Ultimate Meatball Sub Recipe: Flavor-Packed Delight

There’s nothing quite like the aroma of a Meatball Sub wafting through the house, making your stomach growl louder than a bear on a diet. Picture this: soft, freshly baked bread cradling juicy meatballs, smothered in marinara sauce and topped with gooey cheese. It’s a symphony of flavors and textures that can make any day feel like a Saturday game day, even if you’re just sitting on your couch in your pajamas.

I remember the first time I attempted to make a Meatball Sub. It was an ambitious Saturday afternoon, armed with nothing but my mom’s recipe and an appetite the size of a football field. The kitchen turned into a battlefield of flour, breadcrumbs, and marinara stainsβ€”oh the horror! But as I took my first bite of that gooey goodness, all the chaos faded away. Whether it’s game day or just another Tuesday night, this delightful dish promises to bring people together around the table (or coffee table). Get ready for an unforgettable flavor experience! For more inspiration, check out this main dish recipes recipe.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • This Meatball Sub is not only super easy to prepare; it packs a flavor punch that will leave you craving more
  • You can customize meatballs with various herbs and spices according to your taste
  • Its visual appeal makes it perfect for entertaining guests or family dinners
  • Enjoy it as a quick weeknight meal or elevate your weekend feasts with minimal effort!

Ingredients for Meatball Sub

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

  • Ground Beef: Look for 80/20 ground beef for a good balance of flavor and moisture in your meatballs.

  • Breadcrumbs: Use Italian-style breadcrumbs for added flavor; they help bind everything together beautifully.

  • Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan adds depth and richness to the meatballs.

  • Italian Seasoning: This blend of herbs gives your meatballs that classic Italian flair; feel free to add more if you’re feeling adventurous!

For the Sauce:

  • Marinara Sauce: Choose your favorite jarred sauce or go homemade if you’re feeling fancy; either way, it’s a must-have!

For Serving:

  • Sub Rolls: Pick fresh, crusty sub rolls that can hold up against all that saucy goodness without falling apart.

  • Mozzarella Cheese: Shredded mozzarella is essential for that melty topping we all love; go generous!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Recipe preparation

How to Make Meatball Sub

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 375Β°F (190Β°C). While it’s heating up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper to keep those meatballs from sticking.

Step 2: Mix the Meatball Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and one beaten egg. Get in there with your hands (make sure they’re clean!) and mix until well combined.

Step 3: Shape the Meatballs

Roll the mixture into golf ball-sized meatballsβ€”about two tablespoons each. Place them evenly on your prepared baking sheet.

Step 4: Bake Those Bad Boys

Pop them in the oven for about 25 minutes or until they are browned and cooked through. Your kitchen will smell heavenly; try not to eat them before assembling!

Step 5: Heat Up Your Sauce

While the meatballs bake, warm up your marinara sauce in a saucepan over medium heat until it simmers lightly. This is where things get saucy!

Step 6: Assemble Your Subs

Slice open those sub rolls and toast them lightly if desired. Place three or four meatballs inside each roll, drizzle generously with marinara sauce, and sprinkle with shredded mozzarella cheese. Pop them back into the oven for about five minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Transfer to plates and enjoy these mouthwatering Meatball Subs while they are still hot! Perfectly messy and utterly deliciousβ€”just like life should be!

You Must Know

  • This delightful meatball sub offers more than just a delicious meal; it creates moments of joy
  • You can easily modify the ingredients based on your preferences
  • The rich flavors and mouthwatering aroma will make it a hit at any gathering
  • Perfect for lunch or dinner, it’s the ultimate comfort food!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

For more inspiration, check out this cooking tips recipe.

To achieve meatball sub perfection, start by browning your meatballs in a skillet for that golden crust. While they sizzle, toast your sub rolls in the oven until they’re warm and crispy. Then, simmer your favorite marinara sauce to bring everything together.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to customize your meatball sub with different cheeses like provolone or mozzarella, or swap ground beef for turkey or chicken. Add fresh basil or oregano for an herbaceous kick that will elevate your sandwich game!

