Name: Garlic Bread Meatball Sub Sandwiches Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 15oz container ricotta cheese; 2 large eggs; 3 cloves garlic, minced or grated; 1 teaspoon kosher salt; 1 teaspoon black pepper; 2lb lean ground beef; 1 cup panko breadcrumbs; 4 hoagie rolls (St. Pierre brand recommended); 3 tablespoons softened butter; 3 tablespoons mayonnaise; ½ cup parmesan cheese, freshly grated; 3 cloves garlic, minced or grated; pinch of red pepper flakes; 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped; 1 15oz jar good-quality marinara sauce; 4oz mozzarella cheese, grated; fresh parsley, for serving

Jump to Recipe· 4.3 from 83 reviews

If you’re craving a sandwich that feels like a warm, comforting hug, then this Garlic Bread Meatball Sub Sandwiches Recipe is exactly what you need. Imagine juicy, tender homemade meatballs cloaked in rich marinara sauce, all tucked inside a perfectly toasted garlic bread roll with melty mozzarella melting on top. Every bite bursts with layers of flavor and texture that make this sandwich a total knockout for any dinner or game-day feast. It’s a beautiful marriage of Italian classics with a garlic bread twist that will have you making it again and again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A large stainless steel mixing bowl filled with a pink minced meat mixture that has a soft, slightly chunky texture, appearing moist and evenly combined throughout. A bright red silicone spatula is partially inserted into the mixture on the right side of the bowl, with the spatula handle resting on the bowl's edge. The background is a white marbled texture, and the image is taken from above, showing the full contents inside the bowl. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The magic of the Garlic Bread Meatball Sub Sandwiches Recipe starts with simple but essential ingredients that each bring something special to the plate. From the creamy ricotta adding moisture to the meatballs to the fresh garlic that perfumes the butter mixture for the rolls, every element counts in crafting this mouthwatering sandwich experience.

Ricotta cheese: Keeps the meatballs tender and moist for juicy bites every time.
Ground beef: The hearty base of the meatballs with rich flavor and great texture.
Panko breadcrumbs: Provide just the right amount of lightness and binding without heaviness.
Garlic: Minced and grated garlic brings savory warmth to both meatballs and bread.
Kosher salt and black pepper: Simple seasoning that enhances the natural flavors.
Hoagie rolls: Soft inside but toasty outside, perfect for soaking up sauce.
Butter and mayonnaise: The duo creates a luscious spread that crisps up beautifully on the rolls.
Parmesan cheese: Adds a sharp, nutty layer in the garlic butter mixture.
Red pepper flakes: A hint of heat to balance the richness.
Fresh parsley: Brightens the dish with fresh herbal notes and color.
Marinara sauce: The classic Italian tomato sauce ties everything together.
Mozzarella cheese: Melts perfectly over meatballs for that irresistible gooey finish.

How to Make Garlic Bread Meatball Sub Sandwiches Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Meatballs

Start by preheating your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. In a large bowl, whisk together the ricotta cheese, eggs, minced garlic, kosher salt, and pepper. This creamy mixture forms the heart of your meatballs, ensuring they stay tender and packed with flavor. Add in the ground beef and panko breadcrumbs, then mix just until combined—overmixing can toughen the meatballs. Shape the mixture into small, uniform meatballs and arrange them on greased baking sheets, spaced apart so they bake evenly. Pop them in the oven for about 20-25 minutes, until they’re golden and cooked through. You’ll end up with a mega batch, perfect for multiple meals, but for this Garlic Bread Meatball Sub Sandwiches Recipe, you’ll only use half.

Step 2: Make the Garlic Bread

While your meatballs are baking, combine softened butter and mayonnaise in a bowl, then stir in finely grated Parmesan, minced garlic, red pepper flakes, and fresh parsley. This creamy, garlicky spread is the star when it comes to transforming ordinary rolls into irresistibly flavorful garlic bread. Slice your hoagie rolls in half and slather the mixture generously on both sides. Lay them out on a sheet pan and bake at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for about 10-12 minutes. When they come out, each bite will have that perfect crunchy exterior and soft, buttery interior that’s simply mouthwatering.

