[1][2][3][4][5][6] The sandwich primarily consists of meatballs, a tomato sauce or marinara sauce, and bread, such as Italian bread, baguette and bread rolls.

[5][6] Cheese such as provolone and mozzarella is sometimes used as an ingredient.

[7][6] Additional ingredients can include garlic, green pepper and butter, among others.

[6] It is sometimes prepared in the form of a submarine sandwich.

[8] It has been suggested that the meatball sandwich was invented in the United States around the time of the turn of the 20th century.