Are you craving a hearty, delicious meal that’s easy to make at home? Look no further than these Homemade Savory Meatball Subs! Packed with juicy meatballs, flavorful marinara, and melted cheese, this dish is perfect for any dinner. In this post, I’ll guide you through making these mouthwatering subs step by step, including tips to ensure your meatballs turn out perfect. Let’s get started on this delightful dinner idea!
Ingredients
Required Ingredients for Meatballs
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 lb ground pork
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
For meatballs, I use a mix of ground beef and ground pork. This combo gives a tasty flavor and moist texture. Breadcrumbs help bind the meatballs, while Parmesan adds a nice cheesy touch.
Additional Ingredients for Assembly
– 2 cups marinara sauce
– 4 sub rolls
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish
For the finish, I layer the meatballs in sub rolls. I pour marinara sauce over the top and sprinkle with mozzarella. Fresh basil leaves add color and a fresh taste.
Seasonings and Flavor Enhancers
– 2 cloves garlic
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
The magic lies in the seasonings! Garlic brings a rich flavor. Oregano and basil add warmth. A bit of crushed red pepper gives a gentle kick. You can adjust the spices to fit your taste.
For the full recipe, check the details above. Enjoy making your meatball subs!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Meatball Mixture
To start, gather your ingredients. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, minced garlic, oregano, basil, onion powder, crushed red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined. Be careful not to overwork the meat. Overmixing can lead to tough meatballs. Aim for a light touch.
Shaping and Cooking the Meatballs
Next, shape the mixture into meatballs. Each ball should be about 1.5 inches in diameter. You should get around 16 meatballs from this mixture. To cook, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Place the meatballs on the sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes. They should be cooked through and browned.
Assembling the Meatball Subs
Now comes the fun part: assembling your subs! Slice each sub roll open lengthwise without cutting all the way through. This keeps the roll intact for filling. Place four meatballs inside each roll. Generously spoon marinara sauce over the meatballs. Then, sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the sauce. For the final touch, broil the assembled subs for 2-3 minutes. This melts the cheese and gives it a nice golden color. Watch closely to prevent burning!
Tips & Tricks
Ensuring Moist and Flavorful Meatballs
To make sure your meatballs stay moist, avoid over-mixing the meat. When you combine the ingredients, mix just enough to blend them without squishing the meat too much.
Adding moisture is key. You can use ingredients like grated cheese or a splash of milk. These small tweaks keep the meatballs juicy and packed with flavor.
Broiling for Perfect Cheese Melt
Broiling gives your subs that golden cheese finish. Place your assembled subs under the broiler for just 2-3 minutes. Watch them closely! Cheese can go from bubbly to burnt very fast.
Position the subs in the center of the oven. This helps them cook evenly. If you notice any burning, move the tray down a notch.
Enhancements for Savory Flavors
Spices can elevate your meatball subs. Start with garlic, oregano, and basil. These herbs add depth and taste.
You can also try adding crushed red pepper flakes for a little heat. For a twist, mix in some chopped olives or sun-dried tomatoes. These optional add-ins make your subs even more delicious.
If you want the full recipe, check out the complete instructions above.
Variations
Alternative Meats for Meatballs
You can switch up the meat in your meatballs. Try using turkey or chicken for a leaner option. Ground turkey gives a lighter taste and pairs well with savory spices. Chicken also works nicely and adds a unique flavor. If you want a plant-based option, there are many vegan meat substitutes. Use lentils, chickpeas, or store-bought veggie crumbles. These will create a tasty and satisfying meatball.
Different Sauce Options
Your sauce makes a big difference in flavor. You can go homemade or use store-bought marinara sauce. Homemade sauce allows you to adjust flavors to your liking. Add garlic or herbs for extra zest. If you prefer store-bought, pick a brand you trust. For those who like it spicy, try adding crushed red pepper flakes to your sauce. This gives a nice kick that complements the meatballs perfectly.
Creative Serving Ideas
The bread you choose can elevate your subs. Use crusty hoagie rolls or soft sub rolls. You can even try garlic bread for a fun twist. For a complete meal, pair your subs with a fresh salad or crispy fries. You can also serve with pickles or coleslaw for extra crunch. These sides add variety and make the meal more satisfying. For the full recipe, check out the detailed instructions.
Storage Info
Storing Leftover Meatballs
To keep your leftover meatballs fresh, store them in an airtight container. This helps to prevent drying out and keeps flavors intact. You can keep them in the fridge for about 3 to 4 days. If you want to store them longer, freeze them. Frozen meatballs can last up to 3 months if sealed properly. Make sure to label the container with the date so you know when they were stored.
Reheating Instructions
To reheat meatballs, the oven is the best method. Preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Place meatballs on a baking sheet and heat for about 15-20 minutes. This keeps them juicy and tasty. You can use a microwave for a quicker option. Just place them in a microwave-safe dish and cover. Heat for 1-2 minutes, but be careful, as this might make them chewy.
Freezing and Thawing Meatballs
You can freeze meatballs before or after cooking. If freezing raw, shape them into balls and place them on a baking sheet. Once frozen solid, transfer them to a freezer bag. For cooked meatballs, let them cool completely before freezing. To thaw, place meatballs in the fridge overnight. You can also use a microwave or cook them directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time. Following these tips keeps your meatballs delicious and ready for your savory meatball subs!
FAQs
How do I make homemade meatball subs less messy?
To keep your meatball subs neat, use sturdy rolls. A thicker sub roll supports the filling better. You can also slice the roll only halfway, creating a pocket. This helps hold the meatballs and sauce inside. Another tip is to layer cheese on top of the meatballs. It acts like a barrier, keeping sauce from spilling out. Using a napkin is always smart, too!
Can I make the meatballs ahead of time?
Yes, you can make meatballs ahead. Prepare your meatball mixture and form the meatballs. Place them on a baking sheet and freeze them. Once frozen, transfer to a freezer bag. They can last about three months. When ready to use, bake them straight from the freezer. This saves time on busy days.
What’s the best way to reheat meatball subs?
The best way to reheat meatball subs is in the oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Wrap the subs in foil to keep them moist. Heat for about 10-15 minutes. This method keeps the bread soft and the meatballs juicy. You can also use the microwave, but this may make the bread chewy.
What can I pair with homemade meatball subs?
Pair your meatball subs with a crisp salad. A simple green salad works great. You can also serve with sweet potato fries or chips. For drinks, try a nice soda or iced tea. A light beer or a glass of red wine also complements the flavors well. Enjoy your meal!
You now have a solid guide to making delicious meatball subs. We covered the required ingredients, from ground meats to marinara sauce. You learned how to prepare and shape meatballs, ensuring they’re moist and flavorful. With tips on broiling cheese and creative variations, your options are endless.
Enjoy your cooking and impress others with tasty meatball subs. Remember, practice makes perfect. Happy cooking!
