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Savory Meatball Subs Recipe Easy Homemade Mozzarella Basil Subs

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These savory meatball subs feature juicy, well-seasoned meatballs smothered in marinara sauce, topped with gooey fresh mozzarella and bright fresh basil, all nestled in soft hoagie rolls. Perfect for quick, comforting meals that please both kids and adults.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb ground beef (80/20 for juiciness)
  • 1/2 lb ground pork (adds richness)
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 cups marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
  • 1 tsp sugar
  • 1 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 4 hoagie rolls or sub buns
  • 8 oz fresh mozzarella, sliced or torn
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, torn or chiffonade
  • Olive oil for brushing (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, garlic, onion, eggs, parsley, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix gently but thoroughly by hand.
  3. Shape the mixture into golf-ball sized meatballs, about 1.5 inches in diameter.
  4. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat with a little olive oil. Brown the meatballs on all sides, about 3-4 minutes per side, without cooking through.
  5. Transfer the browned meatballs into a saucepan with marinara sauce. Add sugar and red pepper flakes if using. Cover and simmer on low for 20 minutes.
  6. Slice hoagie rolls lengthwise, keeping a hinge to hold together. Optionally brush with olive oil and toast under broiler for 1-2 minutes until golden and crisp.
  7. Place 3-4 meatballs per roll using a slotted spoon, spooning plenty of sauce over them. Top generously with fresh mozzarella slices.
  8. Place assembled subs on a baking sheet and broil for 3-5 minutes until mozzarella is bubbly and gooey.
  9. Remove from oven and sprinkle torn basil leaves over the hot cheese. Serve immediately.

Notes

Do not overmix meatball ingredients to avoid toughness. Sear meatballs before simmering to lock in juices. Keep simmer heat low to prevent meatballs from falling apart. Watch broiler carefully to avoid burning cheese. For gluten-free, substitute breadcrumbs with almond flour or gluten-free crumbs and use gluten-free rolls. For dairy-free, use dairy-free cheese alternatives.

Nutrition

Keywords: meatball subs, homemade meatballs, mozzarella, basil, easy sandwich, comfort food, quick dinner, family meal

Find it online: https://evabakery.com/savory-meatball-subs-recipe-easy-homemade-mozzarella-basil-subs/