Introduction
Meatball Sub Soup is the ultimate comfort food that combines the hearty, savory flavors of a meatball sub sandwich with the rich, satisfying goodness of a warm bowl of soup. This recipe takes all the best parts of a classic meatball sub — the juicy, flavorful meatballs, melty cheese, and delicious marinara sauce — and turns them into a soup that’s perfect for cozy dinners, family gatherings, or casual weeknight meals. With tender homemade meatballs, a flavorful tomato base, and plenty of cheese, this soup will quickly become a go-to comfort food for meatball and sandwich lovers alike.
Whether you’re craving something warm and filling on a cold day, or you simply want to put a fun twist on the classic meatball sub, this soup is the answer. Plus, it’s a simple, easy-to-make dish that delivers big flavor with minimal prep time.
Perfect for:
- Family dinner nights
- Casual weeknight meals
- Serving guests
- Cold weather comfort food
- Meatball lovers
- Halal-friendly meal options
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Here’s why Meatball Sub Soup is going to be your next favorite dish:
- Savory and Flavorful Meatballs: The meatballs are packed with savory spices and herbs, delivering bold flavors that meld perfectly with the soup base.
- Comforting Soup Base: The tomato-based soup is rich, thick, and full of flavor, making it feel like the perfect hearty meal.
- Cheesy Goodness: The soup is topped with melted cheese, giving it that gooey, indulgent finish you’d expect from a meatball sub.
- Halal-Friendly: This recipe uses halal-friendly ground beef or chicken, ensuring a delicious and inclusive meal without the use of pork, bacon, or any non-halal ingredients.
- Easy to Make: With just a few simple ingredients and minimal effort, you can prepare this comforting meal in no time, perfect for busy days.
Preparation and Cooking Time
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Preparation Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 40 minutes
- Servings: 6-8 servings
- Calories per serving: Approximately 350-400 calories
- Key Nutrients: Protein: 25g, Carbs: 30g, Fat: 18g
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Meatball Sub Soup:
For the Meatballs:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef or halal chicken (depending on preference)
- ½ cup breadcrumbs (use gluten-free if preferred)
- 1 large egg
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
For the Soup Base:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups (1 liter) low-sodium chicken broth or beef broth (halal-certified)
- 2 cans (14 oz each) crushed tomatoes
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional for some heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (for topping)
- 1-2 hoagie rolls or sub rolls, cut into cubes (for croutons)
Ingredient Highlights
- Halal Ground Beef or Chicken: This recipe uses halal-certified ground beef or chicken, ensuring that the meat is permissible and high-quality.
- Tomato Base: Crushed tomatoes create a rich and tangy broth that is the perfect complement to the savory meatballs.
- Mozzarella Cheese: Just like a classic meatball sub, the mozzarella adds a melty, cheesy finish that makes this soup irresistible.
- Breadcrumbs: The breadcrumbs help to keep the meatballs light and tender, while also soaking up the savory flavors in the soup.
- Hoagie Rolls: The cubes of bread soak up the tomato broth, making them the perfect, soup-soaking crouton that adds to the experience of a meatball sub in soup form.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these simple steps to make your very own Meatball Sub Soup:
Make the Meatballs:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
- Mix the Meatball Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef (or chicken), breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, oregano, basil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the meatballs tender.
- Form the Meatballs: Roll the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 to 1½ inches in diameter, and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake the Meatballs: Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. You can check doneness by cutting one meatball in half — the center should no longer be pink.
Make the Soup Base:
- Sauté the Onion and Garlic: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 3-4 minutes, until softened. Add the minced garlic and sauté for another 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add the Tomatoes and Broth: Pour in the crushed tomatoes and the chicken or beef broth. Stir in the oregano, basil, crushed red pepper flakes (if using), and salt and pepper to taste.
- Simmer: Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat. Let it cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Add the Meatballs: Carefully drop the baked meatballs into the soup, stirring gently to combine. Let the soup simmer for another 10-15 minutes, allowing the meatballs to absorb some of the tomato broth flavors.
