Easy Weeknight Meatball Sub

These Easy Weeknight Meatball Subs are the perfect combination of flavor and convenience, making them an excellent choice for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. With juicy meatballs nestled in soft buns and smothered in marinara sauce, this dish is sure to delight everyone at the table. The best part? They are simple to prepare and can be customized for any occasion, from a family dinner to a game day feast.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 45 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Flavor Packed: The combination of beef, garlic, and Italian seasoning creates a deliciously savory meatball that everyone will love.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve with a side salad or crispy fries for a complete meal that pleases all palates.
• Family Friendly: These subs are sure to be a hit with kids and adults alike!
• Meal Prep Friendly: You can make the meatballs ahead of time or use frozen ones to save even more time.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into cooking these delightful meatball subs, gather your essential tools. Having everything ready will streamline your preparation process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Baking sheet
• Skillet
• Saucepan
• Tongs

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A large bowl is necessary for combining ingredients evenly to create flavorful meatballs.
• Baking sheet: This helps in baking the meatballs evenly without sticking.
• Skillet: Ideal for browning the meatballs before adding them to the sauce for extra flavor.
• Saucepan: Perfect for heating up your marinara sauce while you prepare the subs.

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Ingredients

To whip up these delicious Easy Weeknight Meatball Subs, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Meatballs

• 1 pound ground beef (95% lean)
• 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1 large egg
• 1-2 garlic cloves (minced)
• 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 1/2 teaspoon salt

For Assembly

• 24 meatballs homemade or frozen
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 8 hot dog buns
• 1 1/2 cups mozzarella

How to Make Easy Weeknight Meatball Sub

Step 1: Prepare the Meatball Mixture

In a mixing bowl, combine ground beef, panko breadcrumbs, egg, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, and salt. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated.

Step 2: Form the Meatballs

Roll the mixture into small balls about one inch in diameter. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Step 3: Bake the Meatballs

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake the meatballs for about 20 minutes or until they are cooked through and browned on the outside.

Step 4: Heat the Marinara Sauce

While the meatballs are baking, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add your marinara sauce and let it simmer gently.

Step 5: Combine Meatballs with Sauce

Once cooked, add the baked meatballs to the skillet with marinara sauce. Stir gently to coat each meatball evenly with sauce.

Step 6: Assemble Your Subs

In each hot dog bun, place three meatballs along with some extra marinara sauce. Top generously with mozzarella cheese.

Step 7: Broil Until Golden

Place assembled subs under a broiler for about 2-3 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.

Enjoy your homemade Easy Weeknight Meatball Subs!

How to Serve Easy Weeknight Meatball Sub

These Easy Weeknight Meatball Subs are perfect for a quick and delightful dinner. They can be customized with various toppings and sides to suit different tastes.

Classic Toppings

• Shredded Lettuce: Adds a fresh crunch that balances the meatiness of the subs.
• Sliced Tomatoes: Juicy tomatoes enhance flavor and provide freshness.
• Pickles: A tangy addition that complements the savory meatballs.

Cheese Variations

• Parmesan Cheese: Grated parmesan sprinkled on top adds a sharp, nutty flavor.
• Provolone Cheese: Melty provolone enhances the richness of the dish.

Spicy Options

• Jalapeños: For those who like heat, sliced jalapeños add a spicy kick.
• Hot Sauce: Drizzling your favorite hot sauce over the meatballs can elevate the flavor profile.

How to Perfect Easy Weeknight Meatball Sub

To ensure your Easy Weeknight Meatball Subs are always delicious, consider these helpful tips.

• Bold Seasoning: Use ample Italian seasoning to maximize flavor in your meatballs.
• Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh garlic and herbs for a vibrant taste.
• Proper Cooking Time: Ensure meatballs are cooked through but not dry; aim for a juicy texture.
• Quality Buns: Choose soft, fresh hot dog buns to soak up the marinara sauce without falling apart.

Best Side Dishes for Easy Weeknight Meatball Sub

Pairing side dishes with your Easy Weeknight Meatball Subs can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options.

1. Garlic Bread: Perfect for mopping up any leftover marinara sauce, it’s a classic accompaniment.
2. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce with creamy dressing provides a refreshing contrast.
3. Coleslaw: A crunchy and tangy slaw adds texture and balances flavors nicely.
4. Oven-Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables roasted until tender make a healthy side choice.
5. Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy sweet potato fries offer sweetness that pairs well with savory subs.
6. Cucumber Salad: Light and refreshing, this salad is an excellent palate cleanser.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can elevate your Easy Weeknight Meatball Sub experience. Here are some pitfalls to steer clear of:

• Skipping the seasoning: Without proper seasoning, your meatballs may taste bland. Always measure and mix in the Italian seasoning and red pepper flakes.

• Overcrowding the pan: If you crowd the meatballs while cooking, they won’t brown properly. Cook them in batches to ensure even cooking and a nice crust.

• Using stale bread crumbs: Stale panko can lead to dry meatballs. Ensure your bread crumbs are fresh for the best texture and flavor.

• Not letting the sauce simmer: A quick heat on the sauce won’t develop its flavors fully. Allow it to simmer for a bit before serving for a richer taste.

• Ignoring cheese quality: Low-quality cheese can result in less flavor and texture. Use fresh mozzarella for that gooey, melty goodness.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover subs in an airtight container.
• They will keep well for up to 3 days.

Freezing Easy Weeknight Meatball Sub

• Place assembled subs in freezer-safe bags or containers.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Easy Weeknight Meatball Sub

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Wrap the subs in foil and bake for about 15 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat, add a little olive oil, and warm each side of the sub for about 3-5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common queries regarding the Easy Weeknight Meatball Sub that might help you as you prepare this dish.

Can I use turkey instead of beef for Easy Weeknight Meatball Sub?

Yes, ground turkey is a great alternative if you’re looking for a leaner option while still enjoying delicious meatballs.

What toppings can I add to my Easy Weeknight Meatball Sub?

Feel free to customize with toppings like fresh basil, sautéed peppers, or a drizzle of balsamic glaze for added flavor.

How do I prevent my meatballs from falling apart?

Ensure you include enough binding agents like panko and egg, and handle the mixture gently when forming your meatballs.

Can I make these easy weeknight meatball subs ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the meatballs and sauce in advance. Assemble just before serving for optimal freshness.

Final Thoughts

These Easy Weeknight Meatball Subs are not only comforting but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize them with different proteins or toppings based on your preferences. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy a hearty meal that’s perfect for any night of the week!