The Subway meatball sandwich is a classic favorite among sandwich lovers. With its savory meatballs, marinara sauce, and melted mozzarella cheese, it’s a treat that’s hard to resist. But why settle for a store-bought version when you can make your own delicious Subway meatball sandwich at home? In this article, we’ll take you through a step-by-step guide on how to make a mouth-watering Subway meatball sandwich that’s sure to satisfy your cravings.
Understanding the Anatomy of a Subway Meatball Sandwich
Before we dive into the recipe, let’s break down the components of a classic Subway meatball sandwich. A typical Subway meatball sandwich consists of:
- Juicy meatballs made from a combination of ground beef and pork
- Marinara sauce for added flavor and moisture
- Melted mozzarella cheese for creaminess and texture
- Fresh parsley for a burst of freshness
- A crusty sub roll to hold everything together
Choosing the Right Ingredients
To make a authentic Subway meatball sandwich, you’ll need to choose the right ingredients. Here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Meatballs: Look for a combination of ground beef and pork for the best flavor and texture. You can also use ground turkey or chicken if you prefer a leaner option.
- Marinara sauce: Choose a high-quality marinara sauce that’s made with fresh tomatoes and herbs. Avoid sugary or preservative-laden sauces that can compromise the flavor of your sandwich.
- Mozzarella cheese: Fresh mozzarella is essential for a creamy and melty cheese. Look for a high-quality mozzarella that’s made from whole milk.
- Parsley: Fresh parsley adds a bright and freshness to the sandwich. Choose curly-leaf parsley for the best flavor and texture.
- Sub roll: A crusty sub roll is essential for holding everything together. Look for a roll that’s made with high-quality bread flour and has a crispy crust.
Preparing the Meatballs
Now that we have our ingredients, let’s start preparing the meatballs. Here’s a simple recipe to make delicious meatballs at home:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 pound ground pork
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for cooking
Combining the Meatball Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, parsley, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together with your hands or a wooden spoon until just combined. Be careful not to overmix the meat, as this can make it tough and dense.
Forming the Meatballs
Use your hands to shape the meat mixture into small meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. You should end up with around 20-25 meatballs.
Cooking the Meatballs
Heat a couple of tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. When the oil is hot, add the meatballs and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the meatballs from the skillet and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
Assembling the Sandwich
Now that our meatballs are cooked, it’s time to assemble the sandwich. Here’s how:
- Toast the sub roll: Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Place the sub roll on a baking sheet and toast until lightly browned, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the marinara sauce: Spread a layer of marinara sauce on the bottom half of the sub roll. You can use as much or as little sauce as you like, depending on your preference.
- Add the meatballs: Place 4-5 meatballs on top of the marinara sauce.
- Add the mozzarella cheese: Slice the mozzarella cheese into thin rounds and place on top of the meatballs.
- Add the parsley: Sprinkle some chopped parsley on top of the cheese for added freshness.
- Top with the sub roll: Place the top half of the sub roll on the sandwich and press gently.
Melting the Cheese
To melt the cheese, place the sandwich under the broiler for a few minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Keep an eye on the sandwich to make sure it doesn’t burn.
Tips and Variations
Here are some tips and variations to take your Subway meatball sandwich to the next level:
- Use a meatball sub sauce: Instead of using marinara sauce, try using a meatball sub sauce that’s specifically designed for meatball subs. This sauce is usually made with a combination of marinara sauce and melted mozzarella cheese.
- Add some spice: If you like a little heat in your sandwich, try adding some red pepper flakes or sliced jalapeños to the meatballs.
- Use different types of cheese: While mozzarella is the classic choice for a Subway meatball sandwich, you can also try using other types of cheese, such as provolone or cheddar.
- Add some freshness: Consider adding some sliced bell peppers or onions to the sandwich for added freshness and crunch.
