Easy Meatball Sub Casserole (Print version)
A cheesy meatball sub casserole with toasted bread, marinara, tender meatballs, and a creamy layer that keeps every scoop rich and hearty.
# Ingredients:
For the bread base
01 -
6 hoagie rolls or sub rolls, cut into 1-inch pieces
02 -
4 tablespoons (56 g) unsalted butter, melted
03 -
2 cloves garlic, minced
04 -
Nonstick cooking spray, for the baking dish
For the creamy layer
05 -
8 oz (225 g) cream cheese, softened
06 -
1/4 cup (60 g) mayonnaise
07 -
1/2 cup (50 g) grated parmesan cheese
08 -
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
09 -
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For the meatballs and topping
10 -
1 1/2 lb (680 g) fully cooked Italian-style meatballs, thawed if frozen and halved if large
11 -
3 cups (720 ml) thick marinara sauce
12 -
2 cups (225 g) shredded mozzarella cheese
13 -
1 cup (110 g) shredded provolone cheese or Italian cheese blend
14 -
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
15 -
Crushed red pepper flakes, optional
# Instructions:
01 -
Preheat the oven to 375°F. Lightly coat a 9x13-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
02 -
Arrange the roll pieces in the baking dish. Stir the melted butter and garlic together, drizzle over the bread, and toss lightly. Bake for 8-10 minutes, until the edges are lightly golden.
03 -
In a bowl, mix the softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, parmesan, Italian seasoning, and black pepper until mostly smooth.
04 -
Combine the meatballs and marinara in a saucepan or microwave-safe bowl and warm just until the sauce loosens. This helps the casserole heat evenly.
05 -
Spread the cream cheese mixture over the toasted bread. Spoon the saucy meatballs evenly over the top, then sprinkle with mozzarella and provolone.
06 -
Bake for 22-25 minutes, until the sauce bubbles at the edges and the cheese is melted and browned in spots. Rest for 5 minutes, then top with parsley and crushed red pepper if using.
# Good to know:
01 -
Use thawed, fully cooked meatballs for the fastest and most even bake.
02 -
Toast the bread before layering to keep the base from turning mushy.
03 -
Rest the casserole for 5 minutes before serving so the cheese settles.