Prepare the Hoagie Rolls:
- Make Croutons: While the soup is simmering, cut the hoagie rolls or sub rolls into cubes. In a small skillet, toast the bread cubes over medium heat until they are golden and crispy on the edges, about 5-7 minutes.
Serve the Soup:
- Top with Mozzarella: Once the soup and meatballs are ready, ladle the soup into bowls. Top with a handful of shredded mozzarella cheese and a few cubes of toasted bread. The cheese will melt into the soup, creating that delicious cheesy layer you’d find in a meatball sub.
- Garnish: Optionally, sprinkle some fresh parsley on top for a touch of color and freshness.

How to Serve Meatball Sub Soup
Meatball Sub Soup can be served in various fun and delicious ways:
- With Extra Cheese: If you love cheese, top your bowl with even more mozzarella or Parmesan for extra gooeyness.
- With a Side Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette makes for a perfect, fresh contrast to the richness of the soup.
- As a Family Meal: Serve this soup as a main dish for a family dinner with garlic bread or warm dinner rolls on the side.
- As a Comforting Lunch: A bowl of Meatball Sub Soup is perfect for lunch during colder months. Pair with some crusty bread for dipping.
- For Meal Prep: Store the soup in individual containers for easy grab-and-go meals throughout the week.
Additional Tips for Meatball Sub Soup
Here are some helpful tips to make your Meatball Sub Soup even more flavorful:
- Customize the Meatballs: Feel free to add extra spices like Italian seasoning, fennel seeds, or even a touch of grated garlic to the meatballs to enhance the flavor.
- Avoid Overcooking the Meatballs: Be careful not to overcook the meatballs while baking to keep them tender and juicy. The soup will finish cooking them, so they don’t need to bake for long.
- Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh basil or parsley added just before serving can elevate the flavor of the soup and add a pop of freshness.
- Adjust the Broth: If you prefer a thinner soup, you can add more broth. If you like a heartier texture, reduce the amount of broth and let the soup thicken.
- Toast the Bread: Toasting the bread cubes adds extra flavor and texture, mimicking the crispy crust of a meatball sub.
Recipe Variations of Meatball Sub Soup
Here are some fun variations to try with your Meatball Sub Soup:
- Spicy Meatball Sub Soup: Add more crushed red pepper flakes or some hot sauce to the soup for a spicy kick.
- Vegetarian Meatball Sub Soup: Use plant-based meatballs or make your own with lentils, chickpeas, and breadcrumbs for a vegetarian-friendly option.
- Cheesy Meatball Sub Soup: Stir in extra cheese into the soup base for a creamy, cheesy texture. You can use cream cheese or even ricotta for a different twist.
- Italian Meatball Sub Soup: Add a splash of balsamic vinegar and some fresh mozzarella balls for an Italian-inspired version.
- Gluten-Free Meatball Sub Soup: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and ensure the broth and bread are also gluten-free for a completely gluten-free dish.
Freezing and Storage for Meatball Sub Soup
- Freezing: You can freeze this soup for up to 3 months. Simply let the soup cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container or freezer-safe bags. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and heat on the stove until warm.
- Storage: Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to develop, making it even tastier the next day.
Special Equipment for Meatball Sub Soup
Here are some items that can make making Meatball Sub Soup easier:
- Baking Sheet: A good quality baking sheet helps the meatballs bake evenly.
- Large Pot: A large, sturdy pot is essential for making the soup base and allowing it to simmer properly.
- Skillet: A skillet or frying pan is great for toasting the hoagie rolls and making them crispy.
- Soup Ladle: A large ladle makes serving the soup easy and ensures that the meatballs stay intact.
- Meatball Scoop: A meatball scoop or spoon helps you form uniform meatballs for even cooking.
