Meatball Subs: Tasty Recipe for a Quick Meal

Craving a quick meal that packs a punch? Let’s dive into the world of meatball subs! This tasty recipe combines juicy meatballs, rich marinara, and gooey cheese—all stuffed into fresh sub rolls. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or feeding a crowd, these subs are simple and delicious. Join me as we explore the ingredients and steps to make a mouthwatering meatball sub in no time!

Ingredients

Main Ingredients for Meatball Subs

– Ground beef and pork mix

– Breadcrumbs and Parmesan

– Seasonings: garlic, onion powder, oregano, parsley

For a tasty meatball sub, you need a mix of meats. I love using ground beef and pork. This combo gives the meatballs a nice flavor. You will also need breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese. Breadcrumbs help the meatballs hold together. Parmesan adds a rich, cheesy taste.

Seasonings are key. I use garlic for a strong taste. Onion powder gives a sweet flavor. Oregano adds a fresh, herby note. Lastly, fresh parsley brightens up the mix. These simple ingredients make the meatballs very tasty.

Additional Ingredients

– Marinara sauce

– Sub rolls

– Mozzarella cheese and fresh basil

Next, you will need marinara sauce. This sauce is rich and full of flavor. It pairs well with the meatballs.

Sub rolls are essential too. Choose soft, sturdy rolls that can hold the meat.

Finally, top each sub with mozzarella cheese. It melts beautifully and adds creaminess. Fresh basil leaves make the dish look nice and add a pop of flavor. You can find the full recipe [here](Full Recipe).

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Meatballs

1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This helps cook the meatballs evenly.

2. Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, chopped parsley, beaten egg, minced garlic, onion powder, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix everything well until it forms a nice blend.

3. Shape the Meatballs: Use your hands to form the mixture into meatballs that are about the size of golf balls. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

4. Bake the Meatballs: Put the baking sheet in the oven. Bake the meatballs for 20-25 minutes, or until they are cooked through and golden brown. The smell will be amazing!

Assembling the Subs

1. Heat Marinara Sauce: While the meatballs bake, pour your marinara sauce into a saucepan. Heat it over medium heat until warm.

2. Combine with Meatballs: Once the meatballs are done, gently add them to the sauce. Let them simmer together for about five minutes. This makes sure the flavors blend well.

3. Slice Sub Rolls: Take your sub rolls and slice them in half without cutting all the way through. This keeps them intact and ready to fill.

4. Fill with Meatball Mixture: Spoon the meatballs and sauce into each sub roll. Make sure to pack them in well so each sub is full of tasty goodness.

Final Touches

1. Add Cheese: Top each filled sub with a handful of shredded mozzarella cheese. This will melt beautifully when broiled.

2. Broil Subs: Place the subs on a baking sheet and slide them under the broiler. Broil for 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Keep a close eye on them to avoid burning!

3. Garnish and Serve: Once they are done, take them out of the oven. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for a pop of color and flavor. Serve hot and enjoy!

You can find the Full Recipe for these hearty meatball subs to guide you in making this delicious meal.

Tips & Tricks

Perfecting the Meatballs

To make meatballs that are juicy and flavorful, you need to focus on moisture. Here are some best practices:

Add breadcrumbs: Breadcrumbs help absorb moisture and keep the meatballs soft.

Use grated cheese: Parmesan cheese adds flavor and helps with moisture.

Don’t overmix: Mix just enough to combine. Overmixing can make them tough.

If you want to switch up the ingredients, here are some substitutions:

Meat options: Try ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.

Breadcrumbs: Use crushed crackers or oats if you don’t have breadcrumbs.

Herbs: Fresh herbs can replace dried ones for a fresher taste.

Serving Suggestions

Pair your meatball subs with tasty side dishes. Here are some ideas:

Salads: A simple green salad or a Caesar salad works great.

Chips: Serve with potato chips or a side of fries for crunch.

