Classic Italian Meatball Sub Recipe

Are you in the mood for a satisfying sandwich that combines savory meatballs with rich marinara? The Italian Meatball Sub is a delightful option that brings together the best of both worlds: hearty meatballs nestled in a warm, toasty roll, all smothered in a zesty tomato sauce. It’s the perfect comfort food to enjoy during a casual gathering or as a quick weeknight dinner.

This recipe is a crowd-pleaser, ideal for feeding a hungry family or a group of friends. You can customize it with your favorite toppings, whether that’s melted cheese, fresh basil, or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to add some heat. The combination of flavors and textures will have everyone asking for seconds.

Preparation of Juicy Meatballs

Creating the perfect meatballs is essential for a satisfying Italian Meatball Sub. Begin by gathering high-quality ground beef and mix it with breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, and fresh parsley. The addition of garlic and Italian herbs will elevate the flavor profile.

Once the ingredients are combined, form them into small, uniform meatballs. This ensures even cooking and a delightful texture. Browning the meatballs in a skillet adds a rich layer of flavor before they are simmered in the marinara sauce.

Simmering in Flavorful Marinara Sauce

The marinara sauce serves as the heart of this dish. As the meatballs cook in the sauce, they absorb all the delicious flavors, creating a harmonious blend. Use a good-quality store-bought sauce or make your own for a homemade touch.

Allow the meatballs to simmer in the sauce for about 10-15 minutes. This step is crucial as it not only ensures the meatballs are heated through but also allows the sauce to thicken and coat the meatballs beautifully.

Assembling the Sub

After preparing the meatballs and sauce, it’s time to assemble the Italian Meatball Sub. Slice the crusty sub rolls and lay them on a baking sheet. Fill each roll generously with meatballs and sauce, ensuring each bite is packed with flavor.

Don’t skimp on the mozzarella cheese! A generous handful on top will melt perfectly in the oven, creating a gooey topping that complements the savory flavors of the meatballs. This is where the dish truly shines.

Baking to Golden Perfection

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the assembled subs inside. Bake until the cheese is melted and bubbly, which typically takes around 10-15 minutes. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will have everyone eagerly awaiting their meal.

The baking process not only melts the cheese but also allows the bread to toast slightly, adding to the overall texture of the sandwich. A crispy exterior with a soft interior makes each bite enjoyable.

Serving Suggestions

Once out of the oven, let the Italian Meatball Subs cool for a moment before serving. You can garnish them with additional chopped parsley for a fresh touch. Consider pairing the subs with crispy potato chips for a delightful crunch.

A small bowl of marinara sauce on the side is perfect for dipping. The combination of flavors and textures in this meal is sure to impress anyone at the table, whether it’s a casual family dinner or a gathering with friends.

Nutrition and Satisfying Portions

This recipe yields four satisfying subs, making it ideal for family meals or entertaining guests. Each sub contains about 520 calories, with a balanced distribution of protein and carbohydrates, ensuring you feel fulfilled without overindulging.

With 30 grams of protein per serving, these Italian Meatball Subs provide a hearty meal that can be enjoyed any day of the week. They’re not just filling; they bring comfort and warmth to any dining experience.

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 1 egg
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 4 sub rolls
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• Olive oil for cooking

Instructions

1. Prepare the Meatballs: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, egg, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined, then form into meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.
2. Cook the Meatballs: In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add meatballs and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.
3. Simmer in Sauce: In the same skillet, add marinara sauce and bring to a simmer. Return meatballs to the skillet and let them cook in the sauce for another 10-15 minutes until heated through.
4. Assemble the Subs: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Slice the sub rolls and place them on a baking sheet. Fill each roll with meatballs and sauce, then top with shredded mozzarella cheese.
5. Bake: Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Serve: Remove from the oven, let cool slightly, and then serve hot, garnished with additional parsley if desired.

Cook and Prep Times

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes

Nutrition Information

• Servings: 4 subs
• Calories: 520kcal
• Fat: 25g
• Protein: 30g
• Carbohydrates: 40g