Description
These Easy Weeknight Meatball Subs combine juicy homemade or frozen meatballs simmered in savory marinara sauce, nestled in hot dog buns, and topped with melted mozzarella cheese. Perfect for a quick and satisfying dinner, they offer a comforting Italian-inspired meal ready in under an hour.
Ingredients
Meatballs
- 1 pound ground beef (95% lean)
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg
- 1-2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 24 meatballs, homemade or frozen
Other
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 8 hot dog buns
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions
- Prepare the Meatballs: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, panko breadcrumbs, egg, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, and salt. Mix thoroughly and form 24 equal-sized meatballs.
- Cook the Meatballs: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. When the oil shimmers, add the meatballs, turning every minute to brown evenly on all sides.
- Simmer in Marinara: Once browned, reduce heat to low, pour in marinara sauce slowly, then cover the skillet with a lid. Cook on medium-low heat for 15 minutes until meatballs reach an internal temperature of 160°F.
- For Frozen Meatballs: Instead of browning, heat marinara sauce in a large skillet over medium heat. Add frozen meatballs once sauce simmers, cover, and cook on medium-low for about 25 minutes until meatballs are heated through.
- Prepare the Buns: While meatballs cook, arrange hot dog buns on a baking sheet. Position the oven rack about 6 inches below the broiler and preheat the broiler.
- Assemble and Broil Subs: Place three meatballs inside each bun. Spoon additional marinara sauce over the meatballs and top generously with shredded mozzarella. Place the baking sheet under the broiler for 2-3 minutes, watching carefully, until the cheese melts and buns are lightly toasted.
Notes
- You can use store-bought frozen meatballs to save time without sacrificing flavor.
- Adjust red pepper flakes to your preferred spice level.
- Be careful when broiling to prevent buns from burning; keep an eye at all times.
- Meatballs can be cooked ahead and refrigerated for up to 2 days or frozen for longer storage.
- Serve with a side salad or chips for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Sandwiches
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