Conclusion
Making a Subway meatball sandwich at home is easier than you think. With a few simple ingredients and some basic cooking skills, you can create a delicious and authentic Subway meatball sandwich that’s sure to satisfy your cravings. Whether you’re a meatball lover or just looking for a new sandwich to try, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. So go ahead, give it a try, and enjoy the delicious taste of a homemade Subway meatball sandwich!
What is the secret to making the perfect Subway-style meatball sandwich at home?
The secret to making the perfect Subway-style meatball sandwich at home lies in using high-quality ingredients and following a few simple steps. First, you’ll need to make the meatballs from scratch using a combination of ground beef, pork, and breadcrumbs. You’ll also need to use a flavorful marinara sauce and melted mozzarella cheese to give the sandwich its signature taste.
To take your sandwich to the next level, be sure to toast the bread until it’s crispy and golden brown. This will help to bring out the flavors of the meatballs and cheese. You can also add some fresh basil leaves and a sprinkle of parmesan cheese to give the sandwich a bit of extra flavor and texture.
What type of meat is best for making meatballs?
The best type of meat for making meatballs is a combination of ground beef and pork. The beef provides a rich, meaty flavor, while the pork adds a bit of tenderness and moisture. You can also use other types of meat, such as ground turkey or chicken, but beef and pork is the classic combination.
When choosing a ground meat, be sure to select a lean cut with a moderate fat content. This will help to keep the meatballs moist and flavorful. You can also add some breadcrumbs or oats to the meat mixture to help bind the ingredients together and add some extra texture.
How do I prevent my meatballs from becoming too dense or dry?
To prevent your meatballs from becoming too dense or dry, be sure to handle the meat mixture gently and don’t overmix it. You should also use a moderate amount of breadcrumbs or oats to help bind the ingredients together. Too many breadcrumbs can make the meatballs dense and dry.
Another tip is to use a bit of milk or egg to add moisture to the meat mixture. This will help to keep the meatballs tender and juicy. You can also try adding some grated onion or bell pepper to the mixture to add some extra flavor and moisture.
What is the best way to cook my meatballs?
The best way to cook your meatballs is to bake them in the oven until they’re cooked through. This will help to prevent them from becoming too greasy or overcooked. You can also try cooking them in a skillet on the stovetop, but be sure to use a bit of oil to prevent them from sticking.
To bake the meatballs, simply place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake them in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until they’re cooked through. You can also try broiling them for a few minutes to give them a bit of extra browning.
Can I make my meatballs ahead of time and freeze them?
Yes, you can make your meatballs ahead of time and freeze them for later use. Simply place the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and put them in the freezer until they’re frozen solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container and store them in the freezer for up to 3 months.
To use frozen meatballs, simply thaw them overnight in the refrigerator or thaw them quickly by submerging them in cold water. Then, bake or cook them as you normally would. Frozen meatballs are perfect for making a quick and easy meal, and they’re also great for meal prep.
What type of cheese is best for a Subway-style meatball sandwich?
The best type of cheese for a Subway-style meatball sandwich is mozzarella. This is because mozzarella has a mild, creamy flavor that melts well and adds a bit of stretchiness to the sandwich. You can also try using other types of cheese, such as provolone or cheddar, but mozzarella is the classic choice.
When using mozzarella cheese, be sure to slice it thinly so that it melts evenly and quickly. You can also try using a combination of mozzarella and parmesan cheese for an extra burst of flavor.
Can I customize my Subway-style meatball sandwich with different toppings?
Yes, you can customize your Subway-style meatball sandwich with different toppings to suit your taste. Some popular toppings include sliced onions, bell peppers, and jalapeños. You can also try adding some fresh basil leaves or a sprinkle of oregano for extra flavor.
Another great topping is a bit of garlic mayo or Italian dressing. This adds a creamy, tangy flavor to the sandwich that complements the meatballs and cheese perfectly. Feel free to get creative and experiment with different toppings to find your favorite combination.