Meatball Sub Sandwiches

Name: Meatball Sub Sandwich
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef (80/20); 1 cup Italian-style breadcrumbs; ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese; ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley; 1 tsp salt; ½ tsp black pepper; 4 sub rolls; 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp dried oregano; 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

By Elisa Levine

April 7, 2025

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The aroma of freshly baked bread mingling with the savory scent of richly flavored meatballs fills the air. Imagine sinking your teeth into a Meatball Sub Sandwich, where every bite is a delightful explosion of flavors and textures that dance on your palate.

This iconic sandwich has a special place in my heart. I remember the first time I devoured one at a neighborhood food festival. The combination of warm, gooey cheese melting over succulent meatballs left me dreaming about it for weeks. Whether it’s game day, a family gathering, or just an ordinary Tuesday that needs some magic, this Meatball Sub Sandwich is the perfect companion to elevate any occasion.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

You can whip up these Meatball Sub Sandwiches quickly, making them perfect for busy weeknights
The rich flavors blend beautifully for an unforgettable taste experience
Their mouthwatering appearance will impress everyone at your table
These sandwiches are versatile switch up the toppings or sauces based on your mood or pantry ingredients

One Sunday afternoon, my friends and I had a mini Meatball Sub Sandwich showdown. We each made our version and had a tasting party. Spoiler alert: I won by a landslide, but I may have bribed them with extra cheese.

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Ground Beef: Choose high-quality ground beef for juicier meatballs 80/20 works best for flavor and moisture.
Breadcrumbs: Use Italian-style breadcrumbs to add flavor and help bind the meatballs together.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan elevates the flavor profile avoid pre-grated for better results.
Fresh Parsley: Chopped parsley adds freshness opt for flat-leaf parsley for its superior taste.
Sub Roll Bread: Look for crusty yet soft rolls that can hold all the goodness without falling apart.

For the Sauce:

Crushed Tomatoes: Opt for high-quality canned tomatoes to create a rich and flavorful sauce base.
Garlic Cloves: Fresh garlic adds depth chop finely to release its intense aroma and flavor.
Dried Oregano: This herb enhances the sauce with its earthy tone don’t skip it
Mozzarella Cheese: Shredded mozzarella goes on top for that glorious melty finish who doesn’t love gooey cheese?

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Prepare the Meatball Mixture: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until incorporated without overworking it.

Form the Meatballs: Shape the mixture into golf ball-sized meatballs. Place them on a lined baking sheet, ensuring they’re evenly spaced to cook properly.

Sear the Meatballs: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add meatballs in batches and brown on all sides until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes total per batch.

Create the Sauce: In another saucepan, sauté minced garlic in olive oil until fragrant. Stir in crushed tomatoes and oregano simmer for 15 minutes to develop flavors.

Add Meatballs to Sauce: Gently place seared meatballs into your sauce and simmer together for an additional 10-15 minutes until fully cooked through.

Assemble Your Subs: Slice sub rolls open without cutting all the way through. Load each roll with meatballs and sauce, top generously with shredded mozzarella cheese, then place under broiler until bubbly and golden brown.

Now you are ready to indulge in these magnificent Meatball Sub Sandwiches Prepare to savor every last bite as you relish in their comforting warmth and delightful flavors that make everything feel right in the world.

You Must Know

Meatball sub sandwiches are the ultimate comfort food
The hearty meatballs, rich tomato sauce, and melted cheese create a flavor explosion
Don’t forget the crusty bread it’s essential for that satisfying crunch The aromas will make your kitchen feel like an Italian bistro

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Sear the meatballs first to lock in flavors, then simmer them in the sauce while preparing the bread. This method ensures juicy meatballs and perfectly melded flavors.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to experiment with different cheeses or spices. Try adding sautéed peppers and onions for extra texture and flavor A dash of red pepper flakes can spice things up too.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover meatball sub sandwiches tightly wrapped in foil or an airtight container. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes to maintain quality.

Chef's Helpful Tips

For meatball sub sandwiches, always use a mix of meats for extra flavor
Letting meatballs rest before cooking allows juices to redistribute
Toasting the bread is crucial for avoiding sogginess while biting into your sandwich

Sometimes I wonder if my friends love my meatball subs more than they love me. A compliment from a friend about how these sandwiches remind them of their childhood keeps me motivated to perfect my recipe

FAQs

FAQ

What type of bread is best for meatball sub sandwiches?

A crusty Italian or hoagie roll works best, providing support for all those delicious fillings.

Can I freeze leftover meatball sub sandwiches?

Yes, wrap them tightly and freeze for up to three months, maintaining flavor and texture.

How do I make meatballs more flavorful?

Add breadcrumbs soaked in milk and seasonings like garlic powder and fresh herbs for enhanced taste

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