Step 3: Assemble the Subs

Now for the fun part—assembling your Garlic Bread Meatball Sub Sandwiches Recipe! Toss your freshly baked meatballs in a good-quality marinara sauce, coating them until they’re saucy and inviting. Spoon around seven meatballs into each garlic bread roll, pile on the melty mozzarella cheese, and pop them back into the oven for 10 minutes. This step ensures the cheese melts perfectly over the meatballs, creating that gooey, cheesy layer that you just can’t resist. Once out of the oven, sprinkle some fresh parsley and extra parmesan cheese on top to brighten and finish off your masterpiece.

How to Serve Garlic Bread Meatball Sub Sandwiches Recipe

Four meatball subs are lined up on a parchment paper over a metal baking tray. Each sub has a toasted long white bun as the base, brushed with butter and sprinkled with finely chopped green herbs. On top, there are evenly spaced round meatballs covered in a thick layer of bright red tomato sauce. A layer of melted white cheese blankets the meatballs, with small green herb pieces sprinkled over the cheese for garnish. The buns are slightly open, showing the filling inside, and the tray is placed on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Finishing touches make all the difference! Fresh parsley not only adds a pop of vibrant green but also a fresh herbal note that cuts through the richness. A light dusting of grated Parmesan cheese on top adds a slightly salty, nutty kick. If you’re feeling adventurous, add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a little heat that dances on the tongue.

Side Dishes

This hearty sandwich pairs beautifully with simple sides that complement its bold flavors. Think crispy potato wedges or a fresh Caesar salad to add a crisp contrast. If you want to lean into Italian vibes, serve with a small bowl of extra marinara sauce for dipping or some roasted vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers to keep things light and colorful.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun gathering or party, try turning this Garlic Bread Meatball Sub Sandwiches Recipe into a sharing platter. Arrange all the components beautifully on a large board—stacked meatballs, sliced garlic bread, little bowls of marinara, and mozzarella—letting your guests build their own subs. Alternatively, cut the subs into smaller slider-sized portions for an irresistible appetizer option that’s perfect for game day or casual dinners.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

To keep that fresh-from-the-oven goodness for later, store any leftover meatballs and garlic bread separately. Wrap the meatballs tightly in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Keep the garlic bread in a paper bag or loosely wrapped in foil to maintain its crusty texture and prevent sogginess.

Freezing

The homemade meatballs freeze incredibly well, making this recipe perfect for meal prepping. Freeze cooked meatballs in a single layer on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months. Garlic bread is best enjoyed fresh but can be frozen unassembled—wrap it tightly and toast it again when ready to serve.

Reheating

For leftovers, reheat meatballs gently in marinara sauce on the stovetop until warmed through. Toast the garlic bread briefly in the oven to refresh that crisp exterior. When assembling reheated leftovers, add fresh mozzarella and bake just until melted. This technique revives that freshly made feeling every time.

FAQs

Can I make the meatballs without ricotta cheese?

While ricotta adds amazing moisture and tenderness, you can substitute it with a mix of breadcrumbs soaked in milk or a beaten egg for binding. Keep in mind the texture might be a bit firmer without ricotta’s creaminess.

What if I don’t have hoagie rolls?

Any sturdy sandwich roll or even a baguette cut to size can work well. Just make sure it’s wide enough to hold the meatballs and thick enough to toast up nicely without falling apart.

Can I use store-bought meatballs?

Absolutely! For a quicker version of the Garlic Bread Meatball Sub Sandwiches Recipe, pre-cooked store-bought meatballs can be tossed in marinara and warmed up. Homemade meatballs, though, provide that unbeatable fresh flavor and texture.

How spicy are these sandwiches?

The recipe includes just a pinch of red pepper flakes in the garlic butter spread, which adds a subtle hint of heat but nothing overpowering. You can always adjust the amount or leave it out for a milder version.

Can this be made gluten-free?

Yes! Use gluten-free breadcrumbs for the meatballs and swap the hoagie rolls for gluten-free buns. Just check your marinara sauce ingredients to ensure no hidden gluten sources.

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend this Garlic Bread Meatball Sub Sandwiches Recipe enough for anyone craving a sandwich that feels like a cozy Italian getaway. It’s approachable, satisfying, and downright delicious with every flavor-packed bite. So gather your ingredients, invite some friends (or keep it all to yourself!), and dive into this fantastic sandwich experience that’s destined to become a new favorite in your rotation.

Garlic Bread Meatball Sub Sandwiches Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need