Meatball Sub
Discover the ultimate Meatball Sub recipe! Savory, flavorful, and easy to make, this sandwich will become your new favorite comfort food.
Ingredients
For the Meatballs:
- 1 lb ground beef or a mix of beef and pork for extra juiciness
- 1 cup Italian-style breadcrumbs helps hold the meatballs together and adds flavor
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg binds everything together
- 2 cloves garlic minced (for that irresistible aroma)
- 1 tablespoon dried Italian seasoning a perfect blend of oregano, basil, and thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon salt to bring all the flavors together
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper for a subtle kick
- 2 tablespoons olive oil for sautéing the meatballs
For the Sauce:
- 2 cups marinara sauce store-bought or homemade—either works wonderfully
- 1 teaspoon dried basil adds extra herbal flavor
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder also optional if more garlic is wanted
For the Sub:
- 4 sub rolls preferably Italian or hoagie rolls, soft yet sturdy
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese the tried and true, stringy kind
- Fresh basil leaves optional, for garnish
- Red pepper flakes crushed (optional, for a little heat)
Pro Tip:
- Feel free to mix up the cheeses—adding a bit of provolone or fontina will give your sandwich a delightful twist. You can also use whole wheat rolls for a lighter healthier version without sacrificing flavor.
- With these ingredients you’re ready to create a meatball sub that’s packed with flavor and texture. Each element, whether the meatball juiciness or cheese creaminess, plays a crucial role in making this food so hard to resist. Let’s move on to the next step and get cooking!
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Meatballs
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, Italian breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Mix everything together until well combined. Be light not to overwork, as this makes the meatballs tough.
- Use your hands to form the mixture into 1 1/2-inch meatballs and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until they’re golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 160°F (71°C).
Step 2: Simmer the Sauce
- While the meatballs are baking, pour the marinara sauce into a large saucepan over medium heat.
- Stir in dried basil and garlic powder. Let the sauce simmer for 5 to 10 minutes to allow flavors to blend together.
Step 3: Assemble the Sub
- While the meatballs are soaking in the sauce, slice your sub rolls and place them on a baking sheet.
- Toast the rolls in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 3-5 minutes, or until they’re lightly browned and crispy on the edges.
- Spoon a few meatballs into each toasted roll, and be sure to ladle plenty of sauce over them.
- Top the meatballs with a generous amount of shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Place the assembled subs back in the oven for about 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 4: Garnish and Serve
- Once your cheese is perfectly melted, remove the subs from the oven.
- If desired, sprinkle with fresh basil leaves and a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
- Serve immediately, and enjoy the deliciousness of your homemade meatball sub!
- Making a meatball sub is all about layering flavors and textures. From the crispy toasted bread to the juicy, cheesy meatballs soaked in savory marinara sauce, this sandwich is sure to become a family favorite. Ready to dig in? Let’s move on to some pro tips and variations to customize this recipe even more!
Notes
Nutrition Information (Per Serving):
- Calories: 550
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 8g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
- Sodium: 900mg
- Iron: 15% DV