Meatball Subs

Meatballs in marinara sauce on a soft sub roll.

Meatball Subs:

A classic, cheesy, and saucy comfort food! Perfect for family lunch, or meal prep.

Ingredients

1- For the Meatballs:

• 500g (1 lb) ground beef
• ½ cup breadcrumbs
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 egg
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for frying)

2- For the Marinara Sauce:

• 1 can (400g / 14 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon sugar (to balance acidity)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

3- For Assembling the Subs:

• 4 soft sub rolls
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella or provolone cheese
• 2 tablespoons fresh basil or parsley (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Make the Meatballs:
   • In a bowl, mix ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, egg, garlic, oregano, basil, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes until well combined.
   • Shape into 1-inch meatballs.
2. Cook the Meatballs:
   • Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat.
   • Sear the meatballs for 4-5 minutes, turning to brown all sides.
   • Remove and set aside.
3. Make the Marinara Sauce:
   • In the same pan, heat olive oil and sauté garlic for 30 seconds.
   • Add crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, basil, salt, black pepper, and sugar.
   • Simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
   • Add the meatballs back into the sauce and simmer for another 10 minutes.
4. Assemble the Meatball Subs:
   • Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F).
   • Slice the sub rolls and place 3-4 meatballs inside each.
   • Spoon extra marinara sauce over the meatballs.
   • Sprinkle with shredded mozzarella or provolone.
   • Place under the broiler for 2-3 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
5. Serve & Enjoy!
   • Garnish with fresh basil or parsley.
   • Serve warm with extra sauce on the side.

Tips & Variations :

• Spicy Kick: Add more red pepper flakes or drizzle with hot sauce.
• Crispy Finish: Toast the sub rolls with garlic butter before assembling.
• Lighter Option: Swap beef for turkey or chicken meatballs.
• Side Pairings: Serve with a fresh Caesar salad or crispy fries!

Enjoy your meal!