The meatball sub sandwich is a classic Italian-American dish that has captured the hearts and taste buds of people around the world. This mouth-watering sandwich consists of juicy meatballs, marinara sauce, and melted mozzarella cheese, all piled high on a crusty sub roll. In this article, we will take you through the step-by-step process of making the perfect meatball sub sandwich, from preparing the meatballs to assembling the final product.
Preparing the Meatballs
The foundation of a great meatball sub sandwich lies in the quality of the meatballs. To make authentic Italian-style meatballs, you will need the following ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Ground beef | 1 pound |
| Breadcrumbs | 1/2 cup |
| Grated Parmesan cheese | 1/4 cup |
| Chopped onion | 1/4 cup |
| Minced garlic | 2 cloves |
| Egg | 1 |
| Salt and pepper | To taste |
| Italian seasoning | 1 teaspoon |
To prepare the meatballs, follow these steps:
Step 1: Mix the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, chopped onion, minced garlic, egg, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Mix the ingredients together with your hands or a wooden spoon until they are just combined. Be careful not to overmix the meat, as this can make it dense and tough.
Step 2: Form 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.
Step 3: Bake the Meatballs
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving a little space between each meatball to allow for even cooking. Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, or until they are cooked through and lightly browned on the outside.
Preparing the Marinara Sauce
While the meatballs are baking, you can start preparing the marinara sauce. This sauce is a crucial component of the meatball sub sandwich, as it adds moisture, flavor, and a tangy kick. To make a simple marinara sauce, you will need the following ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Canned crushed tomatoes | 2 cups |
| Olive oil | 1/4 cup |
| Minced garlic | 2 cloves |
| Dried oregano | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt and pepper | To taste |
To prepare the marinara sauce, follow these steps:
Step 1: Heat the Olive Oil
Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
Step 2: Add the Garlic and Oregano
Add the minced garlic and dried oregano to the saucepan and cook for 1-2 minutes, or until the garlic is fragrant.
Step 3: Add the Crushed Tomatoes
Add the canned crushed tomatoes to the saucepan, stirring to combine with the garlic and oregano. Bring the sauce to a simmer and let it cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has thickened and reduced slightly.
Step 4: Season the Sauce
Season the marinara sauce with salt and pepper to taste.
Assembling the Meatball Sub Sandwich
Now that the meatballs and marinara sauce are ready, it’s time to assemble the meatball sub sandwich. To do this, you will need the following ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Sub rolls | 4-6 |
| Provolone or mozzarella cheese | 4-6 slices |
| Meatballs | 4-6 |
| Marinara sauce | 1 cup |
To assemble the meatball sub sandwich, follow these steps:
Step 1: Toast the Sub Rolls
Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Place the sub rolls on a baking sheet and toast them in the oven for 5-7 minutes, or until they are lightly browned and crispy.
Step 2: Assemble the Sandwich
Place 2-3 meatballs on each sub roll, followed by a spoonful of marinara sauce and a slice of provolone or mozzarella cheese.
Step 3: Melt the Cheese
Place the sub sandwiches under the broiler and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Tips and Variations
Here are a few tips and variations to help you take your meatball sub sandwich to the next level:
- Use high-quality ingredients: The quality of your meatball sub sandwich is only as good as the ingredients you use. Choose fresh, flavorful ingredients, such as homemade breadcrumbs and freshly grated Parmesan cheese.
- Don’t overcook the meatballs: Meatballs can quickly become dry and tough if they are overcooked. Cook them until they are just done, then let them rest for a few minutes before serving.
- Add some spice: If you like a little heat in your meatball sub sandwich, try adding some red pepper flakes to the meat mixture or sprinkling some chopped jalapeños on top of the sandwich.
- Get creative with the cheese: While provolone and mozzarella are classic choices for meatball sub sandwiches, you can also try using other cheeses, such as cheddar, Swiss, or gorgonzola.
By following these steps and tips, you can create a delicious meatball sub sandwich that is sure to please even the pickiest of eaters. Whether you’re serving it at a party, packing it in a lunchbox, or enjoying it as a quick and easy dinner, the meatball sub sandwich is a classic Italian-American dish that is sure to become a favorite.
What is the secret to making the perfect meatball sub sandwich?
