Mini Meatball Sub Sandwiches
Highlighted under: Fast & Simple Meals
These Mini Meatball Sub Sandwiches are the perfect bite-sized treat for your next gathering. Packed with flavor and easy to make, they're sure to be a hit!
These Mini Meatball Sub Sandwiches are a delightful twist on a classic favorite. They are perfect for parties, game day, or a simple family dinner. Each bite is bursting with savory flavors, making them irresistible!
You'll Love These Mini Meatball Sub Sandwiches Because
- Juicy meatballs packed with Italian herbs
- Perfectly toasted bread with melty cheese
- Ideal for sharing or enjoying on your own
The Perfect Party Food
Mini Meatball Sub Sandwiches are the ultimate crowd-pleaser for any social gathering. Their bite-sized nature makes them easy to serve and even easier to eat, making them an ideal choice for parties, game days, or family gatherings. With the rich flavors of juicy meatballs and the gooey goodness of melted cheese, these sandwiches will disappear faster than you can say, 'Who wants seconds?'
Not only are these mini subs delicious, but they also offer versatility in presentation. You can easily customize them with different sauces or toppings, allowing each guest to personalize their sandwich. This adaptability ensures that everyone at your gathering will find something they love, making them a hit with guests of all ages.
Homemade vs. Store-Bought
While store-bought meatball subs may be convenient, nothing compares to the flavor and freshness of homemade versions. When you prepare the meatballs from scratch, you can control the ingredients, ensuring a healthier and tastier outcome. Plus, the smell of baking meatballs wafting through your kitchen is an experience you won’t want to miss!
Using fresh herbs like parsley and quality ingredients such as Parmesan cheese elevates these mini meatball subs to restaurant-quality status. By opting for homemade, you not only enhance the taste but also create a more satisfying dining experience for yourself and your guests.
Perfect Pairings
These Mini Meatball Sub Sandwiches pair wonderfully with a variety of sides. Consider serving them alongside a crisp green salad to balance the richness of the meatballs. A side of crispy baked fries or sweet potato wedges can also complement the flavors nicely while adding a satisfying crunch to your meal.
For drinks, opt for a refreshing soda, iced tea, or even a light red wine to enhance the Italian flavors of the sandwiches. These pairing options will elevate your meal experience, ensuring that your gathering is not only delicious but also memorable.
Ingredients
For the Meatballs
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped parsley
- 1 egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
For the Sandwiches
- 12 small sub rolls
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Make sure to gather all your ingredients before starting the recipe for a smooth cooking experience!
Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Make the Meatballs
In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, parsley, egg, garlic, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Mix until just combined, then form into small meatballs (about 1 inch in diameter).
Bake the Meatballs
Place the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until cooked through.
Assemble the Sandwiches
While the meatballs are baking, slice the sub rolls and lightly toast them. Once the meatballs are done, warm the marinara sauce in a saucepan.
Add Meatballs and Cheese
Place 2-3 meatballs in each sub roll, spoon marinara sauce over them, and top with shredded mozzarella cheese.
Melt the Cheese
Return the assembled sandwiches to the oven and bake for an additional 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serve
Remove from the oven, garnish with fresh basil, and serve hot!
Enjoy your delicious Mini Meatball Sub Sandwiches with your favorite sides!
Tips for Success
To ensure your meatballs are perfectly cooked, use a meat thermometer to check that they reach an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C). This guarantees a juicy, flavorful meatball without the risk of undercooking. If you prefer a bit of spice, consider adding red pepper flakes to the mix for an extra kick.
For an even more flavorful sauce, try simmering your marinara with additional herbs and spices. A dash of red wine or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper can transform a store-bought sauce into something special.
Storage and Reheating
If you have leftovers, store the assembled sandwiches in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through and the cheese is melted again. Avoid using the microwave, as it can make the bread soggy.
For meal prep, you can prepare the meatballs in advance and freeze them. Thaw and reheat them as needed for quick and easy sandwiches any time you crave a delicious bite.
Variations to Try
Feel free to experiment with different types of meat for your meatballs. Ground turkey or chicken can be excellent alternatives for a lighter version of these mini subs. Additionally, try adding different cheeses like provolone or fontina for a unique twist on the classic flavor.
For a vegetarian option, swap the meatballs for grilled vegetables or a hearty bean mixture. These variations ensure that everyone can enjoy a delicious mini sub, no matter their dietary preferences.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make the meatballs ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the meatballs and freeze them before baking. Just thaw and bake when ready to serve.
→ What can I use instead of ground beef?
You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
→ Can I use store-bought meatballs?
Absolutely! Just heat them up and follow the assembly instructions.
→ How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Mini Meatball Sub Sandwiches
These Mini Meatball Sub Sandwiches are the perfect bite-sized treat for your next gathering. Packed with flavor and easy to make, they're sure to be a hit!
Created by: Olivia
Recipe Type: Fast & Simple Meals
Skill Level: Beginner
Final Quantity: 12 sandwiches
What You'll Need
For the Meatballs
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped parsley
- 1 egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
For the Sandwiches
- 12 small sub rolls
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, parsley, egg, garlic, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Mix until just combined, then form into small meatballs (about 1 inch in diameter).
Place the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until cooked through.
While the meatballs are baking, slice the sub rolls and lightly toast them. Once the meatballs are done, warm the marinara sauce in a saucepan.
Place 2-3 meatballs in each sub roll, spoon marinara sauce over them, and top with shredded mozzarella cheese.
Return the assembled sandwiches to the oven and bake for an additional 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Remove from the oven, garnish with fresh basil, and serve hot!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 220 kcal
- Total Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
- Sodium: 350mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 20g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 2g
- Protein: 12g