If you have a soft spot for classic sandwiches and comforting soups, this Meatball Sub Soup with Mozzarella and Parmesan Recipe will absolutely steal your heart. Imagine all the cozy flavors of a meatball sub melting together in a bowl of warm, savory broth, topped with gooey mozzarella and sharp Parmesan. It’s the perfect hug-in-a-bowl dish for chilly evenings or anytime you crave something hearty yet easy to whip up. Whether you’re a fan of traditional Italian flavors or looking for a fresh twist on your sandwich routine, this recipe brings the best of both worlds with every spoonful.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering these simple, everyday ingredients is all it takes to make a soup that bursts with familiar comfort and bold flavors. Each plays a crucial role in building layers of taste and sumptuous texture, from the tender meatballs to the cheesy finish that makes this soup truly special.
- 1 lb frozen or homemade meatballs: Choose your favorite type for a meaty base that is juicy and flavorful.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: For sautéing the onions and garlic, giving a fragrant foundation.
- 1 small onion (diced): Adds sweetness and depth when softened in the pot.
- 2 cloves garlic (minced): Infuses the soup with warm, pungent aroma.
- 4 cups marinara sauce: Rich and tangy tomato goodness to bring that classic sub flavor.
- 3 cups beef broth: Creates a savory, meaty liquid for the perfect soup consistency.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: Blends herbs like basil, oregano, and thyme for authentic flavor.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings to round out the taste.
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully, adding creamy, stretchy goodness.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Gives a sharp, nutty punch to finish off the dish.
- Fresh basil or parsley (for garnish): Brings a fresh pop of color and brightness.
- Crusty bread (for serving): Perfect for dipping and making the meal complete.
How to Make Meatball Sub Soup with Mozzarella and Parmesan Recipe
Step 1: Sauté Onions and Garlic
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onions and sauté them until they become soft and translucent, about five minutes. Then, toss in the minced garlic and cook for one more minute until fragrant. This step is crucial because it builds the aromatic base that the rest of the soup will depend upon.
Step 2: Add Marinara and Broth
Pour in the marinara sauce and beef broth, stirring to combine everything evenly. Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning, and add salt and pepper according to your taste preference. The marinara lends that distinct tomato sweetness, while the beef broth brings a rich, hearty depth to the soup’s body.
Step 3: Simmer the Meatballs
Carefully add the meatballs into the pot, giving the soup a gentle stir. Reduce the heat to maintain a simmer and let the soup cook for 15 to 20 minutes. This allows the meatballs to heat through perfectly and for all the flavors to meld beautifully, creating that irresistible meatball sub essence.
Step 4: Melt in the Cheeses
Finally, stir in the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese. Keep stirring until both cheeses melt smoothly into the soup, adding richness and that famous stretchy, cheesy texture that makes this soup unforgettable. This is the moment where everything comes together in perfect harmony.
How to Serve Meatball Sub Soup with Mozzarella and Parmesan Recipe
Garnishes
A little fresh basil or parsley sprinkled on top instantly brightens the soup with vibrant color and fresh, herbaceous notes. This finishing touch adds a beautiful contrast to the rich, cheesy broth and makes your presentation look as good as it tastes.
Side Dishes
Crusty bread is a must to serve alongside for dunking into the cheesy, tomatoey soup. Garlic bread or a warm baguette also pair beautifully, helping soak up every last drop. For a complete meal, consider a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables to add textural contrast and freshness.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving this soup in hollowed-out bread bowls for an interactive and rustic experience that doubles as an edible dish. You can also sprinkle extra Parmesan over the top or add a drizzle of good-quality olive oil to intensify the flavors. For a fun twist, layer some extra meatballs on top and broil under the grill briefly for a golden finish.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, transfer any leftovers to an airtight container and keep them in the refrigerator. The soup will stay delicious for up to 3 days, making it an ideal option for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week without sacrificing fresh flavor.
Freezing
This Meatball Sub Soup with Mozzarella and Parmesan Recipe freezes well if you want to prepare ahead. Store in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Keep in mind that the texture of the cheese may shift slightly after freezing, but refreshing the soup with some extra cheese when reheating can bring back that creamy magic.
Reheating
Reheat the soup gently on the stove over low to medium heat, stirring frequently to keep the cheese from sticking or separating. Adding a splash of broth or water can help regain the perfect consistency. Microwave reheating is possible but watch carefully to prevent overheating.
FAQs
Can I use homemade meatballs for this soup?
Absolutely! Homemade meatballs work wonderfully and allow you to customize seasonings, meat blend, and size for your perfect meatball sub soup experience.
Is it possible to make this soup vegetarian?
Yes, simply swap out the meatballs for vegetarian or plant-based alternatives and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth while keeping the rest of the ingredients the same.
How can I make the soup less thick?
If you prefer a thinner soup, add extra beef broth or water to reach your desired consistency without compromising flavor.
Can I prepare this soup in a slow cooker?
Definitely! After sautéing the onions and garlic on the stove, transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours, then stir in the cheeses at the end.
What bread is best to serve with Meatball Sub Soup?
A crunchy, crusty bread such as a baguette or Italian roll is ideal as it holds up well for dipping and balances the richness of the soup perfectly.
Final Thoughts
When you’re craving something that feels like a warm hug and satisfies those sandwich-loving cravings, this Meatball Sub Soup with Mozzarella and Parmesan Recipe is your go-to. It’s simple to make, full of comforting flavors, and wonderfully cheesy—everything you want in a bowl of soup. I can’t wait for you to try it and add it to your list of all-time favorite meals!
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Meatball Sub Soup with Mozzarella and Parmesan Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
This hearty meatball subs recipe features tender meatballs simmered in a flavorful marinara and beef broth sauce, topped with melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses, then served on crusty bread. It’s a comforting, satisfying meal perfect for lunch or dinner.
Ingredients
Meatballs and Sauce
- 1 lb frozen or homemade meatballs
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups marinara sauce
- 3 cups beef broth
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Cheese and Garnish
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish
Serving
- Crusty bread for serving
Instructions
- Sauté Aromatics: In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the diced onions for 5 minutes until softened and translucent, then add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute to release their fragrance.
- Add Liquids and Seasonings: Pour in the marinara sauce and beef broth, stirring to combine. Season the mixture with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste, ensuring the flavors are balanced.
- Simmer Meatballs: Add the frozen or homemade meatballs to the pot. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer and cook for 15 to 20 minutes, allowing the meatballs to heat through and the flavors to meld.
- Melt Cheeses: Stir in the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheeses until they melt completely into the sauce, creating a rich and creamy texture.
- Serve: Spoon the meatballs and sauce onto crusty bread slices. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley for a burst of color and freshness. Enjoy your meatball subs hot.
Notes
- Use homemade meatballs for a fresh, personalized touch or frozen for convenience.
- Simmering the meatballs in sauce ensures they stay moist and absorb rich flavors.
- Fresh herbs such as basil or parsley add brightness to the dish.
- Adjust seasoning according to your taste preferences.
- Serve with a side salad or chips for a complete meal.
