Pin it
Dinner doesn't get much easier or yummier than these subs. Fresh meatballs or the kind from the freezer both work. Pile them on, let that cheese melt, and everybody's happy. Super fast to throw together—total comfort food.
Why You'll Love These Subs
If you're craving something cozy but not heavy, these are your answer. Just 330 calories each, so you can dig in without second thoughts. Pile up some salad or chips next to them and you're set for the night. Using pre-made meatballs cuts the time, or whip up your own if you're feeling it—either way is delicious.
Stuff You'll Need
- Mozzarella: Shredded works best
- Hot Dog Buns: Go with soft, sturdy ones
- Pasta Sauce: Any jar you like is good
- Oil: Needed for browning meatballs
- Meatballs: Make 24 from scratch or just use frozen
- Salt: Table salt will do fine
- Red Pepper Flakes: Only add if you want some heat
- Italian Seasoning: One blend, easy flavor
- Garlic: Fresh minced or powder both work
- Egg: Just one big one
- Breadcrumbs: Regular or panko is fine
- Ground Beef: Go lean, or swap for ground turkey
How to Build Your Subs
- Melt Cheese:
- Slide the subs under the broiler for 2-3 minutes and watch the cheese bubble. Don’t walk away so it doesn’t burn.
- Fill Buns:
- Pop three meatballs in each bun. Top them with all the sauce and a handful of cheese.
- Get Buns Ready:
- Set the broiler to high and put your buns up on a baking tray.
- Using Frozen Meatballs:
- Warm the sauce in your pan, drop in the frozen meatballs, cover, and let them simmer for about 25 minutes.
- Add Sauce:
- Pour your favorite sauce right over the cooked meatballs. Put on a lid and let ’em go for 15 minutes until juicy.
- Cook Meatballs:
- Get your oil hot in the pan then brown those meatballs all around.
- Mix Meatballs:
- Mix ground beef, breadcrumbs, eggs, garlic, seasoning, and salt together then shape into 24 balls.
Pin it
What Sets These Subs Apart
Nothing beats one of these after a long day. Clocking in at just 330 calories apiece, you won’t feel bad for eating the whole thing. Homemade or store-bought meatballs keep it easy and always turn out tasty. Seriously, everyone’s going to want more.
Simple and Tasty
You won’t need anything fancy to toss these together. Ground beef mixed with breadcrumbs, seasoning, egg, and a bit of garlic does the trick. Want some extra kick? Red pepper flakes! The gooey cheese on top ties it all up. Swap in provolone if you like switching things around.
Bringing It All Together
These subs really are a breeze. Brown your meatballs, then simmer them in the sauce to ramp up the flavor. Tuck them into fluffy buns, pile on the cheese, and pop them in until the cheese bubbles. That’s all—you’ll have sandwiches everyone wants in no time.
Satisfying Sides to Pair
You can keep it chill with salad or go classic with crunchy chips. Potato salad’s always a hit. Want to mix things up? Serve with fruit or a scoop of pasta salad—easy upgrades, no stress at all.
Storing Leftovers
Leftover meatballs and sauce? Stick them in an airtight container and keep them in the fridge for up to four days. When you’re hungry, heat the meatballs, put them in a fresh bun, add lots of cheese, and melt it. They'll taste brand new.
Pin it
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use frozen meatballs?
Absolutely! Frozen meatballs are a time-saver and taste great. Just simmer them in your sauce until they're hot, and you're set. A smart shortcut for busy nights without losing the flavor!
- → What pairs well with these?
A light Caesar salad is perfect if you want something fresh and crisp. Want more comfort food? Pair with toasted garlic bread or crispy baguettes.
- → Can I add more spice?
If you want extra kick, sprinkle red pepper flakes into the meatball mix before cooking. Or drizzle some spicy marinara or a touch of sriracha at the end for a fiery finish.
- → Are other cheeses okay?
Sure! Provolone gives a creamy melt, while Parmesan adds a sharper taste. Mozzarella works if you like mild flavors, or mix a few for something extra cheesy.
- → Can I prep these in advance?
Of course! You can make the meatballs and keep them in the fridge for up to three days. If you need more time, freeze them! Reheat with sauce, and top with cheese right before eating.
Conclusion
Love how these taste? Next time, try meatball soup for the same flavors in a comforting bowl. Want something extra? Go for baked parm meatballs. And don’t forget grilled skewers for those fun spice-packed bites!