Italian Meatball Sub Sandwiches: A Comforting Classic

Introduction

Italian Meatball Sub Sandwiches are more than just a meal; they are a delightful experience that captures the heart of Italian cuisine. These sandwiches feature homemade, flavorful meatballs simmered in a rich marinara sauce, topped with a melty blend of provolone, fontina, and parmesan cheeses, all nestled inside crusty sub rolls. The aroma that fills your kitchen while preparing this dish is simply irresistible, making it a perfect choice for family dinners or gatherings with friends.

Why You’ll Love This Italian Meatball Sub Sandwiches

There are countless reasons to adore these Italian meatball sandwiches. Firstly, they are packed with flavor, thanks to the combination of beef and pork in the meatballs. Secondly, they are versatile and can be customized to fit any palate, whether you prefer a spicy Italian meatball sandwich or a classic version. Thirdly, this meatball sub recipe is incredibly easy to prepare, ensuring that even novice cooks can impress their guests. Additionally, they make for excellent leftovers, perfect for meal prep. With just a few ingredients, you can create a delightful dish that brings comfort to your table. Lastly, these sandwiches are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a festive gathering, making them a true crowd-pleaser. (Note: Cuisine: Italian, Easy meatball sub variations, Comfort Food)

Ingredients for Italian Meatball Sub Sandwiches

Gather these items:

1 pound (454g) ground beef
1 pound (454g) ground pork
3 and 1/2 teaspoons garlic powder
3 teaspoons onion powder
2 and 1/2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
2 teaspoons salt
3/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
2 large eggs
1 cup (100g) parmesan cheese, finely grated
1 cup panko breadcrumbs
3/4 cup (171ml) water
1/3 cup (76ml) olive oil
8 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
2 (28 ounce) cans crushed tomatoes with basil
1 and 1/2 teaspoons salt
1/2 teaspoon granulated sugar
1 and 1/2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
8 crusty sub rolls, cut in half
8 ounces provolone cheese, shredded
6 ounces fontina cheese, shredded
2 ounces parmesan cheese, finely grated
Fresh basil, torn, for garnish (optional)

How to Make Italian Meatball Sub Sandwiches Step-by-Step

Step 1: In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef and ground pork. Add garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, freshly ground black pepper, eggs, parmesan cheese, panko breadcrumbs, and water. Mix everything thoroughly but gently to evenly incorporate all ingredients without overworking the meat.
Step 2: Using your hands or a scoop, form the meat mixture into evenly sized balls, about 1.5 to 2 inches in diameter, to ensure uniform cooking.
Step 3: Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a little olive oil if needed. Brown the meatballs on all sides until they develop a golden crust. Transfer the browned meatballs to a plate and set aside.
Step 4: In the same skillet, heat 1/3 cup olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and crushed red pepper flakes, sautéing until fragrant but not browned, about 1 minute. Pour in the crushed tomatoes with basil cans, add salt, granulated sugar, and Italian seasoning. Stir well and bring the sauce to a simmer.
Step 5: Gently add the browned meatballs into the simmering sauce. Cover and cook on low heat for 20 minutes, allowing the meatballs to cook through and the sauce to thicken, stirring occasionally.
Step 6: Stir in the chopped fresh basil leaves into the sauce and meatballs mixture right before serving to keep the fresh flavor intact.
Step 7: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Open the sub rolls and layer each with a generous spoonful of meatballs and sauce, then top evenly with shredded provolone, fontina, and grated parmesan cheese.
Step 8: Place the assembled subs on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for about 8-10 minutes, or until the cheeses are melted and bubbly and the rolls are slightly toasted.
Step 9: Remove from oven, optionally garnish with torn fresh basil, extra grated parmesan, and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for some heat. Serve immediately with plenty of napkins and enjoy!

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Pro Tips for the Best Italian Meatball Sub Sandwiches

Keep these in mind:

Use a mix of ground meats for richer flavor.
Don’t skip browning the meatballs; it adds depth to the flavor.
For a spicy kick, increase the crushed red pepper flakes.
Be sure to let the meatballs simmer in the sauce to absorb the flavors. (Note: Method: Baking, Sautéing)

Best Ways to Serve Italian Meatball Sub Sandwiches

These sandwiches are delicious on their own, but you can elevate them with various Italian meatball sub toppings. Consider adding sautéed peppers and onions for added texture. You can also serve them with a side of garlic bread or a fresh salad to balance the richness of the meatballs.

How to Store and Reheat Italian Meatball Sub Sandwiches

To store leftovers, wrap the sandwiches in foil or place them in an airtight container. They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, pop them back in the oven at 375°F until heated through, which preserves the crusty bread. This makes them an excellent choice for meatball sub meal prep ideas.

Frequently Asked Questions About Italian Meatball Sub Sandwiches

What’s the secret to perfect Italian Meatball Sub Sandwiches?

The secret lies in the combination of flavors within the meatballs and the richness of the marinara sauce. Use quality ingredients and let them simmer together to enhance the overall taste. This is the heart of what makes a great meatball hoagie.

Can I make Italian Meatball Sub Sandwiches ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the meatballs and sauce in advance and store them separately. Assemble the sandwiches right before baking for the best texture, making this an ideal homemade meatball sandwich for busy weeknights.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Italian Meatball Sub Sandwiches?

Ensure you don’t overmix the meat mixture, as this can lead to tough meatballs. Also, allow the meatballs to brown properly before adding them to the sauce; this step adds significant flavor to your classic meatball sub.

Variations of Italian Meatball Sub Sandwiches You Can Try

There are numerous delicious twists you can put on this recipe. Consider making slow cooker meatball subs for an easy, hands-off approach. You could also try an Italian-style meatball sub by adding roasted vegetables or cheese blends for a unique touch. Lastly, for those who love a kick, a meatball sub with cheese and jalapeños is a must-try!

Italian Meatball Sub Sandwiches: A Comforting Classic - Italian Meatball Sub Sandwiches - additional detail

For more delicious recipes, check out our Creamy Italian Meatball Soup or Italian Sausage Tortellini Soup. You can also explore Cheesy Baked Fajita Chicken for a delightful twist on dinner!