Meatball Sub Sandwiches: The Ultimate Guide to Making Delicious Homemade Variations

Meatball sub sandwiches are a delightful culinary creation that brings comfort and satisfaction in every bite. As I take a moment to savor this classic dish, I can’t help but reminisce about the countless family gatherings where these hearty sandwiches were the star of the show. Originating from Italian-American cuisine, the meatball sub has become a beloved staple in many households, celebrated for its rich flavors and satisfying textures.

What makes meatball sub sandwiches so irresistible is the perfect combination of tender, juicy meatballs nestled in a warm, crusty roll, topped with zesty marinara sauce and gooey melted cheese. The convenience of this dish also adds to its charm; it’s easy to prepare and can be enjoyed as a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing party food. It’s no wonder that meatball sub sandwiches have captured the hearts and taste buds of so many. Join me as we dive into this delicious recipe that promises to bring joy to your table!

Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1/2 pound ground pork
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 1 large egg
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 jar (24 ounces) marinara sauce
• 4 sub rolls
• 8 slices provolone cheese
• Olive oil for frying

Preparing the Meatballs

Let’s start by making the meatballs. This is the heart of our meatball sub sandwiches, and I promise you, they are going to be delicious!

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef and ground pork. I like to use a combination of meats for added flavor and texture, but you can stick to just beef if you prefer.
2. Add the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper to the bowl. These ingredients will give our meatballs a wonderful flavor.
3. Crack the egg into the mixture. The egg acts as a binder, helping to hold everything together.
4. Using your hands, mix everything together until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatballs tough.
5. Once mixed, form the mixture into meatballs, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. You should get around 16-20 meatballs, depending on the size you make them.

Cooking the Meatballs

Now that we have our meatballs ready, it’s time to cook them. This step is crucial for developing that rich, savory flavor.

1. In a large skillet, heat a couple of tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. You want enough oil to coat the bottom of the pan.
2. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the meatballs to the skillet. Make sure not to overcrowd the pan; you may need to do this in batches.
3. Cook the meatballs for about 5-7 minutes, turning them occasionally to brown all sides. You want a nice golden crust on the outside.
4. Once browned, remove the meatballs from the skillet and set them aside on a plate.

Simmering in Marinara Sauce

Next, we’ll simmer the meatballs in marinara sauce to infuse them with even more flavor.

1. In the same skillet, pour in the jar of marinara sauce. You can use homemade sauce if you have a favorite recipe, but store-bought works just fine!
2. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer over medium heat.
3. Once simmering, carefully add the browned meatballs back into the skillet. Make sure they are submerged in the sauce.
4. Cover the skillet and let the meatballs simmer in the sauce for about 20-25 minutes. This will ensure they are cooked through and absorb all that delicious flavor.

Preparing the Sub Rolls

While the meatballs are simmering, let’s prepare the sub rolls. This is where we’ll build our sandwiches!

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Slice the sub rolls in half lengthwise, but don’t cut all the way through; you want them to stay connected on one side.
3. Place the sub rolls on a baking sheet, cut side up.
4. If you like, you can brush a little olive oil or melted butter on the cut sides of the rolls for added flavor and crispiness.
5. Once the oven is preheated, place the baking sheet in the oven and toast the rolls for about 5-7 minutes, or until they are lightly golden and crispy.

Assembling the Meatball Subs

Now comes the fun part—assembling our meat

Conclusion:

In conclusion, these Meatball Sub Sandwiches are an absolute must-try for anyone looking to elevate their sandwich game. The combination of juicy, flavorful meatballs nestled in a soft, toasted sub roll, topped with gooey melted cheese and zesty marinara sauce, creates a mouthwatering experience that is hard to resist. Whether you’re serving them for a casual weeknight dinner, a game day feast, or a cozy gathering with friends, these sandwiches are sure to impress. For a fun twist, consider adding some sautéed peppers and onions for an extra layer of flavor, or switch up the cheese with provolone or pepper jack for a spicy kick. You can also make them a bit healthier by using turkey or chicken meatballs, or even a plant-based alternative for a vegetarian version. The possibilities are endless! I encourage you to give this Meatball Sub Sandwich recipe a try and make it your own. Once you’ve whipped up a batch, I’d love to hear about your experience! Share your thoughts, any variations you tried, or even a photo of your delicious creation. Let’s spread the love for these incredible sandwiches together! Print