For drinks, consider these pairings:

Soda: A cold soda goes well with the savory flavors.

Beer: A light lager or ale complements the meal nicely.

These tips will help you create the perfect meatball sub. For a full recipe, check the detailed instructions above.

Variations

Different Meat Options

You can switch up the meat in your meatball subs. Instead of beef, try turkey or chicken. These options are leaner and great for a lighter meal. If you want to go meatless, use vegetarian meatballs made from lentils or chickpeas. They are tasty and packed with protein.

Bread Choices

The bread you use can change the whole dish. Sub rolls are classic, but you can use ciabatta or hoagie rolls for a twist. If you need gluten-free options, look for gluten-free rolls or wraps. They taste great and still hold all those yummy meatballs and sauce.

Unique Flavor Profiles

Want to add some zing? Try spices like crushed red pepper or smoked paprika. You can also explore different sauces. BBQ sauce or pesto can give your sub a fun spin. Regional variations exist too. For example, in Italy, you might find a meatball sub topped with rich marinara and fresh basil. Each option adds new flavors to your meal.

For the complete recipe, check the [Full Recipe].

Storage Info

Storing Leftovers

To keep your meatball subs fresh, wrap each sub in foil or plastic wrap. This keeps them from drying out. Place the wrapped subs in an airtight container. Store them in the fridge for up to three days. If you want to save them longer, freeze the meatballs and sauce separately. This helps keep their flavor and texture.

For freezing, let the meatballs cool completely. Then, place them in a freezer-safe bag. Remove as much air as possible before sealing. You can freeze the sauce too! Store it in a different bag or container. Meatballs and sauce can last up to three months in the freezer.

Reheating Guidelines

To reheat meatball subs, the best method is using an oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Wrap each sub in foil to keep them moist. Heat for about 15 minutes. This will warm them evenly without making them soggy.

If you prefer the microwave, place the sub on a plate. Cover it with a damp paper towel. Heat in short bursts of 30 seconds. Check often to avoid overcooking. For the best texture, the oven is the way to go. Enjoy your delicious meatball subs, even the next day!

FAQs

How long do meatball subs last in the fridge?

Meatball subs can last about 3 to 4 days in the fridge. Make sure to store them in an airtight container. This helps keep them fresh and tasty. Always check for any signs of spoilage before eating.

Can I make meatballs ahead of time?

Yes, you can make meatballs ahead of time. Prepare the meatballs, let them cool, then freeze them. You can freeze them for up to 3 months. When you want to use them, thaw in the fridge overnight. This makes quick meals easy!

What can I use instead of marinara sauce?

You can try several sauces instead of marinara. Barbecue sauce adds a sweet twist. Alfredo sauce gives a creamy texture. You can also use pesto for a fresh taste. Each sauce brings a unique flavor to your meatball sub.

How do I prevent soggy bread?

To keep your bread from getting soggy, toast the sub rolls lightly. You can also add a thin layer of cheese or a spread to create a barrier. Avoid adding hot meatballs directly to the bread. This helps maintain a good texture.

What is the best way to season meatballs?

Seasoning is key to great meatballs. Use salt and pepper for basic flavor. Adding garlic and onion powder enhances the taste. Fresh herbs like parsley or basil add a nice touch. Experiment with spices like paprika or cumin for a twist.

You now know how to create delicious meatball subs. We covered the right mix of meats, seasonings, and additional ingredients. I shared tips for perfecting the meatballs and suggested ways to vary your subs. Don’t forget the storage and reheating tips for leftovers.

Meatball subs are fun to make, easy to customize, and perfect for any occasion. Enjoy your cooking and savor each bite!

