Ultimate Meatball Sub Sandwich Recipe: From Scratch to Scrumptious
Meatball sub sandwiches are a classic comfort food, perfect for a casual lunch, a hearty dinner, or even a game day gathering. This recipe takes you through every step of creating the ultimate meatball sub, from crafting juicy, flavorful meatballs from scratch to assembling the perfect sandwich with gooey cheese and a tangy marinara sauce. Get ready for a truly satisfying and delicious experience!
## Why This Recipe Works
* **From-Scratch Flavor:** Making your own meatballs allows you to control the ingredients and create a depth of flavor that store-bought versions simply can’t match.
* **Perfectly Balanced Sauce:** The homemade marinara sauce complements the richness of the meatballs, adding brightness and acidity.
* **Customizable:** This recipe provides a solid foundation, but you can easily adapt it to your preferences by adding different cheeses, herbs, or spices.
* **Easy to Follow:** The instructions are clear and concise, making it accessible for cooks of all skill levels.
## Ingredients
### For the Meatballs:
* 1 pound ground beef (80/20 blend for optimal flavor and moisture)
* 1/2 pound ground pork (optional, but adds richness)
* 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko or Italian-style)
* 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
* 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh parsley
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1 large egg, lightly beaten
* 1/4 cup milk
* 1 teaspoon dried oregano
* 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
* 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a touch of heat)
* Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
* 2 tablespoons olive oil, for browning
### For the Marinara Sauce:
* 1 tablespoon olive oil
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
* 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
* 1 teaspoon dried oregano
* 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
* 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
* 1/2 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
* Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
### For the Sandwiches:
* 4-6 hoagie rolls or sub rolls
* 8-12 ounces mozzarella cheese, sliced or shredded
* Grated Parmesan cheese, for garnish (optional)
* Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)
## Equipment
* Large bowl
* Skillet or Dutch oven
* Baking sheet (optional, for baking meatballs)
* Large saucepan
* Cutting board
* Knife
## Instructions
### Part 1: Making the Meatballs
1. **Combine Ingredients:** In a large bowl, combine ground beef, ground pork (if using), breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, minced garlic, egg, milk, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatballs tough. Gently combine until just incorporated.
2. **Shape the Meatballs:** Using your hands or a cookie scoop, form the mixture into 1-1.5 inch meatballs. Aim for consistent size so they cook evenly.
3. **Brown the Meatballs (Stovetop Method):** Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Working in batches, brown the meatballs on all sides. This step adds flavor and helps them hold their shape. Remove the browned meatballs from the skillet and set aside.
4. **Bake the Meatballs (Optional):** For a slightly healthier option, you can bake the meatballs instead of frying. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 160°F (71°C).
### Part 2: Making the Marinara Sauce
1. **Sauté Garlic:** In the same skillet or Dutch oven you used to brown the meatballs (or in a separate large saucepan), heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
2. **Add Tomatoes and Seasonings:** Pour in crushed tomatoes and tomato sauce. Stir in oregano, basil, red pepper flakes (if using), sugar (if using), salt, and pepper. Bring the sauce to a simmer.
3. **Simmer the Sauce:** Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for at least 30 minutes, or up to 1 hour. The longer it simmers, the more the flavors will meld together. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
### Part 3: Combining Meatballs and Sauce
1. **Add Meatballs to Sauce:** Gently add the browned (or baked) meatballs to the simmering marinara sauce. Make sure the meatballs are mostly submerged in the sauce.
2. **Simmer Together:** Cover and simmer for another 15-20 minutes, allowing the meatballs to fully cook through and absorb the flavors of the sauce. Stir occasionally.
### Part 4: Assembling the Meatball Sub Sandwiches
1. **Prepare the Rolls:** Preheat your oven’s broiler. Split the hoagie rolls or sub rolls horizontally, being careful not to cut all the way through.
2. **Fill with Meatballs and Sauce:** Spoon meatballs and plenty of sauce into each roll. Don’t be shy; you want a generous filling.
3. **Add Cheese:** Top with mozzarella cheese slices or shredded mozzarella. Use as much or as little as you like.
4. **Broil (Optional):** Place the filled sandwiches on a baking sheet and broil for 1-2 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Watch carefully to prevent burning.
5. **Garnish and Serve:** Remove the meatball subs from the oven. Garnish with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves (if using). Serve immediately and enjoy!
## Tips and Tricks for the Best Meatball Sub
* **Don’t Overmix the Meatballs:** Overmixing can lead to tough meatballs. Gently combine the ingredients until just incorporated.