The secret to making the perfect meatball sub sandwich lies in the quality of the ingredients and the attention to detail in the preparation process. Using freshly baked sub rolls, homemade marinara sauce, and freshly made meatballs will elevate the flavor and texture of the sandwich. Additionally, toasting the sub rolls before adding the meatballs and sauce will add a nice crunch and prevent the bread from getting soggy.
To take it to the next level, consider using a combination of ground meats, such as beef, pork, and veal, to create a more complex flavor profile. Also, don’t overmix the meatball mixture, as this can make the meatballs dense and tough. By following these tips, you’ll be well on your way to creating the perfect meatball sub sandwich.
What type of meat is best for making meatballs?
The type of meat to use for making meatballs is a matter of personal preference, but a combination of ground meats is often the best option. Ground beef, pork, and veal are popular choices, as they provide a good balance of flavor and texture. Ground beef adds a rich, meaty flavor, while ground pork adds a bit of fattiness and tenderness. Ground veal, on the other hand, adds a delicate flavor and a tender texture.
When choosing a ground meat, look for a lean-to-fat ratio of around 80/20 or 70/30. This will ensure that the meatballs are juicy and flavorful, but not too greasy. Avoid using ground meat that is too lean, as this can result in dry and dense meatballs. Also, consider using grass-fed or pasture-raised meats for a more complex and nuanced flavor profile.
How do I prevent my meatballs from becoming too dense?
To prevent meatballs from becoming too dense, it’s essential to handle the meat mixture gently and avoid overmixing. Overmixing can cause the meat to become compact and dense, resulting in tough and chewy meatballs. Instead, mix the ingredients just until they come together in a cohesive mass, then stop mixing.
Another tip is to use a light touch when shaping the meatballs. Use your thumb to make a slight indentation in the center of each meatball, which will help them cook evenly and prevent them from becoming too dense. Also, consider adding a bit of breadcrumbs or grated Parmesan cheese to the meat mixture, as this will help to keep the meatballs light and tender.
What is the best way to cook meatballs for a sub sandwich?
The best way to cook meatballs for a sub sandwich is to bake them in the oven. Baking allows for even cooking and helps to prevent the meatballs from becoming greasy or overcooked. Simply place the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for around 15-20 minutes, or until cooked through.
Alternatively, you can also cook the meatballs in a skillet on the stovetop or in a slow cooker. However, baking is often the easiest and most convenient method, as it allows for hands-off cooking and minimal cleanup. Regardless of the cooking method, make sure to cook the meatballs until they are cooked through and lightly browned on the outside.
What type of cheese is best for a meatball sub sandwich?
The type of cheese to use for a meatball sub sandwich is a matter of personal preference, but melted mozzarella is a classic choice. Mozzarella has a mild flavor and a creamy texture that complements the rich flavor of the meatballs and marinara sauce. Other options include provolone, cheddar, or a blend of cheeses.
When using cheese, consider sprinkling it on top of the meatballs and sauce, then placing the sub under the broiler for a few seconds to melt the cheese. This will add a creamy, gooey texture to the sandwich and help to bind the flavors together. You can also use a cheese sauce or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese for added flavor and texture.
How do I assemble the perfect meatball sub sandwich?
To assemble the perfect meatball sub sandwich, start by toasting the sub rolls in the oven or under the broiler. This will add a nice crunch and prevent the bread from getting soggy. Next, add a layer of marinara sauce to the bottom half of the sub roll, followed by a few meatballs.
Add a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese and a few fresh basil leaves on top of the meatballs, then drizzle with a bit more marinara sauce. Finally, top with the top half of the sub roll and serve immediately. Consider using a serrated knife to slice the sub in half, as this will help to prevent the filling from spilling out.
Can I make meatball sub sandwiches ahead of time?
While it’s possible to make meatball sub sandwiches ahead of time, it’s best to assemble the sandwiches just before serving. This will ensure that the bread stays fresh and the filling stays hot and flavorful. However, you can prepare the components of the sandwich ahead of time, such as cooking the meatballs and making the marinara sauce.
Consider cooking the meatballs and making the sauce a day or two in advance, then refrigerating or freezing until ready to use. You can also toast the sub rolls ahead of time and store them in an airtight container until ready to assemble the sandwiches. Just be sure to reheat the meatballs and sauce before assembling the sandwiches for the best flavor and texture.