Stuffed Cheese Meatball Subs (Print View)

Mozzarella-filled meatballs with marinara, nestled in golden toasted rolls for satisfying cheesy subs.

# Components:

→ For the Meatballs

01 - 1 pound ground beef
02 - 1/2 pound ground pork
03 - 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
04 - 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
05 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
06 - 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
07 - 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
08 - 1 large egg
09 - 1/4 cup milk
10 - 1 teaspoon salt
11 - 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

→ For Stuffing

12 - 4 ounces mozzarella cheese, cut into twelve 3/4-inch cubes

→ For the Sauce

13 - 2 cups marinara sauce

→ For the Subs

14 - 4 sub rolls, about 6 inches each
15 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
16 - 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
17 - 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
18 - Fresh basil leaves, optional, for garnish

# Directions:

01 - Preheat oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
02 - In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, parsley, oregano, egg, milk, salt, and black pepper. Mix gently until ingredients are just combined.
03 - Divide the meat mixture into twelve portions. Flatten each in your palm, place a cube of mozzarella in the center, wrap meat around the cheese, and shape into a ball. Place meatballs on the prepared baking sheet.
04 - Bake meatballs for 15 minutes until browned on the outside.
05 - Heat marinara sauce in a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat. Transfer baked meatballs to the sauce, cover, and simmer for 10 minutes until cooked through and cheese is melted.
06 - While meatballs simmer, split each sub roll lengthwise without cutting through. Mix softened butter and garlic powder; spread evenly inside each roll. Toast under broiler for 2 to 3 minutes until lightly golden.
07 - Fill each toasted roll with three stuffed meatballs and spoon additional marinara sauce over the top. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella over the meatballs and sauce.
08 - Return assembled subs to the broiler for 2 to 3 minutes until cheese is bubbly and melted. Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired. Serve immediately.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Relies on everyday easy-to-find ingredients
  • Satisfies that craving for rich melty meaty flavors
  • Customizable with different proteins and toppings
  • Just right for feeding a hungry group
02 -
  • Packed with protein thanks to the combo of beef and pork
  • Subs freeze beautifully before final broiling for make-ahead ease
  • Popular with kids and grownups alike because of the melty cheese surprise
03 -
  • Always seal the meatballs tightly around the cheese to prevent leaks during baking.
  • Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor—pre-grated never melts quite right.
  • Watch the broiler closely for that perfect golden cheese top without burning.

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