Oven-Baked Meatball Subs

Crusty hoagie rolls loaded with juicy marinara-simmered meatballs, topped with a generous layer of melted mozzarella and Parmesan—these Oven-Baked Meatball Subs are the ultimate comfort food. Golden, cheesy, and satisfyingly hearty, they’re a guaranteed crowd-pleaser perfect for game days, casual dinners, or weekend indulgence.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These subs combine everything you love about a meatball sandwich in a mess-free, oven-baked version that’s crisp on the outside and melty on the inside. With the convenience of pre-cooked meatballs and store-bought marinara, this recipe is easy to prepare and ideal for busy nights. It’s a family-friendly favorite that’s also great for feeding a crowd.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

12 pre-cooked meatballs (homemade or store-bought)
1 1/2 cups marinara sauce
4 hoagie rolls or sub buns
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Optional: chopped parsley or basil for garnish

directions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a large baking dish.
2. In a skillet over medium heat, warm the marinara sauce and add the meatballs. Simmer for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the meatballs are heated through and evenly coated in sauce.
3. Slice each hoagie roll lengthwise, keeping one side intact to hold the shape. Gently open the rolls and place them in the prepared baking dish.
4. Spoon 3 marinara-coated meatballs into each roll, adding extra sauce if desired.
5. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan evenly over the meatballs.
6. Add a pinch of Italian seasoning to each sub and lightly drizzle the tops with olive oil.
7. Bake uncovered for 15–18 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden.
8. Remove from the oven, garnish with chopped parsley or basil if using, and serve hot.

Servings and timing

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: Approximately 520 kcal per sub (varies based on meatballs and rolls used)

Variations

• Spicy: Use spicy Italian sausage meatballs or add crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce.
• Cheese Blend: Add provolone or fontina for extra melt and depth.
• Vegetarian: Use plant-based meatballs and cheese for a meatless option.
• Garlic Bread Style: Brush the rolls with garlic butter before baking for extra flavor.
• Mini Subs: Make with slider buns or dinner rolls for party-friendly servings.

storage/reheating

Wrap leftovers tightly in foil and refrigerate for up to 2 days. To reheat, place in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10–12 minutes or until warmed through. For best results, reheat uncovered to restore the crispness of the bread. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the bread soggy.

FAQs

Can I make these ahead of time?

You can assemble the subs (excluding the baking step) a few hours in advance. Cover and refrigerate, then bake just before serving.

What kind of meatballs work best?

Beef, pork, turkey, chicken, or plant-based meatballs all work well. Choose based on your dietary preference.

Can I use homemade marinara?

Yes, a homemade sauce will enhance the flavor. Just make sure it’s thick enough to stay in the sandwich.

Do I need to toast the buns beforehand?

No, baking them with the filling crisps the outside while keeping the inside soft and flavorful.

How do I prevent soggy bottoms?

Use crusty hoagie rolls and avoid overloading with sauce. A preheated baking dish also helps.

Can I freeze baked meatball subs?

It’s not recommended, as the bread texture can suffer. Instead, freeze the meatballs and sauce, and assemble fresh when ready.

What sides go well with these?

Serve with a simple salad, coleslaw, roasted vegetables, or oven fries.

Can I use sliced cheese instead of shredded?

Yes, provolone or mozzarella slices work well and melt evenly over the meatballs.

How do I serve these at a party?

Slice each sub into thirds for mini sandwiches and serve on a tray with toothpicks for easy grabbing.

Are these kid-friendly?

Absolutely—just use mild marinara and meatballs, and they’ll be a hit with children.

Conclusion

Oven-Baked Meatball Subs deliver a satisfying blend of tender meatballs, rich marinara, and gooey cheese inside crusty rolls—all baked to perfection. They’re easy to make, full of bold Italian flavor, and customizable to suit any crowd. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a casual get-together, these subs are guaranteed to please.

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