Description
These Mini Meatball Subs are everything you love about a classic meatball sandwich, just in a fun, bite-sized version. Juicy homemade (or store-bought) meatballs are simmered in marinara sauce, tucked into mini buns, and topped with gooey melted cheese. They’re easy, delicious, and totally crowd-pleasing!
Ingredients
For the meatballs:
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1 lb ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
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1/4 cup breadcrumbs
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1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
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1 egg
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1 tablespoon chopped parsley
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1/2 teaspoon salt
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1/4 teaspoon black pepper
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1/4 teaspoon Italian seasoning
For the subs:
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1 (24 oz) jar marinara or spaghetti sauce
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12 mini sub rolls, slider buns, or dinner rolls
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1 cup shredded mozzarella or provolone cheese
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2 tablespoons butter, melted (optional)
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1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
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Fresh parsley or basil, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
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Make the meatballs:
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In a large bowl, combine ground meat, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, egg, garlic, parsley, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
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Mix gently until combined, then roll into small balls (about 1 tablespoon each).
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Cook the meatballs:
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Heat a skillet over medium heat and lightly oil it.
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Add meatballs and cook for 6–8 minutes, turning occasionally, until browned on all sides and cooked through.
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Pour marinara sauce over the meatballs and simmer for 10 minutes.
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Prepare the buns:
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Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
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Slice buns open without cutting all the way through. Place them in a baking dish or on a sheet pan.
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Optional: Brush tops with melted butter mixed with garlic powder for extra flavor.
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Assemble the subs:
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Place 2–3 meatballs with sauce into each bun.
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Sprinkle shredded cheese on top of the meatballs.
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Bake:
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Bake for 8–10 minutes, or until cheese is melted and buns are slightly toasted.
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Serve:
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Garnish with chopped parsley or basil and serve warm!
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Notes
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You can use frozen meatballs for a shortcut—just heat them in the sauce!
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Add sautéed peppers or onions for extra flavor.
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These work great for meal prep or packing in lunchboxes.