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Meatball Subs Recipe

Juicy, homemade meatballs nestled in a rich marinara sauce, crowned with melted mozzarella and tucked into toasted hoagie rolls — these subs far surpass any fast-food version in taste and comfort.
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Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Keyword: Meatball Subs Recipe
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1/2 cup bread crumbs
  • 1/2 pound ground pork or additional ground beef
  • 1 large onion chopped (divided use)
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt divided use
  • 1/2 pound ground beef
  • 1/2 cup parmesan cheese
  • 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
  • 2 cloves garlic minced (divided use)
  • 1/2 teaspoon pepper
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 pound tomato sauce passata
  • 1 small onion chopped
  • 4 hoagie rolls *see notes
  • 1/2 cup water
  • 8 slices mozzarella cheese
  • 1 clove garlic minced

Instructions

  • Combine the ground beef, ground pork, egg, small chopped onion, minced garlic, parmesan, bread crumbs, salt, and pepper in a large bowl, mixing thoroughly. Shape the mixture into 1-inch meatballs and arrange them on a plate. Warm a little oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat, then sear the meatballs for about 5-6 minutes, turning them midway. Transfer the cooked meatballs to a plate. Return the pan to medium heat and add olive oil, the large chopped onion, and minced garlic, cooking until aromatic. Pour in the tomato sauce, water, Italian seasoning, and salt, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer. Return the meatballs to the sauce and cook until fully done. Preheat the oven to 200°C/400°F. Halve the hoagie rolls and generously fill each with meatballs and sauce, then top with mozzarella slices. Arrange the open sandwiches on a baking tray and broil for 2-3 minutes until the cheese melts. Serve without delay.
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Notes

To store: Keep meatballs and marinara refrigerated for up to five days.
To freeze: Store cooked or raw meatballs in airtight containers for up to six months.
Variations: Opt for keto-friendly ingredients to reduce carbs; try different proteins such as Italian sausage or ground chicken; add red pepper flakes for spice; brush rolls with garlic butter before toasting for extra flavor.