Are you ready to whip up a delicious homemade meatball sub? In this post, I’ll share my easy recipe that’s packed with flavor. You’ll learn how to blend simple ingredients like ground beef, marinara sauce, and cheese into perfect meatballs. Plus, I’ll include tips for making them just right and serving suggestions that will impress everyone. Let’s dive into this tasty adventure and bring the comfort of homemade food to your table!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese
– 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
The main ingredients create the heart of the meatball sub. Ground beef gives you a rich flavor. Breadcrumbs help hold the meatballs together, making them tender. Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese adds a sharp taste. Marinara sauce ties everything together with its savory goodness.
Optional Ingredients
– 2 cloves garlic
– Fresh basil leaves
– Olive oil
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
You can enhance your meatball subs with optional ingredients. Garlic adds a fragrant touch. Fresh basil leaves bring brightness to the dish. A drizzle of olive oil helps cook the meatballs perfectly. Shredded mozzarella cheese melts beautifully on top, creating that gooey texture we love.
Recommended Tools
– Large mixing bowl
– Skillet
– Baking sheet
– Oven thermometer
Having the right tools makes cooking easier. A large mixing bowl helps you combine the meatball mix well. A skillet is key for browning the meatballs. A baking sheet holds your subs while they bake. An oven thermometer ensures your oven is at the right temp for perfect results.
For the full recipe, check out the complete guide!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Steps
– Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
– In a large bowl, mix the following meatball ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Use your hands to combine the meatball mix well. Don’t overwork it; that can make the meat tough.
Cooking Process
– Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add a drizzle of olive oil.
– Shape the meat mixture into golf ball-sized meatballs, about 1.5 inches wide. You’ll get around 16 meatballs.
– Cook the meatballs in batches. Turn them occasionally. They should brown on all sides in about 8-10 minutes. Remove them from the skillet and set aside.
– In the same skillet, pour in the jar of marinara sauce. Add the browned meatballs back in. Reduce the heat and let them simmer for 15-20 minutes. This makes the meatballs flavorful and ensures they are cooked through.
Final Assembly
– Slice the sub rolls down the middle, but do not cut all the way through.
– Place 3-4 meatballs in each roll. Spoon some marinara sauce over the meatballs for extra flavor.
– Generously sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese on top of each meatball sub.
– Place the assembled subs on a baking sheet. Bake them in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes. Look for the cheese to melt and bubble.
– Once done, remove them from the oven and garnish with fresh basil leaves. Enjoy your homemade meatball subs! For more details, check out the Full Recipe.
Tips & Tricks
Meatball Perfection
To avoid tough meatballs, do not overwork the meat when mixing. Gently combine the ingredients. Use a mix of ground beef and pork for flavor. The pork adds fat, which keeps the meatballs juicy.
Sauce Enhancements
You can add spices and herbs to the marinara sauce. Try adding crushed red pepper for heat or fresh basil for brightness. Making your own homemade marinara is easy and rewarding. Just sauté garlic in olive oil, add crushed tomatoes, and season.
Serving Suggestions
For ideal side dishes, serve with a simple salad or crispy fries. Pair your subs with a cold soda or iced tea. These drinks balance the rich flavors of the meatballs and sauce.
Variations
Ingredient Alternatives
You can swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken. Both options are leaner. They still give you tasty meatballs. If you want a meat-free choice, use lentils or chickpeas. These vegan or vegetarian substitutes work well in the same recipe. Just mash them to create a meatball-like texture.
Flavor Twists
Want more kick? Add crushed red pepper flakes to your meatball mix. This will make spicy meatballs that burst with flavor. If you prefer a different vibe, try barbecue-style meatballs. Just mix barbecue sauce into the marinara. It changes the whole taste and takes your subs to a new level.
Serving Styles
You can enjoy your meatballs in many ways. For fun appetizers, make bite-sized meatball sliders. Use small rolls and serve them at parties. If you love cheese, try different types on your subs. Provolone or cheddar can change the flavor profile. Each option adds a unique twist to your meal.
Storage Info
Refrigeration
To store leftover meatball subs, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or foil. You can also use an airtight container. This keeps them fresh and ready for later. Store them in the fridge for up to three days. After that, the bread might get soggy, and the meatballs may lose flavor.
Freezing
You can freeze meatballs before or after baking. For raw meatballs, place them on a baking sheet and freeze until firm. Then, transfer them to a freezer bag. This way, you can cook them later. If you freeze baked meatballs, let them cool first. Store them in a freezer-safe container for up to three months.
To thaw, move the meatballs to the fridge overnight. If you need them fast, place them in cold water for an hour. To reheat, bake them in the oven at 350°F until warm.
Reheating
The best methods for reheating meatball subs include using the oven or microwave. The oven keeps the bread crisp. Preheat your oven to 350°F and place the subs on a baking sheet. Heat for about 10-15 minutes.
If you use a microwave, wrap the subs in a damp paper towel. This helps prevent sogginess. Heat in short bursts of 30 seconds, checking after each. Enjoy your meatball subs warm and tasty! For the full recipe, check the previous sections.
FAQs
Common Questions
How can I make meatball subs without breadcrumbs?
You can use oats or crushed crackers instead of breadcrumbs. This keeps the meatballs moist. If you want a gluten-free option, try ground nuts or gluten-free breadcrumbs. Each choice adds a unique flavor and texture.
Can I prepare meatballs ahead of time?
Yes! You can mix and shape the meatballs a day before. Just store them in the fridge. You can also freeze them. Freeze uncooked meatballs on a baking sheet, then transfer to a bag. They last for about three months.
Cooking Questions
What is the best way to cook meatballs?
I recommend browning meatballs in a skillet first. This adds flavor and texture. After browning, simmer them in sauce until cooked through. This method keeps them juicy and tender.
How do I know when meatballs are done cooking?
Use a meat thermometer! Meatballs should reach 160°F (71°C) inside. If you don’t have one, cut a meatball in half. The center should be no longer pink, and the juices should run clear.
Serving Questions
Can meatball subs be served cold?
While I prefer them hot, you can serve meatball subs cold. They may taste different, but it can be a fun twist. Just ensure the meatballs are fully cooked first.
How do I customize my meatball sub?
Get creative! You can add peppers, onions, or different cheeses. Try spicy sauce or pesto for a new flavor. You can also switch the bread type, using a hoagie roll or a baguette. Enjoy experimenting!
In this post, I shared how to make delicious meatball subs. We covered key ingredients like ground beef, breadcrumbs, and marinara sauce. I also shared tips for perfect meatballs and various serving suggestions. Remember, you can personalize your subs with options like turkey or veggies. Enjoy your cooking adventure! With these steps and tips, you’ll create mouthwatering meatball subs that everyone will love.