- Ground beef and pork mix - Breadcrumbs and Parmesan - Seasonings: garlic, onion powder, oregano, parsley For a tasty meatball sub, you need a mix of meats. I love using ground beef and pork. This combo gives the meatballs a nice flavor. You will also need breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese. Breadcrumbs help the meatballs hold together. Parmesan adds a rich, cheesy taste. Seasonings are key. I use garlic for a strong taste. Onion powder gives a sweet flavor. Oregano adds a fresh, herby note. Lastly, fresh parsley brightens up the mix. These simple ingredients make the meatballs very tasty. - Marinara sauce - Sub rolls - Mozzarella cheese and fresh basil Next, you will need marinara sauce. This sauce is rich and full of flavor. It pairs well with the meatballs. Sub rolls are essential too. Choose soft, sturdy rolls that can hold the meat. Finally, top each sub with mozzarella cheese. It melts beautifully and adds creaminess. Fresh basil leaves make the dish look nice and add a pop of flavor. You can find the full recipe [here](Full Recipe). 1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This helps cook the meatballs evenly. 2. Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, chopped parsley, beaten egg, minced garlic, onion powder, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix everything well until it forms a nice blend. 3. Shape the Meatballs: Use your hands to form the mixture into meatballs that are about the size of golf balls. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. 4. Bake the Meatballs: Put the baking sheet in the oven. Bake the meatballs for 20-25 minutes, or until they are cooked through and golden brown. The smell will be amazing! 1. Heat Marinara Sauce: While the meatballs bake, pour your marinara sauce into a saucepan. Heat it over medium heat until warm. 2. Combine with Meatballs: Once the meatballs are done, gently add them to the sauce. Let them simmer together for about five minutes. This makes sure the flavors blend well. 3. Slice Sub Rolls: Take your sub rolls and slice them in half without cutting all the way through. This keeps them intact and ready to fill. 4. Fill with Meatball Mixture: Spoon the meatballs and sauce into each sub roll. Make sure to pack them in well so each sub is full of tasty goodness. 1. Add Cheese: Top each filled sub with a handful of shredded mozzarella cheese. This will melt beautifully when broiled. 2. Broil Subs: Place the subs on a baking sheet and slide them under the broiler. Broil for 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Keep a close eye on them to avoid burning! 3. Garnish and Serve: Once they are done, take them out of the oven. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for a pop of color and flavor. Serve hot and enjoy! You can find the Full Recipe for these hearty meatball subs to guide you in making this delicious meal. To make meatballs that are juicy and flavorful, you need to focus on moisture. Here are some best practices: - Add breadcrumbs: Breadcrumbs help absorb moisture and keep the meatballs soft. - Use grated cheese: Parmesan cheese adds flavor and helps with moisture. - Don't overmix: Mix just enough to combine. Overmixing can make them tough. If you want to switch up the ingredients, here are some substitutions: - Meat options: Try ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version. - Breadcrumbs: Use crushed crackers or oats if you don’t have breadcrumbs. - Herbs: Fresh herbs can replace dried ones for a fresher taste. Pair your meatball subs with tasty side dishes. Here are some ideas: - Salads: A simple green salad or a Caesar salad works great. - Chips: Serve with potato chips or a side of fries for crunch. For drinks, consider these pairings: - Soda: A cold soda goes well with the savory flavors. - Beer: A light lager or ale complements the meal nicely. These tips will help you create the perfect meatball sub. For a full recipe, check the detailed instructions above. {{image_2}} You can switch up the meat in your meatball subs. Instead of beef, try turkey or chicken. These options are leaner and great for a lighter meal. If you want to go meatless, use vegetarian meatballs made from lentils or chickpeas. They are tasty and packed with protein. The bread you use can change the whole dish. Sub rolls are classic, but you can use ciabatta or hoagie rolls for a twist. If you need gluten-free options, look for gluten-free rolls or wraps. They taste great and still hold all those yummy meatballs and sauce. Want to add some zing? Try spices like crushed red pepper or smoked paprika. You can also explore different sauces. BBQ sauce or pesto can give your sub a fun spin. Regional variations exist too. For example, in Italy, you might find a meatball sub topped with rich marinara and fresh basil. Each option adds new flavors to your meal. For the complete recipe, check the [Full Recipe]. To keep your meatball subs fresh, wrap each sub in foil or plastic wrap. This keeps them from drying out. Place the wrapped subs in an airtight container. Store them in the fridge for up to three days. If you want to save them longer, freeze the meatballs and sauce separately. This helps keep their flavor and texture. For freezing, let the meatballs cool completely. Then, place them in a freezer-safe bag. Remove as much air as possible before sealing. You can freeze the sauce too! Store it in a different bag or container. Meatballs and sauce can last up to three months in the freezer. To reheat meatball subs, the best method is using an oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Wrap each sub in foil to keep them moist. Heat for about 15 minutes. This will warm them evenly without making them soggy. If you prefer the microwave, place the sub on a plate. Cover it with a damp paper towel. Heat in short bursts of 30 seconds. Check often to avoid overcooking. For the best texture, the oven is the way to go. Enjoy your delicious meatball subs, even the next day! Meatball subs can last about 3 to 4 days in the fridge. Make sure to store them in an airtight container. This helps keep them fresh and tasty. Always check for any signs of spoilage before eating. Yes, you can make meatballs ahead of time. Prepare the meatballs, let them cool, then freeze them. You can freeze them for up to 3 months. When you want to use them, thaw in the fridge overnight. This makes quick meals easy! You can try several sauces instead of marinara. Barbecue sauce adds a sweet twist. Alfredo sauce gives a creamy texture. You can also use pesto for a fresh taste. Each sauce brings a unique flavor to your meatball sub. To keep your bread from getting soggy, toast the sub rolls lightly. You can also add a thin layer of cheese or a spread to create a barrier. Avoid adding hot meatballs directly to the bread. This helps maintain a good texture. Seasoning is key to great meatballs. Use salt and pepper for basic flavor. Adding garlic and onion powder enhances the taste. Fresh herbs like parsley or basil add a nice touch. Experiment with spices like paprika or cumin for a twist. You now know how to create delicious meatball subs. We covered the right mix of meats, seasonings, and additional ingredients. I shared tips for perfecting the meatballs and suggested ways to vary your subs. Don't forget the storage and reheating tips for leftovers. Meatball subs are fun to make, easy to customize, and perfect for any occasion. Enjoy your cooking and savor each bite!

