Description
Meatball Sub Sandwich with Marinara and Cheese
Ingredients:
For the meatballs:
1 lb ground beef or pork
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
1 large egg
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp dried basil
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tbsp olive oil
For the sandwich:
4 sub rolls
1 1/2 cups marinara sauce
1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
Make the meatballs:
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a large bowl, combine ground beef (or pork), breadcrumbs, parmesan, egg, garlic, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Mix until fully combined.
Form the mixture into 1-2 inch meatballs and place them on a baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil.
Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until cooked through.
Heat the marinara sauce:
While the meatballs are baking, heat the marinara sauce in a saucepan over medium heat until warmed through.
Assemble the sandwiches:
Once the meatballs are ready, slice the sub rolls and lightly toast them in the oven for 2-3 minutes.
Spoon some marinara sauce into each sub roll, add a few meatballs, and spoon more sauce on top.
Top with shredded mozzarella cheese and return the sandwiches to the oven for 3-5 minutes until the cheese melts and is bubbly.
Serve:
Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.
Enjoy your cheesy and flavorful meatball sub sandwich!
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for a perfect sub. First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large bowl, gently mix all meatball ingredients except the oil until just combined—overmixing creates tough meatballs. Roll 1-2 inch balls and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil for better browning. Bake for 20-25 minutes, turning halfway, until internal temperature reaches 160°F. While baking, gently warm your marinara sauce. Split and lightly toast the sub rolls. To assemble, layer a spoonful of sauce in the roll, add 3-4 meatballs, spoon more sauce over them, and top generously with cheese. Broil for 2-3 minutes until cheese is perfectly melted and bubbly.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your meatball sub immediately for the best texture. Pair it with a crisp side salad to cut through the richness, or classic garlic breadsticks for the ultimate comfort meal. For a casual gathering, slice the subs into smaller, manageable portions for easy sharing. A cold beer or sparkling lemonade makes an excellent beverage pairing.
How-to Summary
To summarize: mix meatball ingredients gently, form into balls, and bake at 375°F for 20-25 mins. Warm marinara sauce separately. Lightly toast split sub rolls, then assemble with sauce, meatballs, more sauce, and mozzarella. Finally, broil briefly to melt the cheese and serve hot.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make the meatballs ahead of time? Absolutely. Cook and cool the meatballs completely, then store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the sauce before assembling.
What’s the best way to prevent a soggy roll? Lightly toasting the interior of the roll before adding any ingredients creates a crucial moisture barrier.
Can I use a different cheese? Yes. Provolone offers a sharper flavor, while a Monterey Jack blend provides excellent melt. A sprinkle of parmesan on top adds a salty finish.
How do I freeze these sandwiches? Assemble the subs without broiling, wrap tightly in foil, and freeze for up to 1 month. Bake from frozen at 375°F for 25-30 minutes.
What if I don’t have breadcrumbs? Rolled oats or crushed crackers are good substitutes. For a gluten-free option, use almond flour or gluten-free panko.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid overmixing the meatball mixture, as it compacts the meat and leads to dense, tough meatballs. Do not skip toasting the rolls, which prevents sogginess. Ensure your meatballs are fully cooked (160°F internal temperature) before assembling. Finally, do not over-sauce the sandwich; too much liquid will make it messy and compromise the roll’s structure.
Conclusion
This meatball sub sandwich is a hearty, crowd-pleasing classic that combines savory meatballs, rich marinara, and melted cheese in a perfectly toasted roll. By following the step-by-step guide and avoiding common pitfalls, you can easily create a restaurant-quality meal at home. It’s a versatile recipe perfect for a quick family dinner or a game-day feast. Enjoy the delicious, comforting results of your effort!