Are you craving a hearty and tasty meal? Look no further! This Delicious Meatball Sub Recipe brings you mouthwatering flavors that are easy to make at home. With juicy meatballs, rich marinara sauce, and melted cheese, each bite is pure bliss. Perfect for any day of the week, this recipe is simple and fun. Let’s dive into the ingredients and start crafting your next favorite sandwich!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients List
– 1 pound ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
– 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably Italian-seasoned)
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
– 1 large egg
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
– 4 sub rolls (hoagie rolls work well)
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– Olive oil for brushing
– Optional: Sliced jalapeños for added heat
I love using fresh ingredients for my meatball subs. The ground beef gives a rich taste. Mixing in pork adds moisture. I always choose Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs. They bring flavor and texture. Fresh parsley brightens up the meatballs.
I add a large egg to bind the mixture. Minced garlic packs in more flavor. Dried oregano and basil enhance the taste. Don’t forget salt and pepper. They balance the dish.
For sauce, I suggest marinara. You can use store-bought or make your own. The sub rolls should be fresh and soft. I prefer hoagie rolls for their shape. Finally, mozzarella cheese melts perfectly on top. A little olive oil on the rolls adds a nice crunch.
You can also spice things up with sliced jalapeños if you like heat.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Meatballs
– Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
– In a large bowl, combine:
– 1 pound ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
– 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably Italian-seasoned)
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
– 1 large egg
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Mix all these ingredients well until they form a consistent mixture.
– Shape the mixture into 1.5-inch meatballs and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This helps keep them from sticking.
Baking the Meatballs
– Place the baking sheet in the oven.
– Bake for 20-25 minutes until the meatballs turn golden brown and are cooked through. A meat thermometer should read 160°F (70°C) inside.
Assembling the Sub
– While the meatballs bake, heat 1 cup of marinara sauce in a saucepan over medium heat until warmed through.
– Once the meatballs are done, gently add them to the warmed marinara sauce. Coat each meatball well in the sauce.
– Slice 4 sub rolls down the center without cutting all the way through. Lightly brush the outside with olive oil and place them on a baking sheet.
– Fill each sub roll with a generous amount of meatballs and sauce. Top with 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese.
– Broil the assembled subs in the oven for about 2-3 minutes. Watch closely until the cheese melts and bubbles.
– For a spicy touch, add sliced jalapeños on top before serving.
This process creates a savory home-style meatball sub that is sure to please your taste buds. For the complete details, refer to the Full Recipe.
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting the Meatballs
– Use a mix of beef and pork for added flavor and moisture.
– Don’t overmix the meatball mixture to keep them tender.
To make the best meatballs, I recommend mixing beef and pork. This blend gives a nice balance of flavor. The fat from the pork keeps the meatballs juicy. If you overmix, your meatballs can become tough. Just mix until everything is combined, and then stop.
Enhancing Flavor
– Add minced garlic or finely chopped onions to the sauce for extra flavor.
– Experiment with herbs like thyme or rosemary for variation.
For extra flavor, add minced garlic or chopped onions to your marinara sauce. This small step can change the taste of your dish. You can also try herbs like thyme or rosemary. These will add a nice twist to your meatball sub.
Presentation Tips
– Serve on a platter with extra marinara for dipping and garnish with parsley and extra Parmesan.
Make your meatball subs look great! Serve them on a large platter with extra marinara sauce on the side for dipping. Garnish with fresh parsley and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. This not only looks nice but also makes it more fun to eat!
Variations
Healthier Alternatives
– Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. This change cuts fat and calories. Both meats keep the flavor rich and tender.
– Use whole grain sub rolls for a healthier choice. Whole grain adds fiber and nutrients. It also gives a nice texture to the sub.
Flavorful Add-Ons
– Add sliced jalapeños or banana peppers for a spicy kick. This addition brings heat and depth. It can excite your taste buds and improve the overall flavor.
– Incorporate other cheeses like provolone or cheddar for added richness. These cheeses melt nicely and enhance the taste. Mixing cheeses can create a unique flavor profile.
Vegetarian Option
– Replace meatballs with plant-based meat alternatives or roasted vegetables for a vegetarian version. This swap keeps the meal hearty while being meat-free. Roasted veggies like bell peppers and zucchini add great flavor and texture.
Storage Info
Refrigeration Guidelines
Store leftover meatball subs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This keeps them fresh and safe to eat later. Just make sure the container seals well to prevent any air from getting in.
Freezing Instructions
You can freeze assembled meatball subs wrapped tightly in aluminum foil for up to 2 months. This is a great way to save time on busy days. When you want to eat them, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating in the oven or microwave. This helps the subs heat evenly and taste great.
Reheating Tips
Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through for best texture. This method keeps the bread crusty and the cheese melty. If you’re in a hurry, the microwave works too, but it may not give you the same crispy results. Enjoy your meal!
FAQs
Can I make the meatballs ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the meatballs in advance and refrigerate or freeze them. This saves time on busy days. Just shape the meatballs and store them in an airtight container. They will stay fresh for a few days in the fridge. If you freeze them, they can last for months. Just thaw them in the fridge before cooking. This makes meal prep easy and fun.
What’s the best type of marinara sauce to use?
Homemade marinara will provide the best flavor. It allows you to control the taste and ingredients. You can use fresh tomatoes, herbs, and spices. This gives a rich flavor to your meatball sub. If you’re short on time, high-quality store-bought sauces are great options. Look for brands without added sugars and preservatives. This way, you still get a tasty meal.
How can I make the sub spicier?
Add sliced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes to the meatball mixture or on top of the finished sub. These ingredients add a nice kick to your dish. You can also mix in hot sauce into the marinara for extra heat. Adjust the spice level to your liking. This way, you can enjoy a meatball sub that suits your taste.
We explored a tasty meatball sub recipe today. You learned key ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and tips for perfecting this dish. Remember, mixing beef and pork adds moisture and flavor. Don’t hesitate to try variations like turkey or plant-based options. Keep leftovers safely stored for future meals. These tips ensure your meatball subs will be a hit every time. Enjoy making your own delicious subs!
