Garlic Bread Meatball Subs are the ultimate comfort sandwich. Juicy meatballs simmered in rich marinara sauce are layered onto buttery garlic bread rolls and topped with melted cheese for a bold, satisfying meal. The crisp, golden bread contrasts beautifully with the tender meatballs and gooey cheese, making every bite deeply flavorful.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Garlic Bread Meatball Subs combine multiple comfort food favorites into one irresistible dish. The garlic butter base adds extra flavor beyond traditional meatball sandwiches.
They are easy to assemble and perfect for feeding a group. The recipe can use homemade or store-bought meatballs, making it convenient for busy schedules.
Another reason to love this recipe is its versatility. You can customize the cheese, adjust the seasoning, or even make them spicy with red pepper flakes.
Garlic Bread Meatball Subs: Cheesy, Saucy, and Packed with Flavor
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 subs
- Diet: Halal
Description
Hearty Garlic Bread Meatball Subs made with toasted garlic butter hoagie rolls, juicy meatballs simmered in marinara sauce, and topped with melted mozzarella cheese. A comforting and crowd-pleasing sandwich.
Ingredients
- 4 hoagie rolls
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried parsley
- 16 cooked meatballs
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Mix melted butter, minced garlic, and dried parsley.
- Slice hoagie rolls and brush inside with garlic butter mixture.
- Place rolls on a baking sheet and toast for 5-7 minutes until lightly golden.
- Meanwhile, heat olive oil in a saucepan and warm meatballs in marinara sauce until heated through.
- Fill each toasted roll with 4 meatballs and spoon extra marinara over top.
- Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan evenly over each sub.
- Bake for 8-10 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve hot.
Notes
- Use homemade or store-bought meatballs.
- Broil for 1-2 minutes for extra bubbly cheese.
- Add fresh basil for added flavor.
- Serve immediately for best texture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Sub rolls or hoagie buns
Provide the sturdy base for the sandwich.
Meatballs (beef or Italian-style)
Form the hearty protein filling.
Marinara sauce
Adds rich tomato flavor and moisture.
Unsalted butter (softened)
Used to create garlic bread base.
Garlic cloves (minced)
Infuse the bread with aromatic flavor.
Parsley (chopped)
Adds freshness to the garlic butter.
Mozzarella cheese (shredded)
Creates the signature melted topping.
Parmesan cheese (grated)
Adds sharp, savory depth.
Italian seasoning
Enhances the overall flavor profile.
Salt
Balances flavors.
Black pepper
Adds subtle warmth.
Directions
Preheat your oven to 190°C (375°F).
In a saucepan, heat the marinara sauce and add cooked meatballs. Simmer gently for 10–15 minutes until heated through.
In a small bowl, mix softened butter with minced garlic and chopped parsley.
Slice the sub rolls lengthwise without cutting completely through. Spread garlic butter generously on the inside of each roll.
Place the rolls on a baking sheet and toast in the oven for 5–7 minutes until lightly golden.
Spoon meatballs and sauce evenly into each toasted roll.
Top with shredded mozzarella and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.
Return the subs to the oven and bake for 8–10 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Remove from the oven, sprinkle with Italian seasoning, and serve warm.
Equipment needed :
Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling
Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:
Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.
Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.
large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.
Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.
Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.
Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.
Full-Size Blender – is a powerful kitchen appliance for making smoothies, soups, and sauces in large batches.
3-in-1 Air Fryer – This versatile 3-in-1 air fryer offers Air Fry for healthier meals with less oil, Bake for bakery-quality desserts and treats, and Reheat to bring leftovers back to life with crispy, flavorful results.
Servings and timing
This recipe yields approximately 4 subs.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Total time: About 30 minutes
Storage/reheating
Store leftover subs wrapped in foil in the refrigerator for up to three days.
Reheat in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for 8–10 minutes to maintain crispness.
Avoid microwaving, as it may soften the bread.
Freezing is possible without fresh herbs; wrap tightly and reheat in the oven.
Variations and Customizations
Garlic Bread Meatball Subs are easy to customize. For extra heat, add red pepper flakes to the sauce.
I have experimented with using provolone cheese instead of mozzarella, which created a slightly sharper flavor.
You can substitute turkey or chicken meatballs for a lighter option.
For added vegetables, include sautéed bell peppers or onions inside the sandwich.
If you prefer a crispier finish, broil briefly at the end of baking.
Nutrition and Dietary Info
Approximate values per sub (based on 4 servings):
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 720 kcal |
| Protein | 38 g |
| Carbohydrates | 55 g |
| Fat | 38 g |
| Saturated Fat | 16 g |
| Fiber | 4 g |
| Sugar | 8 g |
| Sodium | 1,050 mg |
Values may vary depending on ingredient brands and portion sizes.
Expert Tips & Customizations
Toast Bread First
Prevents sogginess and adds texture.
Simmer Meatballs Gently
Allows flavors to blend without drying.
Use Quality Sauce
A good marinara enhances the entire dish.
Serve Immediately
Best enjoyed hot with melted cheese.
FAQs
Can I use frozen meatballs?
Yes, cook them fully before adding to the sauce.
What cheese works best?
Mozzarella melts smoothly, but provolone also works well.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, assemble and bake just before serving.
How do I prevent soggy bread?
Toast the rolls before adding sauce.
Can I grill instead of bake?
Yes, wrap in foil and grill until heated through.
Are these freezer-friendly?
Yes, freeze assembled subs before final baking.
Conclusion
Garlic Bread Meatball Subs combine rich marinara, tender meatballs, and buttery garlic bread into one indulgent sandwich. Easy to prepare and perfect for sharing, they deliver bold flavors and satisfying texture. Whether for family dinners or casual gatherings, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.
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