Meatball Subs

Satisfy your cravings with this quick and delicious meatball subs recipe! Packed with juicy meatballs, flavorful marinara, and melted cheese on fresh sub rolls, this meal is perfect for any occasion. Find out how to create these mouthwatering subs with simple ingredients and easy steps. Perfect for busy weeknights or gatherings, these meatball subs are sure to impress. Click to explore the full recipe and start cooking today!

Ingredients
  

1 lb ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)

1 cup breadcrumbs

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

1 egg, beaten

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 tsp onion powder

1 tsp dried oregano

Salt and pepper to taste

1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce

4 sub rolls

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

    Make the Meatballs: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, beaten egg, minced garlic, onion powder, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.

      Shape the Meatballs: Form the mixture into golf ball-sized meatballs and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

        Bake the Meatballs: Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until they are cooked through and nicely browned.

          Heat the Marinara Sauce: While the meatballs are baking, heat the marinara sauce in a saucepan over medium heat. Once warmed, add the baked meatballs to the sauce and allow them to simmer for about 5 minutes.

            Prepare the Subs: Slice the sub rolls in half without cutting all the way through. Spoon some meatballs and sauce into each sub roll, ensuring each is generously filled.

              Add Cheese: Top each sub with a handful of shredded mozzarella cheese.

                Broil Subs: Transfer the subs to a baking sheet and place them under the broiler for about 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Keep a close eye to avoid burning!

                  Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven, and garnish with fresh basil leaves. Serve hot.

                    Prep Time: 15 mins | Total Time: 50 mins | Servings: 4

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