After a long day, the last thing I want to do is spend hours in the kitchen. That’s why I’m excited to share my go-to recipe for an Easy Weeknight Meatball Sub. Just picture it: tender, homemade meatballs simmered in rich marinara, tucked into soft hot dog buns, and crowned with gooey mozzarella. It’s a dish that requires minimal effort but delivers maximum comfort!
You may have a busy schedule, but this recipe will quickly become your secret weapon for satisfying those cravings for hearty, homemade meals without the hassle of fast food. Plus, the blend of garlic and Italian herbs creates an irresistible aroma that will have your family flocking to the table. Whether you’re cooking for one or entertaining guests, these meatball subs are versatile enough to please everyone’s palate. Trust me, once you take that first bite, you’ll forget all about takeout. Let’s dive into this deliciously simple recipe that’s sure to become a weeknight favorite!
Why is this Easy Weeknight Meatball Sub a Must-Try?
Simplicity at its Finest: This recipe requires minimal preparation, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Flavor Explosion: The savory blend of garlic, Italian seasoning, and gooey mozzarella creates a satisfying taste that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Versatile Ingredients: Whether you have homemade or frozen meatballs on hand, this recipe easily adapts to what you have available.
Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings; everyone loves a classic meatball sub!
Time-Saving Delight: With quick cooking steps, you’ll have a hearty meal on the table in no time, freeing you up for more important things in your evening.
Easy Weeknight Meatball Sub Ingredients
For the Meatballs
- Ground beef – 1 pound – Choose lean ground beef for a satisfying texture without excessive grease.
- Panko breadcrumbs – ½ cup – These will give your meatballs a light and airy consistency.
- Large egg – 1 – Acts as a binder to keep your meatballs perfectly shaped.
- Minced garlic – 1-2 cloves – Fresh garlic adds a delightful flavor boost to the meat mixture.
- Italian seasoning – 1 tablespoon – A blend that infuses the meatballs with authentic Italian flavors.
- Red pepper flakes – ½ teaspoon – This will give your meatballs a gentle kick, perfect for those who love a bit of heat.
- Salt – ½ teaspoon – Enhances all the flavors; never skip the salt in a meatball mix!
For the Cooking
- Olive oil – 2 tablespoons – Use this to pan-fry the meatballs to golden perfection.
- Marinara sauce – 2 cups – Choose your favorite brand, or whip up a homemade batch for a richer taste.
For Serving
- Hot dog buns – 8 – Soft and sturdy, they’ll cradle your meatballs without falling apart.
- Mozzarella cheese – 1 ½ cups – Use shredded for easy melting and the gooey goodness that transforms these meatball subs into a crowd favorite.
Now you’re set with all the Easy Weeknight Meatball Sub ingredients to create a comforting meal! Grab your apron, and let’s get cooking!
How to Make Easy Weeknight Meatball Sub
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Mix Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, panko breadcrumbs, egg, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, and salt. Use your hands to mix gently until just combined, forming a beautiful, savory meat mixture.
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Form Meatballs: Shape the mixture into 1-inch meatballs, ensuring they are evenly sized for consistent cooking. You should have approximately 24 meatballs ready for the skillet!
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Cook Meatballs: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the meatballs and cook for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are browned and cooked through, reaching a delicious golden hue.
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Heat Marinara Sauce: While the meatballs are cooking, pour the marinara sauce into a separate pot and heat it over low heat, stirring occasionally to ensure it warms evenly.
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Simmer Meatballs: Once the meatballs are cooked, transfer them to the pot with the marinara sauce. Let them simmer together for 3-5 minutes, allowing the meatballs to soak up some of that rich, tomato flavor.
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Assemble Subs: Place the meatballs on the hot dog buns, generously spooning some marinara sauce on top. Finish with a hearty sprinkle of mozzarella cheese, making sure to cover those meatballs in gooey goodness.
Optional: Add fresh basil or parsley on top for a burst of color and flavor!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Easy Weeknight Meatball Subs are a fantastic option for meal prep! You can prepare the meatballs up to 24 hours in advance by mixing all the ingredients together and shaping them into balls. Just refrigerate them in an airtight container until you’re ready to cook. The marinara sauce can also be prepped ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply heat the olive oil in a skillet, cook the meatballs for about 8-10 minutes, warm the marinara sauce, combine, and assemble the subs. This way, you’ll enjoy the same delicious quality with minimal effort during your busy week!
How to Store and Freeze Easy Weeknight Meatball Sub
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave for a quick meal that’s just as delicious as the first serving.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze meatballs (without buns) in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy your Easy Weeknight Meatball Sub again, reheat the meatballs in marinara sauce on the stovetop or microwave until heated through, then assemble with fresh buns and cheese.
Bun Care: To prevent soggy buns, consider storing them separately at room temperature, and only assemble the subs when ready to serve for the best texture.
Expert Tips for Easy Weeknight Meatball Sub
Even Cooking: Ensure all meatballs are the same size for even cooking; uneven sizes can lead to one being overcooked while another is undercooked.
Golden Finish: To achieve perfectly browned meatballs, don’t overcrowd the skillet; this allows them to sear instead of steam.
Soft Buns: Toasting your hot dog buns lightly before filling them can add wonderful texture and prevent sogginess from the marinara sauce.