* **Use Quality Ingredients:** The quality of your ingredients will directly impact the flavor of your meatballs and sauce. Use good quality ground beef and canned tomatoes.
* **Brown the Meatballs:** Browning the meatballs adds a depth of flavor and helps them hold their shape during simmering.
* **Simmer the Sauce:** Simmering the sauce for a longer period allows the flavors to meld together and creates a richer, more complex sauce.
* **Toast the Rolls:** Toasting the rolls before adding the meatballs and sauce will prevent them from getting soggy.
* **Add a Touch of Heat:** If you like a little spice, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the meatballs or the sauce.
* **Use a Variety of Cheeses:** Experiment with different cheeses, such as provolone, fontina, or a blend of Italian cheeses.
* **Make it Ahead:** You can make the meatballs and sauce ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat before assembling the sandwiches.
* **Freeze for Later:** Cooked meatballs can be frozen for up to 3 months. Allow them to cool completely before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag or container.
## Variations and Substitutions
* **Turkey Meatballs:** Substitute ground turkey for ground beef for a leaner option.
* **Vegetarian Meatballs:** Use a vegetarian meatball recipe or store-bought vegetarian meatballs.
* **Different Breads:** Use different types of bread, such as ciabatta rolls or French bread.
* **Spicy Marinara Sauce:** Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the marinara sauce.
* **Creamy Marinara Sauce:** Stir in a dollop of cream cheese or heavy cream to the marinara sauce for a richer, creamier sauce.
* **Garlic Bread Rolls:** Brush the insides of the rolls with garlic butter before toasting them.
* **Add Vegetables:** Sauté some onions, peppers, or mushrooms and add them to the sauce for extra flavor and nutrients.
## Serving Suggestions
Meatball sub sandwiches are delicious on their own, but they also pair well with a variety of sides.
* **Salad:** A simple green salad with a vinaigrette dressing provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the sandwich.
* **Coleslaw:** Creamy coleslaw is another classic side dish that complements the flavors of the meatball sub.
* **Potato Chips:** Crispy potato chips are a quick and easy side dish that everyone loves.
* **French Fries:** For a heartier meal, serve the meatball subs with French fries or sweet potato fries.
* **Onion Rings:** Crispy onion rings are another great option for a side dish.
* **Soup:** A bowl of tomato soup or minestrone soup is a comforting addition to the meal.
* **Garlic Knots:** Soft and garlicky knots of bread are perfect for soaking up the extra sauce.
## Nutritional Information (Approximate)
Nutritional information will vary depending on the specific ingredients used and the portion size. However, a typical meatball sub sandwich made with this recipe will contain approximately:
* Calories: 600-800
* Fat: 30-40g
* Saturated Fat: 15-20g
* Cholesterol: 150-200mg
* Sodium: 1000-1500mg
* Carbohydrates: 60-80g
* Fiber: 5-8g
* Sugar: 10-15g
* Protein: 30-40g
## How to Store Leftovers
Leftover meatball subs 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 in the oven or microwave until heated through.
To store the meatballs and sauce separately, allow them to cool completely before transferring them to airtight containers. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat the sauce and meatballs separately before assembling the sandwiches.
## Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
**Q: Can I use frozen meatballs?**
A: Yes, you can use frozen meatballs in this recipe. However, homemade meatballs will always taste better. If using frozen meatballs, thaw them completely before adding them to the sauce.
**Q: Can I make the meatballs and sauce ahead of time?**
A: Yes, you can make the meatballs and sauce ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
**Q: Can I freeze the meatballs?**
A: Yes, cooked meatballs can be frozen for up to 3 months. Allow them to cool completely before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag or container.
**Q: What kind of bread is best for meatball subs?**
A: Hoagie rolls or sub rolls are the most common choices for meatball subs. Ciabatta rolls or French bread can also be used.
**Q: What kind of cheese is best for meatball subs?**
A: Mozzarella cheese is the classic choice for meatball subs. Provolone, fontina, or a blend of Italian cheeses can also be used.
**Q: How do I prevent the rolls from getting soggy?**
A: Toasting the rolls before adding the meatballs and sauce will help prevent them from getting soggy.
**Q: Can I add vegetables to the sauce?**
A: Yes, you can add sautéed onions, peppers, or mushrooms to the sauce for extra flavor and nutrients.
## Conclusion
This meatball sub sandwich recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. By making the meatballs and sauce from scratch, you can create a truly exceptional sandwich that’s packed with flavor. With its customizable options and easy-to-follow instructions, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. So gather your ingredients, fire up the stove, and get ready to enjoy the ultimate meatball sub experience!