Meatball Subs: A Family Favorite

Introduction

When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can rival the heartiness of meatball subs. Recently, I decided to make these for a family gathering, and the results were fantastic! The aroma of sizzling meatballs filled the kitchen, drawing everyone in. As we dug into the gooey, cheesy sandwiches, smiles lit up the room. Each bite was a perfect blend of savory meat, rich marinara, and melty cheese. It was an instant hit, and I knew I had stumbled upon a recipe that would become a staple in our household.

Ingredients

For the Meatballs:

• 1 lb (450g) ground beef
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 egg
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• Olive oil, for frying

For the Subs:

• 4-6 hoagie rolls (or any soft sub rolls)
• 2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (or provolone)
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
• Fresh parsley or basil for garnish

Instructions

1. Prepare the Meatballs: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, dried oregano, dried basil, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix. Roll the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.
2. Cook the Meatballs: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Fry the meatballs in batches, turning occasionally, until browned on all sides and cooked through, about 8-10 minutes. Remove the meatballs and drain them on paper towels.
3. Heat the Marinara Sauce: In a saucepan, heat the marinara sauce over medium heat. Add the cooked meatballs to the sauce and let them simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
4. Assemble the Subs: Preheat your oven’s broiler on high. Place the hoagie rolls on a baking sheet and open them up. Spoon the meatballs and marinara sauce into each roll, making sure to distribute them evenly. Top with shredded mozzarella cheese and sprinkle grated Parmesan on top if desired.
5. Melt the Cheese: Place the subs under the broiler for 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden. Keep a close eye on them to prevent burning.
6. Garnish and Serve: Remove the meatball subs from the oven and garnish with freshly chopped parsley or basil. Serve hot.

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 4-6
• Calories per serving: Approximately 500-600 calories

Preparation Time

• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes

How to Serve

• Hot from the oven for a comforting dinner
• Alongside a fresh salad for a balanced meal
• With extra marinara sauce for dipping
• At game day gatherings as a hearty snack
• With garlic bread for an extra indulgent treat

Additional Tips

1. Avoid Overmixing: When mixing the meatball ingredients, be gentle. Overmixing can lead to tough meatballs.
2. Make Ahead: Prepare the meatballs in advance and freeze them. Simply thaw and cook when ready to serve.
3. Customize Seasonings: Feel free to adjust the herbs and spices according to your taste preferences. Fresh herbs can add even more flavor.
4. Use Quality Ingredients: The flavor of your subs will improve significantly if you use high-quality marinara sauce and cheese.
5. Keep an Eye on the Broiler: Broilers can be finicky; keep a close watch to prevent burning the cheese.

Recipe Variations

• Turkey Meatball Subs: Substitute ground beef with ground turkey for a lighter option.
• Vegetarian Version: Use plant-based meat substitutes or lentil meatballs for a vegetarian option.
• Spicy Meatball Subs: Add red pepper flakes to the meatball mixture for a kick.
• Cheesy Garlic Bread Subs: Use garlic butter on the hoagie rolls before filling for extra flavor.
• BBQ Meatball Subs: Replace marinara with your favorite BBQ sauce for a sweet and tangy twist.

Serving Suggestions

• With Potato Chips: Serve alongside a bowl of crunchy potato chips for a classic combo.
• Fresh Vegetables: Offer a platter of fresh veggies and dip to balance the richness of the subs.
• Wine Pairing: Pair with a robust red wine like Chianti to complement the flavors of the meatballs.
• Coleslaw: A side of coleslaw can add a refreshing crunch to your meal.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing: You can freeze cooked meatballs separately from the sauce. Store them in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Storage: Leftover meatball subs can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use a different type of meat?

• Yes, you can use ground turkey, chicken, or pork.

1. How do I prevent soggy subs?

• Toast the hoagie rolls lightly before filling them to help prevent sogginess.

1. What type of cheese is best for meatball subs?

• Mozzarella is traditional, but provolone or even cheddar can work well.

1. Can I make these meatballs in advance?

• Absolutely! You can prepare and freeze the meatballs before cooking.

1. What sauce works best?

• Homemade marinara sauce is great, but quality store-bought sauce is convenient and tasty.

1. How do I know when the meatballs are cooked?

• The internal temperature should reach 160°F (70°C). You can also cut one open to check for doneness.

1. Can I bake the meatballs instead of frying?

• Yes, you can bake them at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes.

1. How can I make these subs spicier?

• Add crushed red pepper flakes to the meatball mixture or use spicy marinara sauce.

1. What can I serve with meatball subs?

• Salads, chips, or vegetable platters pair well.

1. Are meatball subs kid-friendly?
   • Yes! They are a great option for kids, especially if you customize the flavors to their taste.

Conclusion

These Meatball Subs are a comforting and satisfying dish that is perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s game day, a family dinner, or just a cozy night in, this recipe is sure to please. With juicy meatballs, rich marinara, and melty cheese all tucked into soft rolls, every bite is a celebration of flavors. Try this recipe out, and I’m confident it will become a beloved addition to your family’s meal rotation. Enjoy the deliciousness!

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