Oven Baked Meatball Sandwiches Recipe

November 2, 2024October 4, 2024 by Hannah

Looking for an easy, cheesy meal that everyone will love? These Oven Baked Meatball Sandwiches are your new go-to! Juicy meatballs, melty cheese, and marinara sauce all baked into a toasted hoagie roll—what’s not to love? These are perfect for a busy weeknight or game day, and they come together with minimal effort. Let’s dive in!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Simple: Ready in under 30 minutes, with the help of pre-made meatballs.
Cheesy Goodness: Loads of mozzarella and provolone make this an ultra-satisfying meal.
Perfect for a Crowd: These sandwiches are perfect for family dinners, parties, or potlucks.

Ingredients

1-2 packages Carando Abruzzese Fresh Italian Meatballs – Juicy and flavorful, the star of the show.
4-6 hoagie rolls – Soft on the inside, but perfect for crisping up in the oven.
4-6 slices provolone cheese – For that melty layer between the bun and the meatballs.
12 ounces marinara sauce – Store-bought or homemade, your call!
6 cups mozzarella cheese – Because we’re going all-in on the cheese factor.
Parmesan cheese & parsley for garnish – Optional, but adds a little extra flavor and a pop of color.

Variations

Spicy Kick: Add some red pepper flakes or jalapeños for a spicy twist.
Different Cheeses: Swap the provolone or mozzarella for cheddar or gouda if you’re feeling adventurous.
Garlic Butter Buns: Brush your hoagie rolls with garlic butter before assembling for an extra burst of flavor.

How to Make the Recipe

1. Preheat the Oven:

Preheat your oven to 375°F and line a large baking sheet with foil. This will make cleanup a breeze later!

2. Bake the Meatballs:

Place the raw meatballs on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 1 inch apart. Bake for 15 minutes. Then, flip the meatballs over and return them to the oven for another 14-17 minutes, until they reach an internal temperature of 185°F.

3. Prep the Hoagie Rolls:

While the meatballs are finishing up, grab a casserole dish and give it a quick spray with cooking oil. Place the hoagie rolls inside the dish and line each one with a slice of provolone cheese.

4. Assemble the Sandwiches:

Once the meatballs are fully cooked, place several into each hoagie roll on top of the cheese. Don’t turn off your oven just yet—we’re not done!

5. Add Sauce and Cheese:

Spoon marinara sauce over the meatballs, then pile on the shredded mozzarella cheese. We’re going for that perfect cheesy melt here.

6. Bake:

Pop the assembled sandwiches into the oven and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Want an extra cheesy, crispy top? Broil the sandwiches for 2-5 minutes to brown the cheese slightly.

7. Garnish and Serve:

Sprinkle a little Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley over the top before serving, if you’re feeling fancy.

How to Serve

Perfect with Chips: Serve these with a side of crispy potato chips or a simple salad.
Game Day Favorite: These are great for watching the game or hosting a casual get-together.
Meal Prep: Make a big batch of meatballs and store them in the fridge—these sandwiches come together in no time when you’re short on time.

Make Ahead

Prep the Meatballs: You can cook the meatballs ahead of time and just assemble the sandwiches when you’re ready to eat.
Freezer-Friendly: These sandwiches can be assembled and frozen before baking. Just wrap them individually in foil and bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

FAQs

Can I use frozen meatballs?
Absolutely! Just follow the cooking instructions on the package, and you’re good to go.

What other sauces can I use?
You can swap marinara for pesto, Alfredo, or even a spicy arrabbiata for a little kick.

How do I keep the buns from getting soggy?
Lining the buns with provolone cheese creates a barrier that helps prevent sogginess. You can also toast the buns briefly before assembling if you want extra crunch.

There you have it—easy, cheesy, and oh-so-satisfying Oven Baked Meatball Sandwiches. Perfect for busy nights or when you just need something hearty and delicious. Enjoy!