Picture this: a warm, toasted sub overflowing with juicy meatballs, melted cheese, and rich marinara sauce. The aroma wafts through the kitchen, making your stomach growl in anticipation. Meatball subs are not just sandwiches; they’re a comforting hug on a plate that can turn even the dreariest of days into a feast. Whether you’re hosting friends or enjoying a cozy night in, these delicious creations bring smiles and satisfaction to every bite.
Now, think back to family gatherings where laughter mingled with the smell of bubbling marinara. I still remember the first time my mom served homemade meatball subs at our Sunday dinner—everyone clamored for seconds! They’re perfect for game nights or casual get-togethers, ensuring everyone leaves with a happy belly and a smile.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These meatball subs are easy to prepare and make for an unforgettable meal
- They burst with flavor from the tender meatballs and zesty sauce
- With their appetizing presentation, they’ll impress any guest at your dinner table
- Perfect for casual dining yet versatile enough for special occasions!
One time, my friend brought his girlfriend over for dinner. Little did we know that meatball subs would become their love language that night!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Ground Beef: Choose a blend with some fat for juicy and flavorful meatballs.
Italian Seasoning: This blend adds depth and aromatic flavors to your meatballs.
Breadcrumbs: Use plain or Italian-style breadcrumbs to bind the mixture together while adding texture.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated adds richness and enhances the overall flavor profile of the meatballs.
Garlic Cloves: Fresh minced garlic infuses the meatballs with an irresistible aroma.
Marinara Sauce: Opt for your favorite jarred sauce or make it from scratch for ultimate flavor.
Sub Rolls: Soft hoagie rolls are ideal for holding all those savory fillings together.
Mozzarella Cheese: Shredded mozzarella melts beautifully, creating that gooey cheesiness we all crave.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Create Your Meatball Mixture: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Italian seasoning, Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined; overmixing can lead to tough meatballs.
Shape Those Meatballs: Wet your hands slightly and scoop out portions of the mixture. Roll them into 1 to 1.5-inch balls; they should feel firm yet tender in your hand.
Sear the Meatballs: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add meatballs carefully without overcrowding; cook until browned on all sides—about 5 to 7 minutes—releasing mouthwatering aromas.
Add Marinara Sauce**: Pour marinara sauce over browned meatballs in the skillet. Cover and let simmer on low heat for 15 minutes until cooked through; this allows flavors to meld beautifully.
Prep Your Sub Rolls**: While your meatballs simmer away like they’re having a spa day, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Slice sub rolls down the center but don’t cut all the way through; you want them to hold their shape.
Assemble Your Subs**: Place cooked meatballs generously into each roll using tongs or a slotted spoon. Top with plenty of gooey mozzarella cheese before placing them on a baking sheet.
Bake Until Golden**: Pop those loaded beauties into your preheated oven for about 10 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and starting to brown slightly—oh boy!
Now you’ve created an unforgettable meal that’s sure to impress anyone lucky enough to dig in! Enjoy every mouthful of flavor as you savor these delightful meatball subs that carry memories along with each bite!
You Must Know
- Meatball subs are the ultimate comfort food, combining juicy meatballs and rich marinara
- Experiment with cheese for extra flavor, and don’t forget the toasted bread for that perfect crunch
- The aroma of baking subs will have everyone flocking to the kitchen!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by simmering your marinara sauce while you bake the meatballs. This allows flavors to meld together beautifully.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap ground beef for turkey or add spices like crushed red pepper for a kick. Personalize your subs!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover meatball subs in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat in the oven for a crispy finish.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To achieve perfectly tender meatballs, avoid overmixing the meat mixture
- Adding breadcrumbs helps absorb moisture and keeps them juicy
- Toasting your bread adds delightful crunch, elevating your sub experience immensely
Sharing meatball subs with friends during game night always brings laughter and full bellies. They never fail to compliment my cooking skills, which warms my heart every time!
FAQ
Can I freeze meatball subs?
Yes, you can freeze assembled or separate components for future meals.
What cheese pairs best with meatball subs?
Mozzarella is traditional, but provolone or parmesan add unique flavors too.
How do I make meatballs spicy?
Add crushed red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños into the meat mixture for heat.
Delicious Meatball Subs
Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with these mouthwatering meatball subs. Each toasted sub is filled with tender, flavorful meatballs smothered in rich marinara sauce and topped with gooey melted mozzarella. Perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in, these subs deliver warmth and satisfaction in every bite.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (plain or Italian)
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 4 soft hoagie rolls
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Olive oil for cooking
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Italian seasoning, Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined.
- Wet your hands and form the mixture into meatballs (1 to 1.5 inches).
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and sear meatballs until browned on all sides (about 5 to 7 minutes).
- Pour marinara sauce over the meatballs and simmer covered on low heat for 15 minutes.
- Meanwhile, preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Slice sub rolls down the center without cutting all the way through.
- Place cooked meatballs in the rolls, top with mozzarella cheese, and place on a baking sheet.
- Bake for about 10 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 sub (approximately 250g)
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 950mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
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