Easy Homemade Meatball Recipe for Subs

Are you craving a delicious meatball sub that is both satisfying and easy to make? Look no further than this easy homemade meatball recipe for subs! Whether you're hosting a dinner, spoiling your family with a favorite meal, or just want something tasty for lunch, this guide will take you step-by-step through crafting mouthwatering meatballs perfectly suited for subs.

Ingredients You Will Need

To begin this culinary journey, you'll first need to gather your ingredients. The flavors in this easy homemade meatball recipe for subs are enriched by the quality of the ingredients you choose:

1 pound of ground beef (80% lean for flavor balance)
1 pound of ground pork (adds juiciness)
1 cup of breadcrumbs (Italian seasoned for added flair)
2 eggs (binds everything together)
1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese (for subtle cheesy undertones)
2 cloves of garlic, minced (aromatic and flavorful)
1 small onion, finely chopped (adds depth of flavor)
Salt and pepper to taste (personalize your seasoning)
1 tablespoon of Italian seasoning (herbal notes)
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish purposes)
1/4 cup of milk (keeps meatballs moist)
Red pepper flakes to taste (optional, for those who like a kick)

Preparing Your Meatballs

Once you've gathered all the necessary ingredients, it’s time to start the process of making your mouthwatering meatballs:

In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef and pork. These two meats together will give the meatballs texture and flavor.
Add the breadcrumbs, eggs, Parmesan cheese, garlic, onion, salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and milk to the meat mixture. Using your hands, gently mix until all the ingredients are just combined. Avoid overmixing as this can make your meatballs tough.
Once mixed, form your meatballs. Aim for golf-ball-sized meatballs to ensure they are the perfect size for subs. You should be able to make approximately 20-24 meatballs with this recipe size.
Place the shaped meatballs onto a tray or plate lined with parchment paper and refrigerate for about 30 minutes. This helps them hold their shape during cooking.

Cooking the Meatballs

Now that your meatballs are prepared, it's time to cook them to perfection:

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
While waiting for the oven to heat up, heat a small amount of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Brown the meatballs in batches by cooking each side until browned, about 4 minutes per side. This adds a crust and deep flavor to the meatballs.
Once all meatballs are browned, transfer them to a baking sheet lined with foil.
Bake in the preheated oven for an additional 10-12 minutes or until fully cooked through. They should register an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Assembling the Perfect Sub

The crowning moment of this journey is assembling your delicious sub. Here’s how you do it:

While the meatballs are finishing up in the oven, prepare the sub rolls. Slice them open and lightly toast under a broiler for about 1 minute to add a crispiness to your bread.
Warm marinara sauce in a saucepan and coat each meatball in the sauce.
Place your sauced meatballs onto the sub rolls, fitting as many as space allows.
Top with extra Parmesan cheese or a slice of mozzarella, then broil until the cheese is melted and bubbly – about 1-2 minutes.
Garnish with fresh chopped parsley and serve immediately.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of bread is best for meatball subs?

Torpedo rolls, hoagie rolls, or sub rolls are perfect choices. They are sturdy enough to hold the meatballs and sauce without falling apart.

Can these meatballs be frozen?

Yes, you can freeze the baked meatballs. Let them cool to room temperature, place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to three months. When ready to use, thaw in the refrigerator and reheat in your favorite sauce.

Can I use turkey instead of beef and pork for a healthier option?

Absolutely! Substitute ground turkey for a lighter version. Just ensure you balance the moisture with more milk or a touch of olive oil.

How do I prevent my meatballs from falling apart?

The eggs and breadcrumbs in the mixture act as binding agents, helping to keep the meatballs intact. Chilling them before cooking also helps to firm up the mixture.