Classic Italian Meatball Subs with Marinara Sauce

Indulge in the flavors of Italy with our classic Italian meatball subs! This mouthwatering dish features tender meatballs, smothered in rich marinara sauce, and tucked inside a warm, crusty sub roll. In this article, we'll take you through the step-by-step process of creating this beloved Italian-American comfort food. Whether it's for a hearty family dinner or a game-day treat, these meatball subs are sure to satisfy your cravings.

Ingredients You'll Need

Before we begin, gather the following fresh and flavorful ingredients:

1. Ground Meat

For authentic Italian flavor, a combination of ground beef and ground pork works best. You can also use ground turkey or chicken for a healthier option.

2. Breadcrumbs

Breadcrumbs help bind the meatballs and add texture. You can use store-bought or make your own from stale bread.

3. Eggs

Eggs act as a binder, holding the meatballs together during cooking.

4. Grated Parmesan Cheese

Add a generous amount of grated Parmesan cheese for a delightful umami flavor.

5. Fresh Herbs

Chopped fresh parsley and basil lend aromatic Italian flavors to the meatballs.

6. Garlic and Onion

Finely minced garlic and onion enhance the taste of the meatballs.

7. Milk

Adding a splash of milk keeps the meatballs tender and moist.

8. Salt and Pepper

Season the meatballs with salt and black pepper to taste.

Making the Meatballs

Let's dive into the process of creating these scrumptious meatballs!

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground meat, breadcrumbs, eggs, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped fresh herbs, minced garlic, and onion.

2. Pour in a splash of milk to keep the meatballs moist and tender. Use your hands to mix all the ingredients until well combined.

3. Form the mixture into evenly sized meatballs. Roll them between your palms for a smooth and round shape.

4. Place the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and let them rest while you prepare the marinara sauce.

Making the Marinara Sauce

No meatball sub is complete without a luscious marinara sauce!

1. In a saucepan, heat some olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.

2. Pour in a can of crushed tomatoes and bring the sauce to a gentle simmer.

3. Season the marinara sauce with salt, black pepper, and a pinch of sugar to balance the acidity.

4. Let the sauce simmer for about 15-20 minutes until it thickens and the flavors meld together.

Baking the Meatballs

Now it's time to bake the meatballs to perfection!

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Place the baking sheet with the meatballs in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes until they are cooked through and browned on the outside.

Assembling the Meatball Subs

Finally, let's put together these irresistible meatball subs!

1. Slice the sub rolls in half, leaving one side attached to create a pocket.

2. Spoon a generous amount of marinara sauce onto each roll, spreading it evenly.

3. Place a few meatballs on top of the sauce in each roll.

4. For extra flavor, sprinkle some more grated Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs on top.

Conclusion

There you have it – classic Italian meatball subs with marinara sauce! These hearty and flavorful subs are the epitome of comfort food. Whether served for a family dinner or a game-night feast, these delicious sandwiches are sure to leave everyone craving more.

FAQs

Q1: Can I use pre-made meatballs for this recipe?

While making your own meatballs is recommended for the freshest flavors, you can use pre-made meatballs to save time.

Q2: What type of sub rolls should I use?

Choose crusty sub rolls, such as Italian or French bread, for the best texture and taste.

Q3: Can I freeze the leftover meatballs and sauce?

Absolutely! Allow the meatballs and sauce to cool completely before freezing them in an airtight container.

Q4: Can I add melted cheese to the subs?

Yes! You can add slices of mozzarella or provolone cheese to the subs before baking for a gooey, cheesy delight.

Q5: What side dishes pair well with meatball subs?

Classic Italian side dishes like garlic bread, Caesar salad, or roasted vegetables complement the meatball subs beautifully.