Easy Meatball Sub Casserole

Who says meatball subs have to mean rolling dozens of meatballs or dealing with countless pans? Our Easy Meatball Sub Casserole simplifies everything—no rolling, minimal prep, maximum flavor. Imagine all the cozy nostalgia of hot subs—garlic bread, savory marinara, melty cheese, and tender meat—layered and baked into one-pan perfection.

This casserole was created for busy families, weekend potlucks, or anyone craving comfort without the effort. With store-bought meatballs (or homemade if you’re feeling ambitious!), sub rolls, marinara sauce, and cheese, you’re just minutes away from cheesy heaven. This meal is also freezer-friendly, kid-friendly, and adaptable to any taste or dietary preference.

Read on for the full recipe, insider tips, variations, and everything you need to make this your go-to comfort dinner.

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Why This Meatball Sub Casserole Works

• Minimal Prep: No rolling—just cut, layer, and bake.

• One-Dish Convenience: Easy assembly and cleanup.

• Family & Crowd-Pleasing: Melty, saucy, cheesy, and comforting.

• Flexible & Customizable: Use favorite meatballs, cheeses, or breads.

• Freezer-Friendly: Prep ahead or freeze leftovers ready for reheating.

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Ingredients

Core Ingredients

• 1 pound fully cooked, store-bought meatballs (beef, turkey, or chicken)

• 4 large sub rolls or hoagie buns

• 3 cups marinara sauce

• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for extra flavor)

• 2 tablespoons butter, melted

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning

• Optional garnishes: fresh basil, red pepper flakes

Optional Add-Ins

• Sliced pepperoni or salami

• Sautéed mushrooms, peppers, or onions

• Slice of provolone or cheddar layered with mozzarella

• Drizzle of balsamic glaze or pesto

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Equipment Needed

• 9×13″ baking dish

• Mixing bowl or small bowl

• Spoon or spatula

• Knife and cutting board

• Aluminum foil

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Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1 – Prep the Bread Base

• Preheat Oven: Set to 375 °F (190 °C).

• Garlic Butter Mixture: In a small bowl, whisk together melted butter, minced garlic, and Italian seasoning.

• Brush Bread: Slice sub rolls lengthwise, keeping tops and bottoms intact. Place them cut-side up in the baking dish. Brush tops and insides with the garlic butter.

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Step 2 – Layer the Casserole

1. Sauce Layer: Spread about 1 cup of marinara sauce evenly over the buttered bread bottoms.

2. Meatballs: Cut meatballs in half and arrange them sauce-side down across the bread.

3. Cheese It Up: Sprinkle 1½ cups mozzarella and half the Parmesan over meatballs.

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Step 3 – Final Assembly and Bake

1. Top Layer: Spread another 1 cup of marinara on remaining bread pieces, then place them on top.

2. Cheese Finish: Top with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan.

3. Cover & Bake: Tent with foil and bake 15 minutes. Then remove foil and bake another 10 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden.

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Step 4 – Rest and Garnish

Let the casserole cool for 5 minutes to set. Sprinkle with fresh basil or red pepper flakes if desired. Cut into servings and serve hot.

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Pro Tips for Success

• Pre-slice meatballs—they absorb sauce better once cut.

• Don’t skip pre-buttering bread—avoid soggy bottoms.

• Use quality sauce and cheese—enhances flavor with minimal effort.

• Cover initially to steam, remove for finish to brown cheese.

• Prep ahead—assemble and refrigerate or freeze; then bake later.

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Variations to Elevate

• Italian Supreme: Add sautéed mushrooms, onions, and bell peppers.

• Spicy Twist: Mix jalapeños or crushed red pepper into sauce.

• Cheese Lovers: Add provolone or Monterey Jack with mozzarella.

• Meat Swaps: Use turkey or chicken meatballs for lighter options.

• Gluten-Free: Use GF sub rolls or ciabatta.

• Vegetarian Option: Swap meatballs for vegetarian or plant-based options.

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What to Serve With It

• Crisp Caesar or garden salad

• Roasted broccoli or green beans

• Garlic breadsticks or simple dinner rolls

• Sweet potato fries or potato wedges

• Pickles and pepperoncini on the side

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Storage & Make-Ahead Tips

• Fridge: Store extra portions in airtight container for up to 4 days.

• Freezer: Freeze assembled casserole (before or after baking) for up to 3 months. Defrost overnight before reheating at 350 °F until bubbly.

• Reheating: Warm in oven (covered) or microwave until hot throughout; add splash of sauce if needed.

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Troubleshooting & FAQ

What if the bread gets soggy?

Ensure garlic butter barrier, use thick sauce, and avoid pooling. Slight crisp is okay.

My top cheese isn’t melting evenly—help?

Add during uncovered bake stage for best browning and melting.

Can I make dish gluten-free?

Yes—use GF rolls and verify all ingredients are certified gluten-free.

Can I prep ahead?

Absolutely! Assemble and refrigerate or freeze—just adjust bake time if cold/frozen.

Not enough sauce?

Double sauce, reserve half, and drizzle at serving (or serve extra on side).

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Nutritional Snapshot (Per Serving, Approximate)

• Calories: 620

• Protein: 35 g

• Carbs: 45 g

• Fat: 30 g

• Fiber: 3 g

• Sodium: ~1,200 mg (varies by brand)

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Why You’ll Love This Casserole

• Family Favorite Comfort: Familiar flavors, cheesy delight, no mess.

• Time-Saving Dinner: No meatball prep—just cut, layer, bake.

• Crowd-Pleasing Potluck Menu: Easy to bring and serve from dish.

• Budget-Friendly: Affordable remake of popular sub, great value per serving.

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Final Thoughts

If you’re craving meatball subs but short on time or energy, this Easy Meatball Sub Casserole is the perfect solution. It’s fast, convenient, and bursting with cheesy, saucy goodness—just what comfort food should be.

It’s destined to become a family favorite, potluck hero, or go-to weeknight dinner. With minimal effort and maximum flavor, you simply can’t go wrong. Let me know if you’d like a printable recipe card or cutting-booth instructions!