-18 minutes until browned and cooked through.
3. Warm the Sauce and Simmer Meatballs:
While the meatballs are baking, heat the marinara sauce in a large skillet over medium heat. When meatballs are done, add them to the sauce and simmer gently for about 5 minutes so they soak up the flavors.
4. Prepare the Rolls and Assemble:
Split the sub rolls open and optionally toast them under the broiler for 1-2 minutes until lightly golden. Place 4 meatballs with some sauce inside each roll. Top each meatball with slices of provolone or mozzarella cheese.
5. Melt the Cheese and Serve:
Place the assembled subs on a baking sheet and broil for 2-3 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Watch closely to avoid burning. Sprinkle with fresh parsley, then serve warm for the best experience.
Can I Use Frozen Meatballs for This Recipe?
Yes! Just thaw the frozen meatballs completely before adding them to the marinara sauce. Simmer them a bit longer in the sauce to warm through and absorb flavor.
What Can I Substitute for Provolone or Mozzarella Cheese?
You can use other melty cheeses like fontina, Monterey Jack, or even cheddar. For a spicy twist, try pepper jack. Vegan cheese works well if you want a dairy-free option.
How Should I Store Leftover Meatball Subs?
Wrap leftovers tightly in foil or store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through, adding a splash of sauce if needed to keep them moist.
Can I Make These Subs Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Prepare and bake the meatballs in advance and keep them refrigerated for up to 2 days. Assemble and broil the subs just before serving for the freshest, meltiest result.
