Go Back
+ servings
Air Fryer Meatballs Subs

Air Fryer Meatball Subs

5 from 7 votes
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
3 minutes
Total Time: 18 minutes
Servings: 6 Servings

Description

Air Fryer Meatballs Subs will be one of the easiest dinners you ever make. There is nothing as better or as delicious, however! So good, and so easy!

Ingredients 

  • 1 lb ground beef, or a mix of beef and pork
  • 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
  • 1 large egg, beaten
  • 2 cloves garlic , minced
  • 2 tbsp parsley, chopped
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Optional: 1/4 cup milk, for added moisture
  • 2 cups marinara sauce, or spaghetti sauce
  • 6 rolls Sub rolls , or baguettes
  • 1 cup Mozzarella cheese, sliced or shredded

Toppings (optional): Fresh basil leaves, Grated Parmesan or Pecorino Romano cheeseSautéed onions or bell pepper, Red pepper flakes, for added heat

    Instructions

    • Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine ground meat, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, beaten egg, minced garlic, parsley, oregano, salt, and pepper. If using milk, add it now. Mix until just combined. Avoid overmixing as this can make the meatballs tough.
    • Shape Meatballs: Using your hands or a scoop, form mixture into meatballs, around 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter.
    • Preheat Air Fryer: Set your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and allow it to preheat for a few minutes.
    • Arrange in Air Fryer: Place meatballs in the air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring they are not touching to allow for proper air circulation.
    • Cook: Air fry the meatballs for approximately 10-12 minutes, flipping them halfway through the cooking process. Ensure they are cooked through and have an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
    • Split your sub rolls without cutting them all the way through.
    • Fill each roll with an appropriate number of meatballs (usually 3-4 depending on size).
    • Spoon marinara sauce over each meatball.
    • Sprinkle generously with mozzarella and, if desired, Parmesan cheese.
    • Lightly spray the outside of the sub rolls with olive oil or cooking spray for a crispy finish.
    • Carefully place the assembled subs into the air fryer basket.
    • Lower the temperature to 360°F (182°C).
    • Cook for 3-5 minutes or until the bread is toasted to your liking and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
    • If desired, sprinkle with fresh chopped basil or parsley for an aromatic finish.
    • Serve your meatball subs hot with a side of marinara for dipping, a crisp salad, or your favorite chips.

    Equipment

    • Air Fryer
    • Cooking Spray
    • Parchment Paper, optional

    Notes

    Storing, Freezing, and Reheating Air Fryer Meatball Subs Recipe Card


    Storing:
    1. Refrigeration:
      • Allow any leftover meatball subs to cool to room temperature.
      • Place them in an airtight container or wrap them tightly in aluminum foil.
      • Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
    Freezing:
    1. Meatballs Alone:
      • If you've made extra meatballs or wish to prepare them in advance, let them cool completely after air frying.
      • Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze individually.
      • Once frozen, transfer them to a zip-top freezer bag, squeeze out the excess air, and seal.
      • Label the bag with the date and store in the freezer for up to 3 months.
    2. Assembled Sub:
      • While it's best to freeze only the meatballs, you can also freeze an assembled but not toasted sub. Wrap it tightly in aluminum foil, then place inside a freezer bag.
      • Freeze for up to 1 month. Remember, the bread may become a bit soggy upon thawing.
    Reheating:
    1. From the Refrigerator:
      • Preheat your air fryer to 320°F (160°C).
      • Place the sub inside and heat for about 3-5 minutes until the sub is hot and the cheese is melted.
    2. From the Freezer (Meatballs Only):
      • If the meatballs are frozen, you can reheat them directly in the air fryer from frozen. Set the air fryer to 370°F (188°C) and heat for 10-12 minutes or until heated through.
    3. From the Freezer (Assembled Sub):
      • For a previously assembled and frozen sub, it's best to let it thaw overnight in the refrigerator.
      • Reheat in the air fryer at 320°F (160°C) for 5-7 minutes or until hot.

    Note: When reheating, always ensure the food reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safety. Adjust reheating times based on the capabilities and size of your specific air fryer model.

    Nutrition

    Serving: 1ServingCalories: 230kcalCarbohydrates: 9gProtein: 25gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gTrans Fat: 0.3gCholesterol: 95mgSodium: 671mgPotassium: 558mgFiber: 2gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 675IUVitamin C: 8mgCalcium: 184mgIron: 3mg