Introduction:
Meatball subs are a classic comfort food that combines hearty meatballs, rich marinara sauce, and melted cheese all tucked into a crusty sub roll. This satisfying sandwich is perfect for game day, family gatherings, or a cozy dinner at home. With easy-to-follow steps and customizable ingredients, these meatball subs will become a family favorite.
Inspiration Behind the Recipe:
Inspired by Italian-American cuisine, meatball subs are a staple in many households. This recipe offers a homemade touch, allowing you to enjoy the authentic flavors of a classic Italian meatball sandwich right in your kitchen.
Ingredients Breakdown:
- For the Meatballs:
- 1 lb ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (preferably Italian seasoned)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley (chopped)
- 1 egg (beaten)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- For the Marinara Sauce:
- 2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- For Assembling the Subs:
- 4 sub rolls (hoagie or Italian)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Extra grated Parmesan cheese (for topping, optional)
- Fresh basil or parsley (for garnish, optional)
Step-by-Step Recipe:
- Prepare the Meatballs:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, beaten egg, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Mix until just combined; do not overmix.
- Shape the mixture into 1.5-inch meatballs and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake the Meatballs:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the meatballs are cooked through and have a nice golden brown color.
- Heat the Marinara Sauce:
- While the meatballs are baking, heat the marinara sauce in a saucepan over medium heat. Once heated, add the cooked meatballs to the sauce and let them simmer for about 5 minutes to soak up the flavors.
- Assemble the Subs:
- Split each sub roll lengthwise without cutting all the way through. Place the meatballs with sauce into each roll, making sure to spoon some sauce over the top. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese generously over each filled sub.
- Melt the Cheese:
- Place the assembled subs on a baking sheet and broil them in the oven for about 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden. Keep a close eye to prevent burning.
- Serve:
- Remove from the oven and garnish with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh basil or parsley if desired. Serve immediately.
Tips for the Perfect Meatball Subs:
- Use Quality Meat: Opt for a blend of beef and pork for more flavor and tenderness in your meatballs.
- Don’t Overmix: Mix the meatball ingredients just until combined to keep them tender.
- Customize the Sauce: Feel free to add extra herbs or spices to your marinara sauce for additional flavor.
Variations and Customizations:
- Cheesy Garlic Bread Subs: Brush the rolls with garlic butter before adding the meatballs for extra flavor.
- Spicy Meatballs: Add crushed red pepper flakes to the meat mixture for a spicy kick.
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute the meatballs with lentil or chickpea balls and use a plant-based cheese for a vegetarian version.
Health Considerations and Nutritional Value:
- Lean Meat Options: Use lean ground beef or turkey to reduce calories and fat content.
- Whole Wheat Rolls: Opt for whole wheat sub rolls for added fiber and nutrients.
FAQ:
- Can I make the meatballs ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the meatballs in advance and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. - How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover meatball subs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving. - Can I freeze meatball subs?
Yes, you can freeze the meatballs and marinara sauce separately. Assemble the subs before baking for best results.
Meatball Subs
Savor the deliciousness of Meatball Subs, featuring homemade meatballs simmered in marinara sauce and topped with melted cheese in a crusty sub roll. Perfect for a hearty meal, these sandwiches are sure to delight the whole family!
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- ¾ cup bread crumbs
- 1 large egg beaten
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- 2 teaspoons dried Italian seasoning
- 1 French baguette
- 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 pinch salt or to taste
- 1 14 ounce jar spaghetti sauce
- 4 slices provolone cheese
Instructions
Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
Make the Meatballs:
- In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, bread crumbs, egg, minced garlic, Parmesan cheese, parsley, and Italian seasoning.
- Mix everything together with your hands until well combined.
- Shape the mixture into 12 meatballs and place them in a baking dish.
Bake the Meatballs:
- Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for 15 to 20 minutes, or until they are cooked through.
- Use an instant-read thermometer to ensure the meatballs reach an internal temperature of at least 160°F (71°C).
Prepare the Baguette:
- While the meatballs are baking, cut the French baguette in half lengthwise, and open it like a book.
- Remove and discard some of the inner bread to create a well for the meatballs.
- Brush the cut sides of the baguette with olive oil and season with garlic powder and salt.
- Place the baguette on a baking tray, open-side up.
Toast the Baguette:
- When the meatballs have 5 minutes left to cook, place the baguette in the oven and bake until lightly toasted.
Warm the Sauce:
- While the bread and meatballs are cooking, heat the spaghetti sauce in a saucepan over medium heat.
Assemble the Sandwiches:
- Once the meatballs are cooked, remove them from the oven.
- Use a slotted spoon to transfer the meatballs into the hot sauce and gently stir to coat them in the sauce.
Add the Meatballs to the Baguette:
- Spoon the meatballs and sauce into the well of the toasted baguette.
- Top with slices of provolone cheese.
Melt the Cheese:
- Return the baguette to the oven and bake for 2 to 3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted.
Serve:
- Let the sandwich cool slightly before cutting it into 4 portions. Serve and enjoy!
Notes
- You can customize the seasoning in the meatballs based on your preference, adding more garlic, herbs, or spices to suit your taste.
- This recipe makes a hearty sandwich and pairs well with a side of crispy fries or a fresh salad.
