If you’re searching for a comforting and satisfying meal, look no further than this meatball subs recipe. Perfectly seasoned meatballs are nestled in a soft sub roll, topped with marinara sauce and melted cheese. This hearty dish is ideal for lunch or dinner and is sure to please the whole family. Get ready to indulge in the savory goodness of homemade meatball subs!
Ingredients
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped parsley
– 1 egg
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
– 4 sub rolls
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe yields 4 servings. Preparation time is approximately 15 minutes, and cooking time is about 30 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 sub) contains approximately: 450 calories, 20g protein, 25g carbohydrates, 30g fat, and 3g fiber.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, egg, garlic, salt, and pepper.
- Mix the ingredients until well combined.
- Form the mixture into golf ball-sized meatballs.
- Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a little oil.
- Brown the meatballs on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add marinara sauce to the skillet and simmer for 15 minutes.
- Split the sub rolls and place them on a baking sheet.
- Place 3 meatballs in each roll and spoon extra sauce on top.
- Sprinkle mozzarella cheese over the meatballs.
- Bake in the oven for 10 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute ground beef with turkey or chicken for a lighter option. Use gluten-free breadcrumbs for a gluten-free version, and opt for a vegan cheese alternative if desired.
Serving and Pairings
Meatball subs pair beautifully with a side of crispy fries or a fresh salad. Consider serving with pickles or a tangy coleslaw for added crunch.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover meatball subs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the microwave or oven until warmed through. These subs can be frozen for up to 3 months; just thaw and reheat before serving.
Cooking Mistakes
- Overmixing the meatball mixture can lead to tough meatballs.
- Not browning the meatballs can result in a lack of flavor.
- Using stale breadcrumbs may affect the texture.
- Skipping the simmering step can make the meatballs dry.
- Not preheating the oven can lead to uneven cooking.
Helpful Tips
- Let the meatball mixture rest for 10 minutes before forming meatballs.
- Use a cookie scoop for uniform meatballs.
- Experiment with different herbs for varied flavors.
- Consider adding grated zucchini for extra moisture.
FAQs
Can I make meatballs ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the meatballs in advance and refrigerate them until ready to cook. This will save time on busy days and allow the flavors to meld.
What type of bread is best for meatball subs?
A soft sub roll or hoagie bread works best as it holds the meatballs and sauce without falling apart. You can also use baguettes for a crunchier texture.
How can I spice up the meatball subs?
For a spicy kick, add red pepper flakes to the meatball mixture or use spicy marinara sauce. Toppings like sliced jalapeños can also add heat.
Can I use store-bought meatballs?
Absolutely! Store-bought meatballs can save time. Just heat them in the sauce and assemble the subs as directed.
How do I know when meatballs are done?
Meatballs are fully cooked when they reach an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C). You can check with a meat thermometer for accuracy.
Conclusion
Meatball subs are a delightful and hearty meal that anyone can make at home. With a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create a dish that is not only delicious but also comforting. Enjoy making these flavorful subs for your family and friends!
Meatball Subs
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped parsley
- 1 egg
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 jar 24 oz marinara sauce
- 4 sub rolls
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, egg, garlic, salt, and pepper.
- Mix the ingredients until well combined.
- Form the mixture into golf ball-sized meatballs.
- Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a little oil.
- Brown the meatballs on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add marinara sauce to the skillet and simmer for 15 minutes.
- Split the sub rolls and place them on a baking sheet.
- Place 3 meatballs in each roll and spoon extra sauce on top.
- Sprinkle mozzarella cheese over the meatballs.
- Bake in the oven for 10 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Nutrition
