The BEST Meatball Subs: A Flavor Explosion Awaits!

Introduction to The BEST Meatball Subs

There’s something undeniably comforting about sinking your teeth into a hearty meatball sub.

The BEST Meatball Subs are not just a meal; they’re a warm hug on a plate.

Whether you’re coming home after a long day or hosting friends for game night, this recipe is your go-to solution.

With savory meatballs, rich marinara, and gooey provolone, it’s a flavor explosion that’s sure to impress.

Plus, they’re quick to whip up, making them perfect for busy evenings or lazy weekends.

Trust me, once you try these, you’ll be hooked!

Why You’ll Love This The BEST Meatball Subs

These meatball subs are a game-changer for any home cook.

They come together in no time, making them perfect for those hectic weeknights.

The combination of juicy meatballs and zesty marinara sauce creates a taste sensation that’s hard to resist.

Plus, they’re customizable!

You can easily tweak the ingredients to suit your family’s preferences.

With The BEST Meatball Subs, you’ll have a satisfying meal that everyone will love!

Ingredients for The BEST Meatball Subs

Creating The BEST Meatball Subs starts with gathering the right ingredients.

Here’s what you’ll need:

• Ground beef: This adds a rich flavor and juicy texture to your meatballs.
• Ground pork: A perfect partner to beef, it brings moisture and a hint of sweetness.
• Breadcrumbs: These help bind the meatballs together while keeping them tender.
• Grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a savory depth and a touch of nuttiness.
• Fresh parsley: Brightens the flavor and adds a pop of color.
• Garlic: A must for that aromatic kick that elevates the dish.
• Egg: Acts as a binder, ensuring your meatballs hold their shape.
• Salt and black pepper: Essential for seasoning, enhancing all the flavors.
• Dried oregano and basil: Classic Italian herbs that bring warmth and earthiness.
• Marinara sauce: The heart of the sub, providing a luscious, tangy base.
• Hoagie rolls: Choose fresh rolls that can hold all that deliciousness without falling apart.
• Provolone cheese: Melts beautifully, adding creaminess and a mild flavor.
• Olive oil: A drizzle for browning the meatballs and adding richness.

Feel free to get creative!

For a spicy twist, toss in some red pepper flakes.

If you’re looking for a lighter option, ground turkey or chicken works well too.

And don’t forget, you can find the exact measurements at the bottom of the article for easy printing!

How to Make The BEST Meatball Subs

Making The BEST Meatball Subs is a straightforward process that will have your kitchen smelling divine.

Let’s dive into the steps that will lead you to a plateful of deliciousness!

Step 1: Prepare the Meatball Mixture

Start by grabbing a large bowl.

Combine the ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, chopped parsley, minced garlic, egg, salt, pepper, oregano, and basil.

Mix everything together until it’s well combined.

Don’t be shy; get in there with your hands!

This is where the magic begins.

Step 2: Form the Meatballs

Now, it’s time to shape your mixture into meatballs.

Aim for about 1.5 inches in diameter.

You should end up with around 20 meatballs.

If you want them uniform, use a cookie scoop.

This ensures even cooking and a professional look!

Step 3: Brown the Meatballs

Heat a large skillet over medium heat and drizzle in some olive oil.

Once hot, add your meatballs in batches.

Brown them on all sides for about 5-7 minutes.

They don’t need to be fully cooked through at this stage; just get that beautiful golden crust.

Step 4: Bake the Meatballs

Grab a large baking dish and spread 1 cup of marinara sauce on the bottom.

Place the browned meatballs on top, then pour the remaining marinara sauce over them.

Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.

After that, remove the foil, add a slice of provolone cheese on each meatball, and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 5: Toast the Hoagie Rolls

While the meatballs are baking, it’s time to prepare the hoagie rolls.

Lightly toast them in the oven for about 5 minutes.

This step adds a delightful crunch that complements the soft meatballs perfectly.

Step 6: Assemble the Subs

Now comes the fun part!

Take your toasted hoagie rolls and place 3-4 meatballs in each one.

Spoon extra marinara sauce over the top for that saucy goodness.

Serve immediately and watch everyone dig in with delight!

Tips for Success

• Use a mix of ground beef and pork for the best flavor and texture.
• Don’t skip browning the meatballs; it adds a delicious depth.
• Let the meatballs rest for a few minutes after baking for easier assembly.
• Experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella or cheddar for a twist.
• Make extra meatballs and freeze them for a quick meal later!

Equipment Needed

• Large mixing bowl: Essential for combining your meatball mixture. A sturdy pot can work in a pinch.
• Skillet: For browning the meatballs. A non-stick pan makes cleanup easier.
• Baking dish: Needed for baking the meatballs. Any oven-safe dish will do.
• Cookie scoop: Helps shape uniform meatballs. A tablespoon works just as well.

Variations of The BEST Meatball Subs

• Spicy Meatball Subs: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the meatball mixture for a fiery kick.
• Vegetarian Option: Substitute meat with lentils or chickpeas, and use a plant-based cheese for a delicious meat-free version.
• BBQ Meatball Subs: Mix BBQ sauce into the meatball mixture and top with coleslaw for a tangy twist.
• Cheesy Meatball Subs: Layer extra cheese inside the hoagie rolls before adding the meatballs for a gooey surprise.
• Whole Wheat Rolls: Opt for whole wheat hoagie rolls for a healthier, fiber-rich alternative.

Serving Suggestions for The BEST Meatball Subs

• Side Salad: A crisp Caesar or mixed greens salad pairs perfectly with the richness of the subs.
• Chips: Serve with crunchy potato chips or homemade fries for a satisfying crunch.
• Drinks: A cold beer or a fizzy soda complements the flavors beautifully.
• Presentation: Serve on a wooden board for a rustic touch, garnished with fresh parsley.

FAQs about The BEST Meatball Subs

Can I make The BEST Meatball Subs ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the meatballs and sauce in advance. Just store them separately in the fridge. When you’re ready to eat, bake them together and assemble your subs. It’s a great time-saver!

What can I substitute for the hoagie rolls?

If you can’t find hoagie rolls, any sturdy bread will do. Baguettes or ciabatta rolls work well too. Just make sure they can hold all that delicious filling!

How do I store leftovers?

Leftover meatball subs can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven for the best results, keeping the bread crispy.

Can I freeze the meatballs?

Yes! Freeze the cooked meatballs in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer bag. They’ll last for up to three months. Just thaw and reheat when you’re ready to enjoy!

What’s the best way to reheat The BEST Meatball Subs?

The best way to reheat is in the oven. Preheat to 350°F (175°C), wrap the subs in foil, and heat for about 10-15 minutes. This keeps the bread from getting soggy while warming the meatballs.

Final Thoughts

The joy of making The BEST Meatball Subs goes beyond just the delicious flavors.

It’s about gathering around the table with family and friends, sharing stories, and creating memories.

Each bite is a reminder of comfort and satisfaction, a little piece of home that warms the heart.

Whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering, these subs are sure to impress.

So roll up your sleeves, embrace the mess, and enjoy the process.

Trust me, once you serve these, you’ll be the hero of the kitchen!