Melissa McCarthy’s Holiday Meatball Sandwiches: A Festive Feast!
Get ready to deck the halls and your taste buds with a recipe that’s as warm and inviting as a holiday hug! We’re diving into the delicious world of Melissa McCarthy’s Holiday Meatball Sandwiches. These aren’t your average meatball subs; they’re a festive explosion of flavor that’s perfect for holiday gatherings, cozy nights in, or even a potluck contribution that will have everyone singing your praises.
Melissa McCarthy, known for her infectious humor and down-to-earth personality, brings that same spirit to her cooking. This meatball sandwich recipe is all about comfort, flavor, and sharing good times with loved ones. It’s easy enough for even novice cooks to tackle, yet impressive enough to wow even the most discerning palates. Prepare to be the star of your holiday celebrations!
Why These Meatball Sandwiches are a Holiday Must-Have
Before we jump into the recipe, let’s talk about why these meatball sandwiches deserve a prime spot on your holiday menu:
* **Flavor Explosion:** From the savory meatballs to the tangy sauce and the creamy cheese, every bite is a symphony of flavors that will leave you wanting more.
* **Perfect for Sharing:** These sandwiches are ideal for feeding a crowd. They’re easy to assemble, customizable, and always a hit.
* **Make-Ahead Friendly:** You can prepare the meatballs and sauce ahead of time, making assembly a breeze when it’s time to serve.
* **Comfort Food at its Finest:** Nothing says “holiday cheer” quite like a warm, satisfying meatball sandwich. It’s the ultimate comfort food that everyone will love.
* **Melissa McCarthy Approved:** Need we say more? Melissa’s recipes are known for being approachable, delicious, and crowd-pleasing.
The Star of the Show: The Meatballs
Let’s start with the heart of the sandwich: the meatballs. This recipe focuses on creating juicy, flavorful meatballs that are tender on the inside and slightly crispy on the outside.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 pound ground beef (80/20 blend is recommended for flavor and moisture)
* 1/2 pound ground pork (adds richness and depth of flavor)
* 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko or Italian-style work well)
* 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (adds salty, savory notes)
* 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (for freshness and color)
* 2 cloves garlic, minced (essential for flavor)
* 1 large egg, lightly beaten (binds the ingredients together)
* 1/4 cup milk (adds moisture and tenderness)
* 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (for that classic Italian flavor)
* 1/2 teaspoon salt (enhances the other flavors)
* 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (adds a subtle kick)
* 2 tablespoons olive oil (for browning the meatballs)
**Instructions:**
1. **Combine Ingredients:** In a large bowl, gently combine the ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, garlic, egg, milk, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in tough meatballs. Use your hands to gently incorporate all the ingredients until just combined.
2. **Shape the Meatballs:** Using your hands or a small ice cream scoop, form the mixture into meatballs about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Place the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier.
3. **Brown the Meatballs:** Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the meatballs to the skillet in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Brown the meatballs on all sides until they are nicely browned and slightly crispy. Browning adds a wonderful depth of flavor to the meatballs. If you overcrowd the pan, the meatballs will steam instead of brown.
4. **Bake the Meatballs (Optional):** While browning adds great flavor, baking the meatballs ensures they are cooked through, especially if you’re making a large batch. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the browned meatballs to a baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until they are cooked through. The internal temperature of the meatballs should reach 160°F (71°C). Alternatively, you can skip the baking and let the meatballs finish cooking in the sauce.
**Tips for Perfect Meatballs:**
* **Don’t Overmix:** Overmixing the meatball mixture will result in tough meatballs. Mix gently until just combined.
* **Use a Combination of Meats:** Using a combination of ground beef and ground pork adds richness and depth of flavor.
* **Add Moisture:** Milk helps keep the meatballs tender and moist.
* **Brown the Meatballs:** Browning the meatballs before adding them to the sauce adds a wonderful depth of flavor.
* **Don’t Overcrowd the Pan:** When browning the meatballs, don’t overcrowd the pan. This will cause them to steam instead of brown.
The Sauce That Makes It Sing
No meatball sandwich is complete without a flavorful sauce. This sauce is a simple yet delicious blend of tomatoes, herbs, and spices that perfectly complements the meatballs.
