Oh my goodness, are you ready for a taste sensation? Let me tell you about one of my all-time favorite comfort foods: Meatball Subs! There’s just something magical about sinking your teeth into a toasty hoagie roll loaded with juicy, savory meatballs, tangy marinara sauce, and that ooey-gooey melted mozzarella that can bring a smile to any face.
I have vivid memories of cozy nights spent with friends, gathered around a table piled high with these bad boys, each one dripping with sauce and laughter. The best part? They’re super easy to whip up! Whether it’s game day, a casual get-together, or just because I’m craving something hearty, these Meatball Subs never let me down. Plus, you can customize them however you like—add some peppers, maybe some jalapeños if you’re feeling spicy, or even a drizzle of your favorite hot sauce—the possibilities are endless!
What’s in Meatball Subs?
Let’s break down the delicious ingredients that come together to create this mouthwatering masterpiece.
Ground Beef: This is the star of our show! I typically go for 80/20 ground beef for the perfect balance of flavor and juiciness.
Breadcrumbs: They help bind our meatballs and add the perfect texture. I prefer plain breadcrumbs, but seasoned can give a little extra kick.
Grated Parmesan Cheese: Just a little bit of this lovely cheese goes a long way in adding flavor to our meatballs — and who doesn’t love cheese?
Fresh Parsley: A handful of this herb not only enhances the flavor but also adds a pop of color to our subs.
Large Egg: This helps bind everything together, making sure our meatballs hold their shape during cooking.
Garlic: Because life is too short for bland food! Freshly minced garlic adds a fantastic aroma and flavor.
Onion Powder: A dash of onion powder brings a subtle sweetness and depth to our meatball mixture.
Dried Oregano: This classic Italian herb is a must-have—it adds that familiar, comforting flavor we all crave in a meatball.
Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance all the flavors and tie the dish together.
Marinara Sauce: The sauce is like a warm hug for our meatballs, enveloping them in rich, tomato goodness. I recommend jarred marinara or homemade if you’re feeling adventurous!
Hoagie Rolls or Sub Buns: These soft rolls are the perfect vessel for holding all that deliciousness together. I like to use fresh baked from the bakery for the best flavor.
Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: The pièce de résistance! Melty and gooey, it tops off our subs with a cheesy finish.
Fresh Basil Leaves: A lovely garnish that adds a fresh, aromatic touch. If you’ve got it, use it!
Is Meatball Subs Good for You?
Now, let’s chat about the health aspect of our beloved Meatball Subs. While they are, admittedly, indulgent, they do have a few redeeming qualities!
Ground Beef: Packed with protein and iron, you’re getting a solid dose of nutrition here. Just remember to opt for leaner cuts if you’re watching your fat intake.
Fresh Parsley: This green herb is not only flavorful but also loaded with vitamins K, C, and A, plus it has antioxidants that help fight disease.
Garlic: It’s known for its many health benefits, including boosting immunity and reducing blood pressure. So, you’re basically helping your body while enjoying your meal!
On the flip side, you’ll want to be mindful of the sodium content—especially if using store-bought marinara sauce and rolls. As with anything in life, balance is key!
Ingredients for Meatball Subs
This recipe serves about 4 people, perfect for a small gathering or a cozy night in:
– 12 oz ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
– 1 large egg
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cups marinara sauce
– 4 hoagie rolls or sub buns
– 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish
How to Make Meatball Subs?
Alright, let’s dive into the cooking part! Here’s how to make these glorious Meatball Subs:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Get that oven nice and warm!
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, parsley, egg, garlic, onion powder, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix until everything is well combined—get in there and use your hands; it’s more fun that way!
3. Form the mixture into meatballs, roughly 1.5 inches in diameter. You should get about 12 melt-in-your-mouth meatballs.
4. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the meatballs until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. No need to cook them all the way through just yet; we’ll finish them off in the sauce. Drain any excess grease while you’re at it.
5. Pour the marinara sauce over the meatballs in the skillet, cover, and let them simmer for 10-15 minutes, until the meatballs are cooked through and luscious.
6. While the meatballs are getting cozy in the sauce, split the hoagie rolls and lay them out on a baking sheet.
7. Place three meatballs on each roll and spoon some marinara sauce over them. Top with a generous amount of shredded mozzarella cheese—because who doesn’t want more cheese?
8. Bake those beauties in the preheated oven for about 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is all melty and bubbly.
9. Remove from the oven and garnish with fresh basil leaves for a beautiful finish.
10. Serve hot and enjoy your mouthwatering Meatball Subs with friends and family!
Delicious Tips and Variations for Meatball Subs
Alright, here’s where we can get a little creative!
– For a bit of extra flavor, you could mix in some Italian sausage with your ground beef.
– Love some heat? Add red pepper flakes to your meatball mix or sprinkle them on top.
– Feeling adventurous? Try adding caramelized onions or sautéed peppers into the mix or as a topping.
– You could even turn these into a baked pasta dish by mixing cooked pasta with the meatballs and marinara, then topping with cheese and baking—yum!
I hope you give these Meatball Subs a whirl! They’re a guaranteed crowd-pleaser and perfect for those cozy nights in or even a fun dinner with friends. Trust me, once you take that first bite, you’ll be hooked! Let me know how they turn out; I can’t wait to hear all about your meaty adventures!
