Description
Sloppy Joe Meatball Subs are a delicious twist on the classic sloppy joe. Juicy, tender meatballs are smothered in a rich, tangy Sloppy Joe sauce and served in a warm sub roll. These subs are perfect for a casual dinner, game day, or any time you want a comforting, flavorful meal. The hearty meatballs and bold sauce create a satisfying and fun sandwich experience.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for cooking meatballs)
- 1 cup Sloppy Joe sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 4 sub rolls
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional, for topping)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined, then shape the mixture into 12-16 meatballs, depending on the size of your rolls.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs and cook for about 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until browned on all sides and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C). Remove from skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, pour in the Sloppy Joe sauce and bring it to a simmer over medium heat. Add the cooked meatballs back into the sauce, stirring to coat them in the sauce. Let the meatballs simmer in the sauce for 5-7 minutes, allowing them to soak up the flavors.
- While the meatballs are simmering, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Slice the sub rolls and toast them lightly in the oven for 5 minutes if you prefer a crispy exterior.
- To assemble the subs, place 3-4 meatballs in each toasted sub roll. Spoon extra Sloppy Joe sauce over the meatballs and top with shredded mozzarella cheese (if using).
- Place the subs in the oven for an additional 3-5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Remove from the oven, garnish with chopped parsley (if desired), and serve hot. Enjoy your Sloppy Joe Meatball Subs with a side of chips or a simple salad!
Notes
- If you prefer a spicier version, you can add a little hot sauce or chili flakes to the Sloppy Joe sauce.
- For a healthier option, try using ground turkey or chicken for the meatballs, and opt for whole wheat sub rolls.
- Feel free to make the meatballs ahead of time and store them in the fridge for up to 2 days or freeze for later use. Reheat with the Sloppy Joe sauce when ready to serve.
- If you don’t have Sloppy Joe sauce, you can easily make your own by combining tomato sauce, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, mustard, and a touch of vinegar or lemon juice.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop, Oven
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 sub
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 75mg