**Ingredients:**
* 2 tablespoons olive oil
* 1 onion, chopped
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
* 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
* 1 (6 ounce) can tomato paste
* 1 teaspoon dried oregano
* 1 teaspoon dried basil
* 1/2 teaspoon salt
* 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
* 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
* 1 tablespoon sugar (to balance the acidity of the tomatoes)
* 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil (for freshness and flavor, added at the end)
**Instructions:**
1. **Sauté Aromatics:** Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as this will make the sauce bitter.
2. **Add Tomatoes and Seasonings:** Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, oregano, basil, salt, pepper, red pepper flakes (if using), and sugar. Bring the sauce to a simmer.
3. **Simmer the Sauce:** Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for at least 30 minutes, or up to an hour, stirring occasionally. The longer the sauce simmers, the more the flavors will meld together. If the sauce becomes too thick, add a little water or broth to thin it out.
4. **Add Meatballs and Finish:** Gently add the browned meatballs to the sauce. Cover and simmer for another 15-20 minutes, or until the meatballs are heated through and the flavors have melded. Stir in the fresh basil just before serving.
**Tips for a Delicious Sauce:**
* **Use High-Quality Tomatoes:** The quality of your tomatoes will greatly impact the flavor of your sauce. Use high-quality canned tomatoes for the best results.
* **Don’t Skip the Sugar:** A little sugar helps balance the acidity of the tomatoes and create a more well-rounded flavor.
* **Simmer for a Long Time:** Simmering the sauce for at least 30 minutes allows the flavors to meld together and creates a richer, more complex sauce.
* **Taste and Adjust Seasonings:** Taste the sauce and adjust the seasonings as needed. You may want to add more salt, pepper, or herbs to suit your taste.
Assembling the Masterpiece: The Sandwich
Now for the fun part: assembling the meatball sandwiches! This is where you get to customize your creation and make it your own.
**Ingredients:**
* 12 submarine rolls or hoagie rolls (choose your favorite type)
* 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (or provolone, or a blend)
* Grated Parmesan cheese (for topping)
* Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
* Optional toppings: sliced provolone cheese, roasted red peppers, giardiniera, pesto
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Rolls:** Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Slice the submarine rolls lengthwise, being careful not to cut all the way through. You want to create a hinge so you can open the roll like a book.
2. **Fill the Rolls:** Spoon a generous amount of the meatball and sauce mixture into each roll. Make sure to distribute the meatballs evenly. Top with shredded mozzarella cheese (or your cheese of choice).
3. **Bake the Sandwiches:** Place the filled sandwiches on a baking sheet and bake for 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Keep a close eye on them to prevent burning.
4. **Garnish and Serve:** Remove the sandwiches from the oven and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh parsley. Serve immediately.
**Tips for Perfect Sandwiches:**
* **Use Fresh Rolls:** Fresh, soft rolls are essential for a great meatball sandwich.
* **Don’t Overfill the Rolls:** Overfilling the rolls will make them difficult to eat. Use a generous amount of meatballs and sauce, but don’t overdo it.
* **Melt the Cheese:** Melting the cheese is crucial for a gooey, satisfying sandwich. Bake the sandwiches until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
* **Get Creative with Toppings:** Don’t be afraid to get creative with your toppings! Add roasted red peppers, giardiniera, or pesto for extra flavor.
Customization and Variations
The beauty of this recipe is that it’s incredibly versatile. Feel free to experiment with different ingredients and variations to make it your own.
* **Different Meats:** Try using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef and pork. You can also use a combination of all three.
* **Spicy Meatballs:** Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the meatball mixture for a little heat.
* **Vegetarian Option:** Substitute the meat with plant-based ground meat alternatives, or use a mixture of lentils and vegetables.
* **Different Cheeses:** Experiment with different cheeses, such as provolone, fontina, or even a sharp cheddar.
* **Garlic Bread:** Before adding the meatballs and sauce, brush the inside of the rolls with garlic butter and toast them in the oven.
* **Open-Faced Sandwiches:** Instead of slicing the rolls, serve the meatballs and sauce over toasted bread slices.