Season to Taste: Always taste your mix before shaping the meatballs. Adjust seasonings, like salt or red pepper flakes, to cater to your family’s preference.
Storage Solutions: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days, making the perfect quick meal for the next day!
What to Serve with Easy Weeknight Meatball Sub?
Elevate your meatball sub experience by pairing it with delightful sides and beverages that complement its savory flavors.
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Crispy French Fries: The golden crunch of fries provides a wonderful contrast to the tender meatballs, making every bite a crunchy delight.
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Garlic Bread: A classic, buttery garlic bread adds an aromatic touch, perfect for sopping up any leftover marinara sauce. Enjoy these warm, crispy slices alongside your meal.
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Fresh Garden Salad: A light, refreshing salad with crisp greens balances the richness of the meatball sub. Toss together your favorite veggies with a zesty vinaigrette for a burst of flavor.
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Roasted Vegetables: Colorful, caramelized veggies elevate your meal not only visually but also nutritionally, adding fiber to balance the meal and a hint of sweetness to complement the savory sub.
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Coleslaw: This cool, creamy slaw offers a delightful crunch and tang that contrasts beautifully with the warm, cheesy meatball sub, enhancing each bite.
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Chilled Lemonade: A refreshing, citrusy lemonade served alongside the meal quenches thirst while balancing the savory richness of the sub. Perfect to bring lightness to your dinner!
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Chocolate Chip Cookies: For a sweet finish, indulge in warm, homemade chocolate chip cookies that bring nostalgia and comfort to the meal, making it truly unforgettable.
Each pairing creates a well-rounded dining experience, ensuring your Easy Weeknight Meatball Sub dinner is both delicious and satisfying!
Easy Weeknight Meatball Sub Variations
Feel free to sprinkle a bit of creativity into your cooking with these delightful twists!
- Whole Wheat Buns: Swap out regular hot dog buns for whole wheat ones to add a nutty flavor and extra fiber.
- Zucchini Noodles: For a low-carb alternative, serve the meatballs over spiralized zucchini instead of buns. It’s a fresh, crunchy twist!
- Spicy Kick: Add an extra dash of red pepper flakes or some diced jalapeños to the meat mixture for a bold flavor.
- Herb Infusion: Mix in fresh herbs like chopped parsley or basil into the meatball mixture for an aromatic boost.
- Cheese Lovers: Experiment by adding cheese directly to the meat mixture. Blend in shredded Parmesan for extra flavor inside!
- Vegan Option: Substitute ground beef with lentils or a plant-based meat alternative, and use flax eggs instead of a chicken egg.
- Stuffed Meatballs: Create stuffed meatballs by placing a cube of mozzarella in the center of each meatball before cooking. The melty surprise inside is heavenly!
- BBQ Sauce Glaze: Instead of marinara, toss cooked meatballs in your favorite BBQ sauce for a sweet and tangy variation the whole family will love.
Each variation is a chance to make this recipe your own—don’t hesitate to have fun with it!
Easy Weeknight Meatball Sub Recipe FAQs
What type of ground beef should I use for the meatballs?
I recommend using lean ground beef for this Easy Weeknight Meatball Sub recipe. Lean beef will provide a satisfying texture without excessive fat, allowing your meatballs to remain juicy and flavorful without becoming greasy.
How should I store leftover meatball subs?
Store any leftover meatball subs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Gently reheat them in the microwave when you’re ready for a quick meal. Just be cautious, as microwave reheating may make the buns slightly chewy!
Can I freeze the meatballs?
Absolutely! To freeze the meatballs, start by cooking them as per the recipe instructions. Once they cool, line them on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until solid. After they’re frozen, transfer the meatballs to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge when you’re ready to enjoy them again.
What should I do if my meatballs are falling apart?
If your meatballs are falling apart, it might be due to too much moisture in the mixture or not enough binding agents. To fix this, try adding a bit more panko breadcrumbs or letting the mixture sit for a few minutes to absorb moisture. It’s also essential to ensure you’re not overcrowding the skillet while cooking, as that can lead to steaming instead of browning.
Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Yes! If you’re cooking for someone with dietary allergies or restrictions, you can substitute several ingredients. Try using gluten-free breadcrumbs instead of panko for a gluten-free option, and choose a dairy-free cheese if necessary. Always check labels to ensure all ingredients fit specific dietary needs.
Savory Easy Weeknight Meatball Sub Recipe for Cozy Nights
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, panko breadcrumbs, egg, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, and salt. Use your hands to mix gently until just combined, forming a beautiful, savory meat mixture.
- Shape the mixture into 1-inch meatballs, ensuring they are evenly sized for consistent cooking. You should have approximately 24 meatballs ready for the skillet!
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the meatballs and cook for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are browned and cooked through, reaching a delicious golden hue.
- While the meatballs are cooking, pour the marinara sauce into a separate pot and heat it over low heat, stirring occasionally to ensure it warms evenly.
- Once the meatballs are cooked, transfer them to the pot with the marinara sauce. Let them simmer together for 3-5 minutes, allowing the meatballs to soak up some of that rich, tomato flavor.
- Place the meatballs on the hot dog buns, generously spooning some marinara sauce on top. Finish with a hearty sprinkle of mozzarella cheese, making sure to cover those meatballs in gooey goodness.