Oven Baked Meatball Sandwiches Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Oven Baked Meatball Sandwiches are the ultimate comfort food—warm, cheesy, saucy, and incredibly satisfying. Perfect for weeknight dinners, game day snacks, or feeding a hungry crowd, these sandwiches are easy to assemble and baked to perfection with golden toasted bread, melty cheese, and juicy meatballs smothered in marinara sauce. Every bite is hearty, flavorful, and oh-so-delicious.

ingredients

this Recipe

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

meatballs (homemade or frozen, fully cooked)sub rolls or hoagie bunsmarinara saucemozzarella cheesep Parmesan cheesebuttergarlic powderItalian seasoningfresh parsley (optional)

directions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

If using frozen meatballs, heat them in marinara sauce on the stovetop until warmed through.

Split the sub rolls and place them on a baking sheet lined with foil or parchment paper.

Spread softened butter on the insides of the rolls and sprinkle with garlic powder and Italian seasoning.

Toast the buttered rolls in the oven for 5 minutes until lightly crisped.

Remove from oven and fill each roll with warm meatballs and spoonfuls of marinara sauce.

Top with shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.

Return the sandwiches to the oven and bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired and serve hot.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 4 sandwiches.Preparation time: 10 minutesBaking time: 10–12 minutesTotal time: 20–25 minutes

Variations

Add sliced bell peppers or sautéed onions for extra flavor.

Use provolone or pepper jack cheese for a twist.

Make mini meatball sliders using dinner rolls for party appetizers.

Add a drizzle of pesto or hot sauce before serving.

Use turkey or plant-based meatballs for a lighter version.

storage/reheating

Wrap leftover sandwiches in foil and refrigerate for up to 3 days.Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10–15 minutes or until warmed through.To keep bread from getting soggy, store meatballs and rolls separately when possible.

FAQs

Can I use frozen meatballs?

Yes, just make sure they’re fully cooked and heated before assembling the sandwiches.

What’s the best bread to use?

Sub rolls, hoagie buns, or any sturdy sandwich roll that holds up to sauce and cheese.

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes, assemble and refrigerate them (without baking) for up to 24 hours, then bake when ready.

How do I keep the bread from getting soggy?

Toast the rolls first and avoid over-saucing. Serve immediately after baking.

Can I freeze baked meatball sandwiches?

It’s best to freeze the meatballs and sauce separately, then assemble and bake fresh.

What kind of cheese works best?

Mozzarella is classic, but provolone, cheddar, or Italian blend all melt beautifully.

Are these kid-friendly?

Definitely—kids love the cheesy, saucy meatballs and toasted rolls.

Can I use homemade meatballs?

Absolutely! Homemade meatballs bring even more flavor to the sandwich.

Conclusion

Oven Baked Meatball Sandwiches are a cozy, crave-worthy meal that delivers every time. With gooey cheese, rich marinara, and tender meatballs nestled in toasted rolls, they’re sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re feeding a group or just treating yourself, this recipe is a guaranteed hit.

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