* **Mini Meatball Sliders:** Use smaller rolls and make mini meatball sliders for appetizers or parties.
* **Slow Cooker Meatballs:** For an even easier option, cook the meatballs in the sauce in a slow cooker. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
Serving Suggestions
These meatball sandwiches are a meal in themselves, but they can also be served with a variety of sides.
* **Salad:** A simple green salad with a vinaigrette dressing is a refreshing complement to the rich sandwiches.
* **Coleslaw:** Creamy coleslaw adds a nice crunch and tang to the meal.
* **Potato Salad:** Classic potato salad is always a crowd-pleaser.
* **Pasta Salad:** A light and flavorful pasta salad is a great side dish.
* **French Fries:** Crispy French fries are a classic pairing with meatball sandwiches.
* **Onion Rings:** Sweet and savory onion rings add a touch of indulgence.
* **Pickles:** Pickles provide a tangy contrast to the rich flavors of the sandwiches.
Make-Ahead Tips
One of the best things about this recipe is that it can be made ahead of time, making it perfect for busy holiday schedules.
* **Meatballs:** The meatballs can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, or in the freezer for up to 2 months. Reheat them in the sauce before serving.
* **Sauce:** The sauce can also be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, or in the freezer for up to 2 months. Reheat it gently before adding the meatballs.
* **Assembly:** You can assemble the sandwiches ahead of time, but don’t bake them until just before serving. Store the assembled sandwiches in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Add a few extra minutes to the baking time to ensure they are heated through.
Storage Instructions
Leftover meatball sandwiches can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or store them in an airtight container. Reheat them in the oven or microwave before serving.
A Recipe for Joy and Togetherness
Melissa McCarthy’s Holiday Meatball Sandwiches are more than just a recipe; they’re an invitation to gather around the table, share laughter, and create lasting memories. This holiday season, ditch the stress and embrace the joy of cooking with loved ones. These sandwiches are guaranteed to be a hit with everyone, from kids to adults. So, fire up the stove, gather your ingredients, and get ready to create a festive feast that will warm your heart and soul.
The Recipe Card
**Yields:** 12 sandwiches
**Prep Time:** 30 minutes
**Cook Time:** 45 minutes
**Ingredients:**
**For the Meatballs:**
* 1 pound ground beef (80/20 blend)
* 1/2 pound ground pork
* 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko or Italian-style)
* 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
* 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1 large egg, lightly beaten
* 1/4 cup milk
* 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
* 1/2 teaspoon salt
* 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
* 2 tablespoons olive oil
**For the Sauce:**
* 2 tablespoons olive oil
* 1 onion, chopped
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
* 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
* 1 (6 ounce) can tomato paste
* 1 teaspoon dried oregano
* 1 teaspoon dried basil
* 1/2 teaspoon salt
* 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
* 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
* 1 tablespoon sugar
* 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
**For the Sandwiches:**
* 12 submarine rolls or hoagie rolls
* 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
* Grated Parmesan cheese, for topping
* Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
* Optional toppings: sliced provolone cheese, roasted red peppers, giardiniera, pesto
**Instructions:**
**Make the Meatballs:**
1. In a large bowl, gently combine the ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, garlic, egg, milk, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
2. Shape the mixture into meatballs about 1 1/2 inches in diameter.
3. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Brown the meatballs on all sides.
4. (Optional) Bake the browned meatballs in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes.
**Make the Sauce:**
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Sauté the onion until softened. Add the garlic and cook until fragrant.
2. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, oregano, basil, salt, pepper, red pepper flakes (if using), and sugar. Bring to a simmer.
3. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for at least 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Gently add the browned meatballs to the sauce. Cover and simmer for another 15-20 minutes.
5. Stir in the fresh basil.
**Assemble the Sandwiches:**
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Slice the submarine rolls lengthwise.
2. Spoon a generous amount of the meatball and sauce mixture into each roll. Top with shredded mozzarella cheese.
3. Bake for 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
4. Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh parsley. Serve immediately.
Enjoy your delicious and festive Melissa McCarthy-inspired Holiday Meatball Sandwiches! They’re perfect for sharing with family and friends during the holiday season.