Print

Mini Football Meatball Subs Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

3.8 from 42 reviews

Mini Football Meatball Subs are hearty and fun sandwiches perfect for game day parties. These mini subs feature juicy meatballs simmered in marinara sauce, topped with melted mozzarella cheese arranged to resemble football laces using string cheese. They are easy to prepare, filling, and visually appealing, making them a fantastic snack or meal for football fans.

Ingredients

Scale

Meatballs & Sauce

  • 24 frozen mini meatballs
  • 2 cups marinara sauce

Sub Rolls & Cheese

  • 12 mini sub rolls
  • 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 2 mozzarella string cheese sticks (for laces)

Instructions

  1. Simmer meatballs: Add the frozen mini meatballs and marinara sauce to a small saucepan or mini slow cooker. Heat over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, and simmer gently for 15–20 minutes until the meatballs are heated through and fully cooked.
  2. Prepare rolls: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Slice each mini sub roll lengthwise, keeping one side attached to create a hinge. Arrange the rolls on a parchment-lined sheet pan.
  3. Assemble subs: Spoon 2 simmered meatballs into each sub roll along with some marinara sauce. Evenly sprinkle about 2 tablespoons of shredded mozzarella cheese over the meatballs in each roll.
  4. Bake subs: Place the assembled subs in the preheated oven and bake for 5–7 minutes, or until the mozzarella cheese is melted and bubbly.
  5. Add football laces: While the cheese is still warm and melty, cut thin strips from the mozzarella string cheese sticks. Lay these strips over the melted cheese in a pattern that resembles football laces.
  6. Serve and enjoy: Serve the mini football meatball subs warm, perfect for game day snacking or parties.

Notes

  • You can use a slow cooker to keep the meatballs warm before assembling the subs.
  • For extra flavor, add a sprinkle of Italian seasoning or crushed red pepper flakes to the marinara sauce while simmering.
  • Use fresh mozzarella string cheese for easy laces; if unavailable, use thin slices of regular mozzarella cheese.
  • Make sure not to slice the sub rolls completely through, so the sandwich holds together better.
  • These subs can be prepared ahead and baked just before serving.