Craving a tasty meal that’s quick to make? This delicious meatball sub recipe is the answer! In just a few steps, you’ll learn how to whip up juicy meatballs, fresh toppings, and all the right flavors. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or a casual weekend lunch, this satisfying recipe is sure to impress. Let’s dive in and make your taste buds happy!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients Overview
For the perfect meatball sub, you’ll need some key ingredients. Each one plays a big role in flavor and texture. Here’s what I use:
– 1 pound ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
– 1 cup breadcrumbs (Italian seasoned preferred)
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 large egg
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
– 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust for spice preference)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 jar (about 24 oz) marinara sauce
– 4 sub rolls or hoagie buns
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– Olive oil for frying
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish
These ingredients work together to create juicy, flavorful meatballs and a hearty sub.
Measurement Details
Getting the measurements right is key to great meatballs. Here are some details to help:
– Ground Beef: Use 1 pound for a good meat base. A beef and pork mix adds more flavor.
– Breadcrumbs: One cup helps to bind the meatballs. Italian seasoned gives extra taste.
– Parmesan Cheese: Half a cup adds a rich, salty flavor.
– Egg: One large egg helps hold everything together.
– Garlic: Use three cloves for a nice kick.
– Parsley: Two tablespoons add fresh flavor.
– Red Pepper Flakes: One teaspoon brings heat, but adjust to your taste.
– Marinara Sauce: A 24 oz jar covers the meatballs well.
– Sub Rolls: Four rolls hold the meatballs and sauce.
– Mozzarella Cheese: One cup melts beautifully on top.
Optional Add-ins
You can personalize your meatball subs with some fun add-ins. Here are a few ideas:
– Onions: Diced onions can add sweetness and depth.
– Bell Peppers: Sautéed bell peppers bring color and crunch.
– Spinach: Fresh spinach adds a healthy green touch.
– Olives: Chopped olives give a briny taste.
– Extra Herbs: Try adding oregano or thyme for more flavor.
Feel free to mix and match these optional add-ins to suit your taste. For the full recipe, check out the detailed instructions in the next section.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Meatball Mixture
Start by gathering your ingredients. You need ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic, parsley, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. In a large bowl, mix all these items together. Use your hands to ensure everything is well combined. The mixture should feel sticky but not too wet. This helps the meatballs hold their shape.
Cooking the Meatballs
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Once your mixture is ready, form it into golf ball-size meatballs. Place them on a baking sheet. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add meatballs in batches, cooking each side for about 3-4 minutes. They don’t need to be fully cooked yet. Transfer the browned meatballs to a baking dish, then pour marinara sauce over them. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20-25 minutes. Make sure the meatballs reach an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C).
Assembling the Meatball Subs
While the meatballs are baking, slice the sub rolls in half lengthwise. Be careful not to cut all the way through. After the meatballs are done, remove them from the oven. Place the rolls on a clean baking sheet. Fill each roll with 2-3 meatballs and add more marinara sauce on top. Generously sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the meatballs. Return the subs to the oven and bake for 5-7 minutes. The cheese should be bubbly and golden. Once done, garnish with fresh basil leaves. Serve hot and enjoy this delicious meal!
Tips & Tricks
How to Perfectly Brown Meatballs
To brown meatballs well, use a hot skillet. Heat olive oil over medium heat. Add meatballs in batches, leaving space between them. This helps them cook evenly. Brown each side for 3-4 minutes. Don’t worry if they aren’t cooked through. They will finish baking later in the oven. Perfectly browned meatballs add great flavor and texture to your sub.
Best Marinara Sauce Options
You have many choices for marinara sauce. Store-bought brands can save time. Look for sauces with simple ingredients. A homemade sauce can add a personal touch. For a quick option, choose a jar labeled “organic” or “no added sugar.” If you want to spice things up, try adding red pepper flakes or fresh herbs to the sauce. This will enhance the flavor of your meatball subs.
Cheese Choices for Topping
Cheese makes your meatball sub extra tasty. Mozzarella is a classic choice. It melts well and has a mild flavor. You can also mix in provolone or fontina for a richer taste. For a punch of flavor, consider adding Parmesan or Pecorino Romano on top. This adds a salty bite that pairs well with the marinara. A good blend of cheeses creates a delicious topping for your meatball sub.
Variations
Meat Alternatives: Turkey or Veggie Meatballs
You can easily swap beef for turkey in this recipe. Turkey meatballs are lighter and just as tasty. If you want a meat-free option, try veggie meatballs. They use ingredients like lentils or beans for protein. Both options keep the flavors strong and satisfying.
Flavor Enhancements: Adding Herbs and Spices
Herbs and spices can make your meatball sub stand out. Try adding basil, oregano, or thyme to the meat mixture. A pinch of smoked paprika can add depth. Feel free to adjust the red pepper flakes for more or less heat. These additions can turn a simple sub into something special.
Gluten-Free Sub Options
For gluten-free options, use gluten-free breadcrumbs. You can also find gluten-free rolls at most stores. This way, everyone can enjoy a delicious meatball sub without worry. Just ensure your marinara sauce is gluten-free too. It’s easy to make this meal accessible to all!
For the full recipe, check out the detailed steps provided earlier.
Storage Info
Refrigeration Details
You can keep meatball subs in the fridge for about three days. Store them in an airtight container to keep them fresh. If you leave them uncovered, they will dry out. Always let them cool down before sealing. This keeps the bread from getting soggy.
Freezing Meatball Subs
Freezing is a great way to save meatball subs. Wrap each sub in plastic wrap or foil. Then, place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can last up to three months in the freezer. When you are ready to eat, thaw them in the fridge overnight.
Reheating Guidelines
To reheat your meatball subs, you can use the oven or microwave. For the oven, preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Unwrap the subs and place them on a baking sheet. Heat for about 10-15 minutes until warm. If using a microwave, heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes. Be careful, as the bread can get chewy in the microwave. Enjoy them warm for the best taste! For the full recipe, check out the earlier sections.
FAQs
How long can I keep meatball subs in the fridge?
You can store meatball subs in the fridge for about three days. Make sure to wrap them tightly. This keeps them fresh and tasty. If you want, you can separate the meatballs from the bread. This helps prevent sogginess.
Can I make meatballs ahead of time?
Yes, you can make meatballs ahead of time. You can form them and freeze them. Just place them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to a bag. They can last up to three months in the freezer. When you’re ready, cook them straight from frozen. Just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
What can I serve with meatball subs?
You can pair meatball subs with many sides. A fresh salad with mixed greens is a great choice. You might also enjoy crispy fries or sweet potato wedges. For a lighter option, serve with steamed veggies. If you’re feeling adventurous, try a side of garlic knots for extra fun! For more ideas, check out the Full Recipe.
In this guide, I covered how to make tasty meatball subs. We explored key ingredients and measurement tips. You learned about cooking, assembling, and even great add-ins. I shared best practices for browning meatballs and choosing sauces and cheeses. Also, I provided fun variations like turkey and veggie options.
Remember, making these subs is easy and fun. Enjoy your cooking journey and get creative!
