Meatball Sub Recipe

Meatball Sub Recipe is a delightful sandwich that brings the warm, hearty flavors of Italian cooking right to your table. Perfect for lunch or dinner, these meatball subs are easy to make and bursting with flavor. With tender meatballs, zesty marinara sauce, and melted cheese all nestled in a soft hoagie roll, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re hosting a game day gathering or simply craving a comforting meal, this recipe has you covered.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With just 20 minutes from start to finish, you can whip up these delicious meatball subs in no time.
• Flavor Packed: The combination of ground beef and chicken meatballs creates a rich and satisfying taste that everyone will enjoy.
• Customizable: Feel free to adjust the toppings or sauces based on your preferences—add some spicy peppers or switch up the cheese!
• Perfect for Leftovers: These meatballs are great for making ahead of time. Enjoy them on their own or in this sub for an easy meal.
• Family Friendly: Kids love the gooey cheese and savory meatballs, making it an ideal choice for family dinners.

Tools and Preparation

To create your Meatball Sub Recipe, having the right tools makes all the difference. Here are some essential kitchen tools you’ll need.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Baking sheet
• Mixing bowl
• Spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife and cutting board

Why These Tools Matter

• Baking sheet: This helps with even cooking of your meatballs in the oven.
• Mixing bowl: A large bowl allows you to combine all ingredients thoroughly for consistent flavor.
• Knife and cutting board: Essential for chopping onions and herbs efficiently.

Ingredients

To make these tasty meatball subs, gather the following ingredients:

For the Meatballs

• 3 hoagie rolls
• 12 Italian Meatballs (12-15 meatballs)
• 1 – 1.5 cup Marinara Sauce (homemade or store-bought)
• 3 tbsp fresh grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 – 1.5 cup thick shredded Mozzarella cheese
• 2 tsp dried oregano
• 1/2 lb ground beef (85%/15% preferably)
• 1/2 lb ground chicken
• 1 egg
• 1 thin slice of whole wheat bread soaked in milk (squeezed)
• 1/4 cup minced yellow onion
• 2 garlic cloves (pressed)
• 1 tbsp fresh minced basil
• 1/2 tbsp fresh minced parsley
• 1/2 – 1 tsp kosher coarse or sea salt (to taste)
• 1/8 – 1/4 tsp black pepper (to taste)

How to Make Meatball Sub Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This temperature ensures that your meatballs cook evenly while staying juicy.

Step 2: Prepare the Meatball Mixture

In a mixing bowl, combine:
* Ground beef
* Ground chicken
* Egg
* Squeezed whole wheat bread
* Minced yellow onion
* Pressed garlic
* Minced basil
* Minced parsley
* Dried oregano
* Salt and pepper

Mix everything together until well combined. Be careful not to overmix as this can make your meatballs tough.

Step 3: Form the Meatballs

Using your hands, form small balls from the mixture, about the size of a golf ball. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Step 4: Bake the Meatballs

Bake the meatballs in your preheated oven for about 15 minutes or until they are cooked through and browned on the outside.

Step 5: Assemble Your Subs

Once cooked, take your hoagie rolls and place a few meatballs inside each one. Pour over marinara sauce generously before topping with shredded mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan.

Step 6: Melt the Cheese

Return the assembled subs back to the oven for another 5 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 7: Serve Hot

Remove from oven, let cool slightly, then serve hot with extra marinara sauce on the side if desired. Enjoy your homemade Meatball Subs!

How to Serve Meatball Sub Recipe

Serving a Meatball Sub is all about enhancing its delicious flavors. Here are some fantastic suggestions to elevate your meal experience.

Pair with Fresh Salads

• Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce, Parmesan cheese, and creamy dressing add freshness.
• Caprese Salad: Juicy tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil create a vibrant side.

Enjoy with Crunchy Snacks

• Potato Chips: A classic choice that adds crunch and texture.
• Pickles: Tangy pickles provide a refreshing contrast to the savory meatballs.

Add Complementary Sauces

• Extra Marinara: Serve on the side for dipping or drizzling over the subs.
• Garlic Aioli: A creamy garlic dip can enhance the flavor profile of your sandwich.

How to Perfect Meatball Sub Recipe

Perfecting your Meatball Sub is easy with these helpful tips. Follow them for an unforgettable sandwich experience.

• Choose Quality Ingredients: Using fresh ground beef and chicken ensures optimal flavor and texture.
• Soak Bread for Moisture: Soaking whole wheat bread in milk keeps the meatballs juicy.
• Don’t Skimp on Cheese: Generous amounts of Mozzarella and Parmesan create an irresistible cheesy pull.
• Season Well: Adjust salt and pepper to taste for a well-balanced flavor in every bite.
• Heat Thoroughly: Ensure meatballs are heated through in marinara sauce for maximum flavor absorption.

Best Side Dishes for Meatball Sub Recipe

To complement your Meatball Sub, consider these delightful side dishes. Each one adds a unique touch to your meal.

1. Garlic Bread: Perfectly toasted with butter and garlic, it’s great for mopping up sauce.
2. Fries: Crispy fries are a crowd-pleaser that pairs well with any sandwich.
3. Coleslaw: A tangy slaw adds crunch and balances the richness of the sub.
4. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies bring color and nutrients to your plate.
5. Tomato Soup: A warm bowl of soup is comforting and pairs nicely with the sub’s flavors.
6. Stuffed Peppers: These can be filled with rice or quinoa for a hearty side option.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making a Meatball Sub can be easy, but there are some common pitfalls. Here are mistakes to steer clear of for a perfect sandwich.

• Using dry meatballs: Ensure your meatballs are moist and flavorful. If they have dried out, consider simmering them in marinara sauce before assembling the sub.
• Overloading on sauce: While sauce adds flavor, too much can make the sub soggy. Use just enough to coat the meatballs without overwhelming the bread.
• Skipping the cheese: Cheese is essential for that gooey, melty texture. Don’t skip it; opt for thick shredded Mozzarella for the best results.
• Choosing the wrong bread: Not all breads hold up well in a Meatball Sub. Select sturdy hoagie rolls that can support the weight of the ingredients and won’t fall apart.
• Not seasoning properly: A bland sub is unappealing. Season your meat mixture well with salt and pepper, and don’t forget fresh herbs for an added flavor boost.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Meatball Subs in airtight containers.
• They can last up to 3 days in the refrigerator without losing quality.

Freezing Meatball Sub Recipe

• Wrap individual subs tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place wrapped subs in a freezer-safe bag or container to prevent freezer burn.
• They will keep well for up to 2 months in the freezer.

Reheating Meatball Sub Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Wrap the sub in foil and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat on medium power for about 1-2 minutes until heated through.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, covered, flipping occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Meatball Sub Recipe?

A Meatball Sub Recipe features tender meatballs served in a hoagie roll with marinara sauce and melted cheese, making it a hearty meal.

Can I use different meats in my Meatball Sub Recipe?

Absolutely! You can experiment with ground turkey, chicken, or even lamb to create different flavors.

How do I customize my Meatball Sub Recipe?

Add your favorite toppings like pickles, peppers, or additional spices to personalize your sandwich experience.

How long does it take to prepare this Meatball Sub Recipe?

This recipe takes about 5 minutes of prep time and approximately 15 minutes of cooking time, totaling around 20 minutes.

Conclusion

This Meatball Sub Recipe is not only delicious but also versatile. Feel free to customize it with your favorite cheeses or spices. It’s perfect for lunch or a casual dinner—give it a try!

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