Homemade Meatball Marinara Sub

If you’re anything like me, there’s something irresistible about a warm, toasty sandwich stuffed with juicy meatballs, rich marinara sauce, and melty, gooey cheese. When I see this Homemade Meatball Marinara Sub—or Sandwich, or Hoagie (whatever you prefer to call it)—my first thought is always: “Hello, Gorgeous.”

This sandwich is saucy, hearty, and full of bold, comforting Italian flavors. It hits every craving: savory, cheesy, and satisfyingly filling. Whether you’re making it for a cozy family dinner, game day, or meal prepping for the week, this sandwich never disappoints.

Even better? It’s freezer-friendly, easy to reheat, and endlessly customizable. Swap the meat to suit your needs, add extra veggies, or serve it open-faced with a side salad for a lighter twist. However you slice it, this sandwich is always a hit.

It’s no wonder it’s one of my family’s all-time favorite dishes or sandwiches, haha. We’re definitely a sandwich-loving household, and after years of tweaking and perfecting, this meatball recipe is one I’m proud to say is lip-smacking delicious and easy to make at home.

🧾 Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Perfectly seasoned meatballs – juicy, tender, and oven-baked
• Homemade marinara sauce – easy, flavorful, and freezer-friendly
• Versatile and customizable – use beef, pork, or a mix of both
• Family-friendly – great for weeknight dinners, parties, or meal pre

📸 Let’s Connect!

If you try this Homemade Meatball Marinara Sub, I’d love to see your version!
Tag me on Instagram @sandraseasycooking or jet social media, and use the hashtag #sandraseasycooking if you’d like so I can reshare your delicious creations!

Your support means the world to me. Thank you so much for cooking along with me and folling my cooking journey! 💕

📌 Save It for Later

This recipe is perfect for make-ahead meals. Just freeze the meatballs and sauce separately, then defrost, heat, and assemble when you need a quick, comforting meal

🧑‍🍳 More Sandwich & Sub Recipes You’ll Love:

TUNA SALAD WRAPS

ROASTED BEEF GRILLED CHEESE SANDWICH

ITALIAN SUB-INSPIRED SLIDERS

Check out all my Sandwich, Sliders & Wrap ideas →

Continue to Content

Yield: 6 sandwiches (about 3–4 meatballs per sub, depending on size)

Homemade Meatball Marinara Sub

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This Homemade Meatball Marinara Sub Sandwich is stuffed with juicy meatballs, homemade marinara, and melted cheese—comfort food at its best. Perfect for family dinners or make-ahead meals!

Prep Time 20 minutes

Cook Time 35 minutes

Additional Time 1 minute

Total Time 56 minutes

Ingredients

For the Meatballs:

• 1 lb ground beef (85/15 for best flavor)
• 1 lb ground pork (or use more beef if preferred)
• ½ medium onion, finely minced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 oz Parmigiano-Reggiano, grated
• ¼ cup fresh parsley, minced
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 3 tsp kosher salt
• 1 tsp freshly ground black pepper
• 2 large egg yolks
• ¼ cup plain breadcrumbs

For the Marinara Sauce (Homemade Version):

• 2 (15 oz) cans peeled, skinless tomatoes
• ½ tbsp Italian herb blend
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tbsp onion powder
• Salt to taste
• 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• ⅓ cup water

Instructions

Step 1: Make the Meatballs

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine all meatball ingredients. Mix thoroughly by hand (use gloves if preferred).
3. Lightly oil your hands and form meatballs (about 2 tablespoons each).
4. Arrange meatballs on a baking sheet and bake for 20–25 minutes, turning once for even browning.
5. Place cooked meatballs on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess fat.

💡 Tip: You don’t need to oil the pan—there’s enough fat in the meat to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Make the Marinara Sauce

1. In a saucepan over medium-high heat, combine all sauce ingredients.
2. Once hot, reduce to a simmer and cook covered for about 15 minutes.
3. Blend until smooth using a food processor or immersion blender.
4. Return to the pot and simmer uncovered for another 10 minutes, or until slightly thickened.

🍅 Shortcut: You can use your favorite jarred marinara sauce if you’re short on time. Just go for a high-quality brand!

Step 3: Simmer Meatballs in the Sauce

1. Add baked meatballs to the warm sauce.
2. Simmer on low for 15–20 minutes so the flavors meld.

🔥 This step infuses the meatballs with even more flavor—don't skip it!

🥖 Assembling the Meatball Sub

1. Toast your favorite sub rolls or sandwich bread.
2. Spoon in 3–4 meatballs with a generous scoop of marinara.
3. Top with shredded mozzarella or provolone cheese.

Optional: Broil for 2–3 minutes until the cheese melts and bubbles. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil.
🧀 Make it extra: Add sautéed onions or peppers for more flavor and texture.

Notes

Variations and Substitutes

• No Pork or you don't consume it? Use all beef with a slightly higher fat content (80/20 works great).
• Gluten-Free? Use GF breadcrumbs and gluten-free sandwich rolls.
• Low-Carb? Serve meatballs over zucchini noodles, use keto wrap or in a lettuce wrap.

Nutrition Information:

Yield:

6

Serving Size:

1
Amount Per Serving:Calories: 560Total Fat: 36gSaturated Fat: 13gTrans Fat: 1gUnsaturated Fat: 19gCholesterol: 239mgSodium: 1083mgCarbohydrates: 9gFiber: 1gSugar: 1gProtein: 46g

This data was provided and calculated by Nutritionix. Nutrition information isn’t always accurate, but we try our best.

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