Meatball Sub Bites

Introduction

There’s something irresistible about the combination of meatballs, marinara sauce, and gooey cheese, especially when it’s all wrapped up in a warm, flaky dough. Recently, I made Meatball Sub Bites for a family movie night, and they were an instant hit! The kids couldn’t get enough of these delicious little morsels, and the adults enjoyed them just as much. With their bite-sized portions and comforting flavors, these Meatball Sub Bites made for a perfect snack to share while we watched our favorite film. They’re simple to make, require minimal prep time, and are packed with flavor—what’s not to love?

Ingredients

• 1 (8-ounce) sheet of crescent roll dough
• ½ cup marinara sauce, divided
• ½ cup vegan mozzarella shreds, divided
• 12 premade vegan meatballs, thawed
• Fresh minced basil for garnish

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Prepare Crescent Roll Dough: Unroll the crescent roll sheet on a lightly floured surface. Cut the dough into 12 squares (3 rows, 4 columns). Line each square into a lightly greased cupcake tin to create little cups for the filling.
3. Assemble Meatball Sub Bites: In each dough square, place 2 teaspoons of marinara sauce, followed by 2 teaspoons of vegan mozzarella shreds. Next, place a thawed meatball in each dough square, then top with additional mozzarella and marinara sauce.
4. Bake: Place the cupcake tin in the oven and bake for 10-13 minutes, or until the dough turns light golden-brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
5. Serve: Once baked, remove the cupcake tin from the oven and let it cool for about 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh minced basil and serve with extra marinara sauce on the side for dipping.

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 12
• Calories per serving: Approximately 150

Preparation Time

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

How to Serve

• Serve warm straight from the oven.
• Offer extra marinara sauce for dipping.
• Garnish with fresh minced basil for a pop of color and flavor.
• Pair with a fresh salad for a complete meal.
• Consider serving with a side of vegan garlic bread for extra indulgence.

Additional Tips

1. Thaw Meatballs Properly: Ensure the vegan meatballs are fully thawed before assembling to ensure even cooking.
2. Use Parchment Paper: If you’re worried about sticking, consider lining the cupcake tin with parchment paper.
3. Customize Your Sauce: Feel free to experiment with different sauces, such as pesto or a spicy arrabbiata, for a unique flavor twist.
4. Make Ahead: You can assemble the bites ahead of time and store them in the fridge until you’re ready to bake.
5. Check for Doneness: Keep an eye on the bites as they bake; every oven is different, and you want them golden brown without burning.

Recipe Variations

• Classic Meatball Sub: Use traditional meatballs instead of vegan for a classic version that everyone will enjoy.
• Spicy Kick: Add crushed red pepper flakes to the marinara sauce for a bit of heat.
• Cheesy Delight: Mix in other vegan cheeses, like cheddar or pepper jack, for added flavor.
• Veggie Bites: Incorporate sautéed vegetables like bell peppers or spinach into the filling for extra nutrition.
• Mini Calzones: Use the same ingredients to create mini calzones instead of bites, folding the dough over the filling before baking.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a side of mixed greens dressed with olive oil and balsamic vinegar for a refreshing contrast.
• Pair with a variety of dipping sauces, such as ranch or buffalo sauce, to cater to different tastes.
• Offer a selection of vegan appetizers, such as stuffed mushrooms or bruschetta, to create a fun appetizer spread.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing: These Meatball Sub Bites freeze well! Assemble and freeze them unbaked in the cupcake tin. When ready to bake, remove from the freezer and bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use regular mozzarella instead of vegan?

• Yes, regular mozzarella works just as well if you’re not following a vegan diet.

1. How do I prevent the dough from sticking?

• Lightly greasing the cupcake tin or using parchment paper will help prevent sticking.

1. Can I make these gluten-free?

• Yes, you can use gluten-free crescent roll dough, available at many grocery stores.

1. What if I don’t have a cupcake tin?

• You can use a regular baking sheet, but the bites may not hold their shape as well.

1. Can I use homemade marinara sauce?

• Absolutely! Homemade marinara will add a delicious touch to these bites.

1. How can I make these spicier?

• Add jalapeños or spicy marinara sauce to the filling for an extra kick.

1. Can I bake these in advance?

• Yes, you can bake them and reheat them in the oven when ready to serve.

1. What can I substitute for basil?

• Fresh parsley or oregano can be used as a garnish instead.

1. Are these suitable for kids?

• Yes, kids love these bites, especially with their cheesy and savory flavors.

1. Can I use other types of meatballs?
   • Yes, you can use any type of premade meatballs you prefer.

Conclusion

Meatball Sub Bites are a delightful and satisfying treat that the whole family will love. With their warm, flaky crust, savory meatballs, and gooey cheese, these little bites are perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a family movie night, a game day snack, or a fun appetizer for a gathering. Easy to prepare and endlessly customizable, this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your household. So gather your ingredients, preheat the oven, and enjoy these mouthwatering Meatball Sub Bites with your loved ones!

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