Table of Contents
Introduction
Discover the heartwarming delight of homemade Meatball Subs! This recipe showcases juicy meatballs nestled in soft hoagie rolls, drenched in rich marinara sauce, and topped with gooey melted cheese. Perfect for cozy dinners or casual get-togethers, let this cherished dish bring a smile to your table!
Budget Information
The total cost for this Meatball Subs recipe is approximately $18.00, making it around $3.00 per serving for six generous subs. It’s an affordable way to enjoy a classic sandwich that feels indulgent without breaking the bank!
Why This Recipe Works
This Meatball Subs recipe marries the vibrant flavors of Italian cuisine with the comfort of a homestyle meal. The combination of ground beef and pork creates succulent meatballs, while the homemade marinara sauce ties everything together in a luscious embrace. Plus, it’s an easy recipe! With just a little prep and a few ingredients, you can serve up happiness to your family or guests, all while creating nostalgic memories that would last a lifetime.
Ingredients + optional substitutions
To whip up these glorious Meatball Subs, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef ($5.00)
- 1 lb ground pork ($5.00)
- 1 tbsp minced garlic ($0.25)
- ½ cup finely chopped yellow onion ($0.50)
- ¾ cup grated Parmigiano Reggiano cheese ($1.50)
- 1 cup bread crumbs ($0.75)
- 2 large eggs ($0.50)
- ¼ cup fresh parsley or 2 tbsp dried parsley ($0.50)
- 1 tbsp salt ($0.05)
- 1 tsp ground black pepper ($0.05)
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil for marinara ($0.50)
- 1 cup finely chopped onion for marinara ($0.50)
- 1 tbsp minced garlic for marinara ($0.25)
- 1 (6 oz) can of tomato paste ($0.80)
- 2 (16 oz) cans of crushed tomatoes ($2.00)
- 1 tbsp fresh oregano or 1 tsp dried oregano ($0.05)
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes ($0.05)
- 1 tbsp kosher salt for marinara ($0.05)
- 1½ tsp ground black pepper for marinara ($0.05)
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar for marinara ($0.15)
- 4-6 hoagie rolls ($2.50)
- Optional toppings: provolone cheese ($1.50), fresh basil ($0.75)
This batch makes enough for about 6 hearty subs—a perfect choice for a family dinner!
Step-by-step recipe instructions
Step 1: Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven warms up, grab a large mixing bowl and combine the ground beef and ground pork. This mixture will be the heart of your meatballs, so gently mix them together, being careful not to overwork the meat, which can lead to dense, chewy meatballs. A tender touch keeps them juicy!
Step 2: Next, add in the minced garlic, chopped onions, grated Parmigiano Reggiano, breadcrumbs, eggs, parsley, salt, and black pepper to your meat mixture. Use your hands (yes, it’s the best tool) to incorporate all the ingredients, adding a bit of water if the mixture feels too dry. You want a well-combined, slightly sticky mixture that will shape into perfect meatballs.
Step 3: Now it’s time to form the meatballs! Scoop about 2-3 ounces of the mixture into your hands and roll them into balls, placing them on a lined baking sheet as you go. Aim for a nice, uniform shape for consistent cooking. Pop them into the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes until they’re perfectly browned and cooked through.
Step 4: While the meatballs are baking, let’s tackle the marinara sauce. Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat, then add the chopped onions and cook until they become translucent, adding in the minced garlic at the last minute (no one likes burnt garlic!). Stir in the tomato paste, crushed tomatoes, and seasonings—oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Allow this glorious sauce to simmer for about 20 minutes to meld those flavors together beautifully.
Step 5: Once your meatballs are done and your sauce is perfectly aromatic, it’s assembly time! Grab your hoagie rolls and slice them open slightly, ensuring not to cut all the way through. Place 3-4 meatballs inside each roll, drizzling them with plenty of marinara sauce, and sprinkle on the cheese of your choice. For an extra touch of bliss, throw the loaded sandwiches back in the oven (now broil at 500°F!) for 3-5 minutes to melt the cheese and toast the rolls to perfection!
Step 6: Finally, once that cheese is bubbly and golden, take them out of the oven, let them cool for a minute, then dive in! Garnish with fresh basil or a sprinkle of additional cheese, if desired. You’ve just created a plateful of happiness!
Nutritional Facts
Calories: 550
Protein: 30g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Total Fats: 25g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 6g
Sodium: 800mg
Storage and reheating tips
Leftovers? No problem! Store any uneaten meatball subs wrapped snugly in aluminum foil or in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through. For best results, cover them with foil to keep the rolls from getting too crispy.
Serving suggestions
To get the party started, why not serve these delightful Meatball Subs with a fresh side salad drizzled with a zesty vinaigrette? Crunchy garlic bread is another winning companion that nobody can resist. And for a touch of fun, some crispy potato chips or sweet potato fries make fantastic crunchy sides that everyone will love!
Reader tips or helpful notes
Feel free to get creative! Experiment with different types of bread, cheeses, or even add some sautéed peppers and onions for an added punch! If you’re short on time, don’t hesitate to use frozen meatballs or store-bought marinara sauce. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly. Remember, making these subs is all about what you love—so get in there and have fun with it!
Recipe FAQs
Can I make the meatball mixture ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the meatball mixture and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before cooking.
What can I use if I don’t have hoagie rolls?
Any sturdy bread will work! Baguettes, brioche, or even pita pockets can be great alternatives.
How do I make this recipe gluten-free?
Opt for gluten-free breadcrumbs and ensure your hoagie rolls are gluten-free. You can also use lettuce wraps for a low-carb option!
Can I freeze the meatballs?
Yes! You can freeze baked meatballs in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Just reheat them in the sauce when you’re ready to enjoy again.
Is it possible to use different types of meat?
Definitely! Ground turkey, chicken, or even meat-free substitutes work beautifully in this recipe. Adjust seasonings and cooking times accordingly!
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