Oh boy, do I have a delicious treat for you! If you’re like me and have an unending love affair with Italian comfort food, then you’re going to absolutely adore this Meatball Marinara Sub. Picture this: tender, juicy meatballs slathered in homemade marinara sauce, all snuggled up inside a toasted sub roll and topped with gooey melted cheese. It’s not just a meal; it’s a party for your taste buds!
I first made these subs during a family gathering, and let me tell you, they disappeared faster than I could say “Mamma Mia!” The combination of flavors and textures is nothing short of heavenly. Plus, I love how versatile they are. You can whip them up for a casual Friday night or dress them up for game day. They’re always a hit! Now, let’s get into what makes this recipe so special!
What’s in Meatball Marinara Sub?
Ground Beef: This is the star of the show! I prefer ground chuck for its rich flavor and perfect fat balance, but any ground beef will do. You can also use ground turkey or chicken if you’re looking for a lighter option.
Breadcrumbs: They serve as the binding agent for the meatballs, ensuring they stay moist and flavorful. I like using Italian-style breadcrumbs for that extra kick of flavor.
Egg: Just one egg helps hold everything together. It’s the glue that binds our meatball dreams!
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic gives the meatballs and sauce an aromatic punch. There’s nothing like that garlicky goodness wafting through the kitchen!
Parmesan Cheese: I can’t get enough of this cheese! It adds a lovely nutty flavor to the meatballs. Always go for the freshly grated if you can – it makes a world of difference.
Marinara Sauce: A hearty, homemade marinara sauce really elevates the sub. You could opt for store-bought, but nothing beats the flavors of a sauce you made from scratch!
Sub Rolls: Fresh, crusty sub rolls are perfect for holding all that deliciousness together. I recommend finding a local bakery or supermarket that sells them fresh.
Mozzarella Cheese: You can’t forget about the cheese! Gooey, melty mozzarella on top brings the whole sub together. Shred your own for the best melt!
Is Meatball Marinara Sub Good for You?
Oh, let’s get real for a second. While Meatball Marinara Subs are undoubtedly delicious, they are comfort food, so they do have their indulgent side.
Ground Beef: Provides a good source of protein, iron, and essential nutrients, but if you’re watching your fat intake, consider leaner options like ground turkey.
Breadcrumbs: While they can add calories, they’re also a great source of carbs for energy, especially if you’re particularly active. You could swap for whole grain breadcrumbs for added fiber.
Cheese: Offers calcium and protein but keep an eye on portions if you’re watching saturated fat.
In moderation, this sub can definitely fit into a balanced diet, especially when paired with a side salad! Just know that it’s more of a treat than a daily staple.
Ingredients
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 cup breadcrumbs (Italian-style for extra flavor)
– 1 large egg
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 cups marinara sauce (homemade is best)
– 4 sub rolls
– 1 to 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
– Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
**Serves**: 4 hungry folks!
How to Make Meatball Marinara Sub?
1. **Preheat the oven** to 375°F (190°C) while you mix everything.
2. **In a bowl**, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, minced garlic, and Parmesan cheese. Mix until just combined—avoid overmixing, as this can lead to tough meatballs!
3. **Form the mixture** into meatballs, about the size of a golf ball.
4. **In a skillet**, heat a little olive oil over medium heat. Cook the meatballs for about 5-7 minutes until they are browned on all sides. Don’t worry if they’re not fully cooked through; they’ll finish cooking in the sauce.
5. **Pour in the marinara sauce**, cover, and let simmer for about 15-20 minutes. The meatballs will soak in all that saucy goodness!
6. **Cut the sub rolls** in half and place them on a baking sheet.
7. **Spoon the meatballs and sauce** into each sub roll, then sprinkle with lots of mozzarella cheese.
8. **Bake in the oven** for about 10-12 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden.
9. **Garnish with basil** if you like!
10. **Serve with extra marinara on the side** for dipping. You won’t regret it!
Your Meatball Marinara Masterpiece!
Feel free to get creative! You can add sautéed peppers and onions for some extra flavor or even throw in some spinach for a veggie boost. If you want to switch it up, try using different cheeses, like provolone or fontina.
I really hope you give this Meatball Marinara Sub a try! It’s such a comforting dish that never fails to bring joy—perfect for gathering friends or just treating yourself after a long day. I’d love to hear how yours turn out, so please share your experience! Happy cooking!