Italian Meatball Sub Sandwiches: 8 Delicious Steps

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Italian Meatball Sub Sandwiches are a delightful combination of homemade, flavorful meatballs smothered in rich marinara sauce and topped with a melty blend of cheeses, all nestled inside crispy sub rolls. This recipe captures the essence of Italian-American cuisine, providing a comforting meal that pleases every palate. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or looking for a hearty weeknight dinner, these sandwiches are sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Italian Meatball Sub Sandwiches

These Italian Meatball Sub Sandwiches are not only delicious but also incredibly satisfying. Here are a few reasons to fall in love with this recipe:

Flavorful Meatballs: The blend of ground beef and pork creates a juicy, rich flavor.
Easy to Make: The recipe is straightforward, perfect for anyone wanting to learn how to make Italian meatball subs.
Customizable: You can add your favorite toppings, making each sandwich unique.
Great for Meal Prep: These sandwiches can be assembled ahead of time, making them ideal for busy nights.
Perfectly Cheesy: The mixture of provolone, fontina, and parmesan cheeses makes each bite irresistibly gooey.
Family-Friendly: Kids love the combination of flavors, making it a hit at the dinner table.
Comfort Food: It’s a classic dish that brings warmth and nostalgia to any meal.

Ingredients for Italian Meatball Sub Sandwiches

Gather these items:

1 pound (454g) ground beef
1 pound (454g) ground pork
3 and 1/2 teaspoons garlic powder
3 teaspoons onion powder
2 and 1/2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
2 teaspoons salt
3/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
2 large eggs
1 cup (100g) parmesan cheese, finely grated
1 cup panko breadcrumbs
3/4 cup (171ml) water
1/3 cup (76ml) olive oil
8 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
2 (28 ounce) cans crushed tomatoes with basil
1 and 1/2 teaspoons salt
1/2 teaspoon granulated sugar
1 and 1/2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
8 crusty sub rolls, cut in half
8 ounces provolone cheese, shredded
6 ounces fontina cheese, shredded
2 ounces parmesan cheese, finely grated
Fresh basil, torn, for garnish (optional)

How to Make Italian Meatball Sub Sandwiches Step-by-Step

Step 1: In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef and ground pork. Add garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, freshly ground black pepper, eggs, parmesan cheese, panko breadcrumbs, and water. Mix everything thoroughly but gently to evenly incorporate all ingredients without overworking the meat.
Step 2: Using your hands or a scoop, form the meat mixture into evenly sized balls, about 1.5 to 2 inches in diameter, to ensure uniform cooking.
Step 3: Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a little olive oil if needed. Brown the meatballs on all sides until they develop a golden crust. Transfer the browned meatballs to a plate and set aside.
Step 4: In the same skillet, heat 1/3 cup olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and crushed red pepper flakes, sautéing until fragrant but not browned, about 1 minute. Pour in the crushed tomatoes with basil cans, add salt, granulated sugar, and Italian seasoning. Stir well and bring the sauce to a simmer.
Step 5: Gently add the browned meatballs into the simmering sauce. Cover and cook on low heat for 20 minutes, allowing the meatballs to cook through and the sauce to thicken, stirring occasionally.
Step 6: Stir in the chopped fresh basil leaves into the sauce and meatballs mixture right before serving to keep the fresh flavor intact.
Step 7: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Open the sub rolls and layer each with a generous spoonful of meatballs and sauce, then top evenly with shredded provolone, fontina, and grated parmesan cheese.
Step 8: Place the assembled subs on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for about 8-10 minutes, or until the cheeses are melted and bubbly and the rolls are slightly toasted.
Step 9: Remove from oven, optionally garnish with torn fresh basil, extra grated parmesan, and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for some heat. Serve immediately with plenty of napkins and enjoy!

Pro Tips for the Perfect Italian Meatball Sub Sandwiches

Keep these in mind:

This recipe is perfect for a hearty, crowd-pleasing meal.
Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor.
Feel free to adjust the spice level by adding more or less crushed red pepper flakes.
For extra flavor, consider adding Italian herbs to the sauce.

Best Ways to Serve Italian Meatball Sub Sandwiches

When serving these sandwiches, consider pairing them with:

Classic side salad for a refreshing contrast.
Chips or fries for a crunchy texture.
Garlic bread for added flavor and comfort.

How to Store and Reheat Italian Meatball Sub Sandwiches

To store leftovers, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or foil and place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can be reheated in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes or until heated through. This makes them a great option for meal prep!

Frequently Asked Questions About Italian Meatball Sub Sandwiches

What’s the secret to perfect Italian Meatball Sub Sandwiches?

The secret lies in using a mix of meats for the meatballs and ensuring they are browned properly before simmering them in the sauce. This adds depth to the flavor.

Can I make Italian Meatball Sub Sandwiches ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the meatballs and sauce ahead of time. Assemble the sandwiches just before baking for the best texture.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Italian Meatball Sub Sandwiches?

Be careful not to overmix the meat when forming the meatballs, as this can lead to dense meatballs. Also, ensure the sauce simmers gently for the best flavor infusion.

Variations of Italian Meatball Sub Sandwiches You Can Try

Feel free to experiment with these variations:

Cheesy Meatball Sub Ideas: Add extra cheese on top before baking for a gooey finish.
Baked Italian Meatball Sub Recipe: Bake the assembled subs in the oven for a crispy texture.
Slow Cooker Meatball Sub Sandwiches: Cook the meatballs in a slow cooker for a hands-off approach.

For more delicious recipes, check out Creamy Italian Sausage Soup or Italian Sausage with Peppers and Onions. If you’re looking for a great side, try Garlic Bread to complement your meal.