Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Oven Baked Meatball Sandwiches are a hearty and comforting meal that’s full of flavor. Juicy, tender meatballs are baked to perfection and served in a soft, toasted bun with melted cheese and marinara sauce. These sandwiches are easy to prepare and are perfect for family dinners, casual gatherings, or when you’re craving a filling and delicious meal.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 lb ground beef or ground turkey
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 egg
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 1/2 cups marinara sauce
4 hoagie rolls or sub rolls
1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish (optional)

directions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef (or turkey), breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Mix well until everything is fully combined.
Shape the mixture into meatballs, about 1 to 1 1/2 inches in diameter, and place them on the prepared baking sheet. Bake the meatballs for 15-20 minutes, or until they are fully cooked and browned on the outside.
While the meatballs are baking, heat the marinara sauce in a saucepan over low heat.
Once the meatballs are done, remove them from the oven and carefully place them in the saucepan with the marinara sauce. Let them simmer in the sauce for 5 minutes.
While the meatballs are simmering, cut the hoagie rolls in half lengthwise, leaving the bottom intact. Lightly toast the rolls in the oven or on a grill pan.
To assemble the sandwiches, place 3-4 meatballs on each roll, spooning some marinara sauce over the top. Sprinkle with shredded mozzarella cheese.
Return the sandwiches to the oven and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired, then serve immediately.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 4 sandwiches.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 20-25 minutes
Total time: 40-45 minutes

Variations

Add sautéed onions and peppers to the sandwiches for extra flavor.
Use provolone or cheddar cheese instead of mozzarella for a different twist.
Make it a meatball parmesan sandwich by adding extra cheese and broiling the sandwiches for a crispy top.
For a spicy version, add red pepper flakes to the marinara sauce or use hot Italian sausage in the meatball mixture.

storage/reheating

Store leftover meatball sandwiches in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2-3 days.
To reheat, place the sandwich in the oven at 350°F for 10-12 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave the meatball and sauce mixture, then assemble the sandwich again.

FAQs

Can I use pre-made meatballs?
Yes, you can use store-bought meatballs if you’re short on time. Just bake and heat them in marinara sauce before assembling the sandwiches.

Can I make the meatballs ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the meatballs in advance and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking. Alternatively, you can freeze them for up to 3 months and bake them when ready to use.

Can I use a different type of meat?
Yes, you can use ground turkey, chicken, or even pork for a different flavor profile.

Can I make these sandwiches without cheese?
Absolutely! You can skip the cheese if you prefer, or substitute with a dairy-free cheese option.

How do I make the rolls crispy?
Toast the hoagie rolls in the oven or on a grill pan for a crispy exterior before assembling the sandwich.

Conclusion

Oven Baked Meatball Sandwiches are the perfect combination of savory meatballs, flavorful marinara sauce, and melted cheese, all served in a toasted roll. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just craving a filling meal, these sandwiches are sure to be a hit. With minimal effort and maximum flavor, they’ll become a family favorite in no time!