FAQ Section about Meatball Sub Soup
- Can I use ground turkey instead of beef or chicken? Yes, ground turkey works perfectly for a lighter version of this soup. Just ensure it’s cooked through properly.
- Can I make this soup ahead of time? Yes, this soup can be made a day ahead and stored in the fridge. It will actually taste even better the next day.
- Can I add vegetables to the soup? Absolutely! You can add diced carrots, bell peppers, or spinach for added texture and nutrition.
- Can I make the meatballs in advance? Yes, you can make the meatballs ahead of time and store them in the fridge or freezer before adding them to the soup.
- Can I use store-bought meatballs? Yes, you can use store-bought halal meatballs if you prefer a quicker version. Just make sure they are fully cooked before adding them to the soup.
Meatball Sub Soup
- Prep Time: 20minutes
- Cook Time: 40minutes
- Total Time: 1hour
Ingredients
For the Meatballs:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef or halal chicken (depending on preference)
- ½ cup breadcrumbs (use gluten-free if preferred)
- 1 large egg
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
For the Soup Base:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups (1 liter) low-sodium chicken broth or beef broth (halal-certified)
- 2 cans (14 oz each) crushed tomatoes
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional for some heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (for topping)
- 1–2 hoagie rolls or sub rolls, cut into cubes (for croutons)
Ingredient Highlights
- Halal Ground Beef or Chicken: This recipe uses halal-certified ground beef or chicken, ensuring that the meat is permissible and high-quality.
- Tomato Base: Crushed tomatoes create a rich and tangy broth that is the perfect complement to the savory meatballs.
- Mozzarella Cheese: Just like a classic meatball sub, the mozzarella adds a melty, cheesy finish that makes this soup irresistible.
- Breadcrumbs: The breadcrumbs help to keep the meatballs light and tender, while also soaking up the savory flavors in the soup.
- Hoagie Rolls: The cubes of bread soak up the tomato broth, making them the perfect, soup-soaking crouton that adds to the experience of a meatball sub in soup form.
Instructions
Make the Meatballs:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
- Mix the Meatball Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef (or chicken), breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, oregano, basil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the meatballs tender.
- Form the Meatballs: Roll the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 to 1½ inches in diameter, and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake the Meatballs: Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. You can check doneness by cutting one meatball in half — the center should no longer be pink.
Make the Soup Base:
- Sauté the Onion and Garlic: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 3-4 minutes, until softened. Add the minced garlic and sauté for another 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add the Tomatoes and Broth: Pour in the crushed tomatoes and the chicken or beef broth. Stir in the oregano, basil, crushed red pepper flakes (if using), and salt and pepper to taste.
- Simmer: Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat. Let it cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Add the Meatballs: Carefully drop the baked meatballs into the soup, stirring gently to combine. Let the soup simmer for another 10-15 minutes, allowing the meatballs to absorb some of the tomato broth flavors.
Prepare the Hoagie Rolls:
- Make Croutons: While the soup is simmering, cut the hoagie rolls or sub rolls into cubes. In a small skillet, toast the bread cubes over medium heat until they are golden and crispy on the edges, about 5-7 minutes.
Serve the Soup:
- Top with Mozzarella: Once the soup and meatballs are ready, ladle the soup into bowls. Top with a handful of shredded mozzarella cheese and a few cubes of toasted bread. The cheese will melt into the soup, creating that delicious cheesy layer you’d find in a meatball sub.
- Garnish: Optionally, sprinkle some fresh parsley on top for a touch of color and freshness.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 8
- Calories: 400
- Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Protein: 25g
Conclusion
Meatball Sub Soup is a comforting, savory, and satisfying dish that brings the beloved flavors of a meatball sub into a warm, hearty bowl of soup. With juicy meatballs, flavorful tomato broth, and melty cheese, this soup is the ultimate cozy meal, perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re feeding a family, hosting friends, or craving something filling and delicious, this recipe delivers on all fronts. Easy to make, versatile, and full of flavor, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy!