Name: Cheesy Basil Turkey Meatball Subs Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pound ground turkey; 1 large egg, lightly beaten; 4 garlic cloves, minced; 3 tablespoons ricotta cheese; ½ cup breadcrumbs; ½ cup parmesan cheese, plus more for serving; ⅓ cup chopped fresh basil, plus more for topping; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon dried basil; Kosher salt and pepper, to taste; Olive oil, for browning; 24 ounces marinara sauce; 8 ounces fresh mozzarella, torn into pieces; Sub rolls, for serving

Jump to Recipe·5.2 from 26 reviews

If you are craving a hearty, comforting sandwich that feels like a warm hug on a busy day, these Cheesy Basil Turkey Meatball Subs will become your new favorite. Juicy turkey meatballs, infused with fragrant basil and oozing with fresh mozzarella and parmesan, are nestled inside perfectly toasted sub rolls and smothered in zesty marinara sauce. Each bite delivers a delightful balance of cheesy richness, herby freshness, and satisfying texture that’ll have you reaching for seconds before you know it. Trust me, these subs are the ultimate weeknight winner that’s sure to impress everyone around your table.

Cheesy Basil Turkey Meatball Subs Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients that work together beautifully to build flavor, texture, and that irresistible cheesiness you’re after. Each component plays a vital role—whether it’s the fresh herbs for brightness, the ricotta for moisture, or the marinara for tangy depth.

Ground turkey: The lean protein base that keeps the meatballs juicy and healthy.
Large egg: Helps bind the meatballs so they hold together perfectly.
Garlic cloves, minced: Packs aromatic punch and enhances the savory profile.
Ricotta cheese: Adds creaminess and tenderness to the meatballs.
Breadcrumbs: Provide structure and help absorb moisture for ideal texture.
Parmesan cheese: A sharp, salty kick that elevates every bite.
Fresh basil, chopped: Brings a bright, herbaceous note that complements turkey beautifully.
Garlic powder: A second layer of garlicky goodness for deeper flavor.
Dried basil: Enhances the basil flavor throughout the meatballs.
Kosher salt and pepper: Season perfectly to taste.
Olive oil: For browning the meatballs to golden perfection.
Marinara sauce: The tangy tomato base that ties all the flavors together.
Fresh mozzarella: Melts into gooey, cheesy bliss atop the meatballs.
Sub rolls: Soft but sturdy buns to hold all that deliciousness.

How to Make Cheesy Basil Turkey Meatball Subs

Step 1: Prepare the Meatball Mixture

Start by combining the ground turkey, lightly beaten egg, minced garlic, ricotta cheese, parmesan, fresh and dried basil, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, kosher salt, and pepper in a bowl. Mix gently until everything is just combined to keep the meatballs tender instead of tough—overmixing can squeeze out moisture and change the texture.

Step 2: Brown the Meatballs

Heat a splash of olive oil in an oven-safe pan over medium heat. Roll the mixture into meatballs and add them to the pan. Brown them on all sides until they’re a beautiful golden color. This step takes around 10 minutes and is crucial for developing flavor and a nice crust, so handle them carefully to keep their shape intact.

Step 3: Add Sauce and Cheese, Then Bake

Once browned, pour your marinara sauce over the meatballs and scatter fresh mozzarella pieces on top. Place the pan in the oven preheated to 400 degrees Fahrenheit and bake for 20 minutes. This melts the cheese perfectly, while the sauce bubbles and the meatballs finish cooking through.

Step 4: Final Toppings and Bread Preparation

Remove the pan from the oven and sprinkle extra parmesan, fresh basil, and crushed red pepper flakes if you like some heat. For the sandwich assembly, keep the oven on, place your sub rolls on a baking sheet, spoon the cheesy meatballs into the bread, and warm them in the oven for 5 minutes. This toasting step softens the rolls while adding a subtle crunch.

How to Serve Cheesy Basil Turkey Meatball Subs

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh chopped basil right before serving brightens these subs and adds an aromatic finish that pairs wonderfully with the rich cheese and tomato flavors. Don’t forget a little extra parmesan on top for that irresistible cheesy touch.

Side Dishes

These subs are hearty enough to be a meal on their own, but pairing them with a fresh green salad or crispy roasted vegetables balances the richness nicely. A side of garlic bread or some crunchy pickles also complements the flavors perfectly and adds textural contrast.

Creative Ways to Present

Want to switch things up? Turn your Cheesy Basil Turkey Meatball Subs into open-faced sandwiches served on a rustic wooden board for an elegant touch. Alternatively, slice the subs into smaller sliders for parties and watch them disappear. You can even serve the meatballs over spaghetti for a cozy pasta dinner with the same wonderful flavors.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover meatballs and sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the sub rolls separate to prevent them from getting soggy. When ready to eat, simply reheat and assemble fresh subs.

Freezing

You can freeze fully cooked meatballs in marinara sauce in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Freezing is a great way to have a quick meal at hand whenever the craving for Cheesy Basil Turkey Meatball Subs strikes.

Reheating

Reheat refrigerated or thawed meatballs gently in a skillet or microwave until warmed through. To refresh the sub rolls, toast them lightly to regain that lovely crust before assembling your sandwich again.

FAQs

Can I use ground beef instead of turkey?

Absolutely! Ground beef works well and will yield a richer flavor. You might want to reduce added fat slightly depending on the beef’s fat content.

How do I prevent the meatballs from falling apart?

Be careful not to overmix the ingredients; mix until just combined. Also, browning them gently in a hot pan helps set their crust and hold their shape.

Can I make these meatballs gluten-free?

Yes, simply substitute regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs to keep the texture similar while avoiding gluten.

What’s the best way to shred fresh basil for garnishing?

Stack the leaves, roll them tightly into a cigar shape, and slice thinly – this technique called chiffonade creates delicate ribbons that look beautiful on top.

Can I prepare the meatballs in advance and bake later?

Yes, you can shape and brown the meatballs ahead of time, then refrigerate for up to 24 hours before adding sauce, cheese, and baking them fresh.

Final Thoughts

Nothing beats the comforting satisfaction of sinking your teeth into warm Cheesy Basil Turkey Meatball Subs. Whether you’re feeding family, entertaining friends, or simply treating yourself, this recipe brings all the flavors we love in a hearty, cheesy, basil-kissed package that’s as delicious as it is simple. Give it a try and watch it quickly become a staple in your kitchen repertoire!