Meatball Sub Recipe

Meatball Sub Recipe is a comforting and satisfying dish that can elevate any lunch or dinner. Juicy meatballs, rich marinara sauce, and melty cheese come together in a hoagie roll to create a sandwich that pleases everyone. Perfect for game days, family gatherings, or a quick weeknight meal, this recipe stands out not just in flavor but also in its heartiness. With minimal prep time, you can enjoy these delicious subs in no time!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This Meatball Sub Recipe takes only 20 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for busy nights.
• Flavor-Packed: The combination of Italian spices and cheeses creates a mouthwatering experience with every bite.
• Versatile Meal: Enjoy these subs for lunch, dinner, or even as party snacks—great for any occasion!
• Customizable Ingredients: Feel free to switch up the meat options or add veggies to suit your taste preferences.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike love the cheesy goodness and hearty flavors of these meatball subs.

Tools and Preparation

To make this Meatball Sub Recipe smoothly, ensure you have the right kitchen tools handy.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Baking Sheet
• Mixing Bowl
• Measuring Cups
• Grater
• Knife and Cutting Board

Why These Tools Matter

• Baking Sheet: Essential for toasting the hoagie rolls and melting the cheese evenly.
• Mixing Bowl: Necessary for combining all ingredients when making your meatballs.
• Measuring Cups: Accuracy helps achieve the best flavor balance in your marinara sauce and meat mixtures.

Ingredients

For the Hoagies

• 3 hoagie rolls
• 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

For the Meatballs

• 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 minded 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: Prepare the Meatball Mixture

In a mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, ground chicken, egg, soaked bread, minced onion, pressed garlic, basil, parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined but do not overmix.

Step 2: Form the Meatballs

Shape your mixture into small meatballs—about 1 inch in diameter. You should end up with approximately 12–15 meatballs.

Step 3: Cook the Meatballs

In a skillet over medium heat, cook the meatballs until browned on all sides. This should take about 7–10 minutes. Once done, transfer them to simmer in marinara sauce until cooked through.

Step 4: Assemble Your Subs

Preheat your oven broiler. Place hoagie rolls on a baking sheet. Fill each roll with cooked meatballs and spoon marinara sauce generously over them.

Step 5: Add Cheese & Broil

Top each sub with shredded mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan. Place them under the broiler for about 2–3 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 6: Garnish & Serve

Sprinkle dried oregano over the top before serving. Enjoy your delicious homemade Meatball Subs warm!

How to Serve Meatball Sub Recipe

Serving a Meatball Sub is all about enhancing the delicious flavors and textures of the ingredients. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your sandwich experience.

Classic Presentation

• Serve warm on a plate with extra marinara sauce on the side for dipping.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Sprinkle chopped fresh basil or parsley on top for a burst of color and flavor.

Add Extra Cheese

• Top with additional melted cheese right before serving for an extra cheesy experience.

Pair with Pickles

• Serve alongside dill pickles or pepperoncini for a tangy contrast to the rich meatballs.

Create a Combo Meal

• Offer your subs with a side of crispy fries or onion rings for a complete meal.

How to Perfect Meatball Sub Recipe

To achieve the ultimate Meatball Sub, consider the following tips for optimal flavors and textures.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh herbs and high-quality cheese to enhance the overall taste.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste your marinara sauce and meatballs, then adjust salt and pepper as needed for balance.
• Toast Your Rolls: Lightly toast your hoagie rolls before assembling to add crunch and prevent sogginess.
• Layer Smartly: Start with meatballs, then sauce, followed by cheese, ensuring everything melts together beautifully.
• Experiment with Flavors: Don’t hesitate to add spices like crushed red pepper flakes if you enjoy a bit of heat.

Best Side Dishes for Meatball Sub Recipe

A Meatball Sub pairs wonderfully with various side dishes that complement its flavors. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Garlic Bread: Crispy bread infused with garlic butter is perfect for soaking up extra sauce.
2. Caesar Salad: A light salad adds freshness and balances the richness of the subs.
3. Coleslaw: Creamy coleslaw provides a crunchy contrast and enhances the meal’s texture.
4. Potato Chips: Crunchy chips make for an easy and satisfying side that complements any sandwich.
5. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies roasted until tender can add a healthy touch to your meal.
6. Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit mix can cleanse the palate between bites of savory meatballs.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making a Meatball Sub can be simple, but there are common errors that can affect the outcome. Here are some mistakes to watch for:

• Using low-quality meat: Choosing poor-quality ground beef or chicken can lead to dry meatballs. Always select fresh, high-fat content meat for juicy and flavorful results.
• Overcooking the meatballs: Cooking the meatballs for too long can make them tough. Aim for a perfect balance by cooking just until they’re fully done while remaining tender.
• Neglecting the sauce: Skipping the marinara sauce can make the sub dry and less flavorful. Be generous with your sauce; it keeps everything moist and delicious.
• Skipping the cheese: Forgetting to add cheese will result in a less satisfying sandwich. Use plenty of melted mozzarella to elevate your Meatball Sub’s taste and texture.
• Not toasting the rolls: Serving the sandwich on cold rolls can ruin the experience. Toast your hoagie rolls slightly for a warm and crispy texture that holds up against the filling.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Meatball Subs in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 3 days in the fridge.

Freezing Meatball Sub Recipe

• Wrap individual subs tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Store them in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.

Reheating Meatball Sub Recipe

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the sub on a baking sheet and cover it with foil. Heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place the sub on a microwave-safe plate. Cover with a damp paper towel and heat for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add the sub and cover it, flipping occasionally until warmed through, about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Meatball Sub Recipe?

A Meatball Sub Recipe features tender meatballs in marinara sauce, served in a toasted hoagie roll topped with melted cheese. It’s a comforting and hearty meal.

Can I customize my Meatball Sub Recipe?

Absolutely! You can add various toppings such as peppers, onions, or different types of cheese based on your preference.

How do I make homemade Italian meatballs for my Meatball Sub Recipe?

To make homemade Italian meatballs, combine ground beef, ground chicken, breadcrumbs soaked in milk, grated Parmesan cheese, minced onion, garlic, herbs, and spices. Shape into balls and bake or fry until cooked through.

What’s the best way to serve my Meatball Sub Recipe?

Serve your Meatball Sub hot from the oven with extra marinara sauce on the side for dipping. Pair it with a salad or chips for an enjoyable meal.

Conclusion

The Meatball Sub is not only delicious but also versatile enough to suit various tastes. With customization options available—from adding extra toppings to experimenting with sauces—there’s always room to make it your own. Try this recipe at home and enjoy comfort food at its finest!