Description
These Mini Meatball Subs are the perfect bite-sized version of a classic favorite! Made with juicy meatballs, marinara sauce, and melted cheese, all tucked into soft mini sub rolls, these delicious sandwiches are perfect for lunch, dinner, or a fun appetizer. Quick to make and incredibly satisfying, they’re sure to be a hit with the whole family.
Ingredients
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For the meatballs:
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1 lb ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
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1/2 cup breadcrumbs (preferably Italian-style)
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1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
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1 egg
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1 tsp dried oregano
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1 tsp garlic powder
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1/2 tsp salt
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1/2 tsp pepper
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2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (optional)
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1/4 cup milk
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For assembling the subs:
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12 mini sub rolls or slider buns
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2 cups marinara sauce
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1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
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Fresh basil (optional, for garnish)
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Instructions
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Preheat the oven:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. -
Make the meatballs:
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, egg, oregano, garlic powder, salt, pepper, parsley, and milk. Mix everything together until just combined (don’t overmix to avoid tough meatballs).
Roll the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 to 1 1/2 inches in diameter, and place them on the prepared baking sheet. -
Bake the meatballs:
Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until they are cooked through and browned on the outside. -
Prepare the sauce:
While the meatballs are baking, heat the marinara sauce in a small saucepan over low heat. Once the meatballs are done, transfer them to the saucepan and gently toss them in the marinara sauce until fully coated. -
Assemble the mini subs:
Slice the mini sub rolls or slider buns in half, without cutting all the way through. Lightly toast the buns in the oven for 2-3 minutes, if desired, to make them crispy. -
Build the subs:
Place 2-3 meatballs into each sub roll. Spoon extra marinara sauce over the meatballs and top with a generous amount of shredded mozzarella cheese. -
Melt the cheese:
Return the subs to the oven and bake for an additional 5 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. -
Serve:
Remove the mini meatball subs from the oven, garnish with fresh basil if desired, and serve warm.
Notes
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Meatball Variations: Feel free to use ground turkey, chicken, or a plant-based meat substitute if you prefer.
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Make-Ahead: You can prepare the meatballs and sauce ahead of time. Store them in the fridge for up to 2 days, or freeze for longer storage. Assemble and bake the subs when ready to serve.
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Spice It Up: Add red pepper flakes to the marinara sauce or sprinkle over the meatballs for an extra kick of heat.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: mini sub
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 17g
- Cholesterol: 125mg