Storing & Reheating

To store leftovers, place the meatballs and sauce in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, warm them on the stovetop to retain moisture, and toast the rolls separately for that fresh touch.

Chef's Helpful Tips

  • For the best meatball texture, don’t overmix your meat mixture; keep it slightly loose
  • Always let the meatballs rest before cooking to maintain their shape
  • A splash of red wine in the sauce adds depth and richness to every bite

Sometimes, my friends call me the β€œMeatball Whisperer,” especially after I made these subs at a potluck. Everyone came back for seconds, even my picky cousin who usually avoids anything green!

FAQs :

What is a Meatball Sub?

A Meatball Sub is a delicious sandwich that features meatballs, typically made from ground beef, pork, or turkey, served in a soft hoagie roll. The meatballs are often smothered in marinara sauce and topped with melted cheese, like mozzarella or provolone. This hearty sandwich is popular in Italian-American cuisine and can be customized with various toppings and sauces to suit your taste.

How do I make the best Meatball Sub?

To make the best Meatball Sub, begin by preparing homemade meatballs using a mix of ground meat, breadcrumbs, eggs, and seasonings. Bake or fry them until golden brown. Warm some marinara sauce on the stove and add the meatballs. Place this mixture into a toasted hoagie roll and top it with cheese before broiling until bubbly. Fresh basil or parsley can elevate the flavors further.

Can I use frozen meatballs for my Meatball Sub?

Yes, you can use frozen meatballs for your Meatball Sub. They offer convenience and save time when preparing meals. Simply cook them according to package instructions, then heat them in marinara sauce before assembling your sub. While homemade meatballs have superior flavor and texture, frozen ones can still create a satisfying sandwich when you’re short on time.

What toppings can I add to my Meatball Sub?

You can enhance your Meatball Sub with various toppings to add flavor and texture. Popular choices include sautΓ©ed onions, bell peppers, or mushrooms. You might also consider adding spicy pepperoncini or fresh herbs like basil and parsley for freshness. Experimenting with different cheeses like cheddar or pepper jack can give your sub a unique twist that complements the savory meatballs.

Conclusion for Meatball Sub :

The Meatball Sub is a classic dish that combines hearty flavors with comforting textures. By preparing homemade meatballs or using convenient frozen options, you can create a personalized sandwich that suits your taste. Don’t forget to experiment with various toppings to elevate your meal further! Whether enjoyed at home or as a quick grab-and-go option, this sandwich is sure to satisfy any craving for something warm and delicious. Enjoy crafting your perfect Meatball Sub today!

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Meatball Sub


  • Author: Ethan Brooks
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: Serves 4

Description

Meatball Subs are the ultimate comfort food, combining juicy meatballs, rich marinara sauce, and melty mozzarella cheese all tucked into a crusty sub roll. Perfect for game days or cozy dinners at home, this easy recipe promises to deliver irresistible flavors that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Customize with your favorite herbs and spices for a personal touch!


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb ground beef (80/20)
  • 1 cup Italian-style breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tsp Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 cups marinara sauce
  • 4 crusty sub rolls
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375Β°F (190Β°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and egg. Mix well using your hands.
  3. Shape the mixture into golf ball-sized meatballs and place them on the baking sheet.
  4. Bake for 25 minutes or until browned and cooked through.
  5. Meanwhile, heat the marinara sauce in a saucepan over medium heat until simmering.
  6. Slice open the sub rolls and fill each with 3-4 meatballs. Drizzle with marinara sauce and top with mozzarella cheese.
  7. Return to the oven for about 5 minutes until the cheese is melted.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Main
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Italian-American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 Meatball Sub (approx. 300g)
  • Calories: 550
  • Sugar: 6g
  • Sodium: 940mg
  • Fat: 25g
  • Saturated Fat: 10g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 13g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 48g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 32g
  • Cholesterol: 100mg

Keywords: For extra flavor, brown meatballs in a skillet before baking. You can substitute ground beef with turkey or chicken for a lighter option and add fresh basil for an aromatic twist.

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