Introduction
If you’re a fan of delicious and satisfying sandwiches, then you must try your hand at toasting meatball subs. This classic Italian-American dish is a crowd-pleaser and will surely become a family favorite. With just a few simple ingredients and easy steps, you can create a mouthwatering meatball sub that is bursting with flavors. Whether you’re hosting a party, looking for a quick lunch idea, or simply craving a hearty sandwich, this recipe is perfect for any occasion. In this article, we will guide you through the process of making the perfect toasted meatball sub, step by step!
Preparing the Meatballs
Gathering the Ingredients
To start, let’s gather all the necessary ingredients for the meatballs. You will need:
– Ground beef or a mixture of half ground beef and half ground pork (about 1 pound)
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped parsley
– 1 egg
– 2 cloves of garlic (minced)
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Mixing the Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef (or beef and pork mixture), breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper. Use your hands to mix all the ingredients together until well combined.
Forming the Meatballs
Once the ingredients are mixed, it’s time to form the meatballs. Take small portions of the mixture, about the size of a golf ball, and roll them between your hands to form meatballs. Place the formed meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Baking the Meatballs
Preheating the Oven
Before baking the meatballs, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure even cooking.
Baking Time
Place the baking sheet with the meatballs in the preheated oven. Bake for approximately 20-25 minutes or until the meatballs are cooked through and browned on the outside. The cooking time may vary slightly depending on the size of your meatballs, so keep a close eye on them.
Using a Thermometer
If you want to be extra sure that the meatballs are fully cooked, you can use a meat thermometer. Insert the thermometer into one of the meatballs, and it should read an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) when they are done.
Preparing the Meatball Subs
Choosing the Bread
Now that your meatballs are cooked and ready, it’s time to focus on the bread. For a true meatball sub experience, go for a traditional Italian sub roll. Look for a soft and slightly crusty roll at your local bakery or grocery store. However, if you can’t find sub rolls, you can also use hoagie rolls or even a baguette sliced lengthwise.
Splitting the Rolls
Carefully split the rolls lengthwise, leaving one side hinged like a clamshell. This will help to keep your meatball sandwich intact as you assemble and toast it.
Adding Sauce and Cheese
Spread a generous amount of marinara sauce on both sides of the split roll. The tomato-based sauce will enhance the flavor of the meatballs. For an extra kick, you can also add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or dried oregano. Then, place a few meatballs on the bottom half of the roll. You can adjust the number of meatballs depending on your preference. Lastly, top the meatballs with slices of mozzarella cheese. The cheese will melt and create a gooey layer of deliciousness.
Toasting the Meatball Subs
Once your subs are assembled, it’s time to toast them! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the subs on a baking sheet and transfer them to the preheated oven. Bake for about 8-10 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the bread is toasted to your liking.
Broiling Option
If you prefer a crispier and more golden top, you can also use the broiler function in your oven. Simply switch to the broil setting for the last 1-2 minutes of cooking. Keep a close eye on the subs, as they can quickly go from golden brown to burnt under the broiler.
Serving and Enjoying
Garnishing the Subs
Once the meatball subs are toasted to perfection, remove them from the oven. Sprinkle some chopped parsley or basil on top for a touch of freshness. You can also add a drizzle of olive oil or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavor.
Side Dishes
Serve your toasted meatball subs while they’re still hot and gooey. They pair well with a variety of side dishes like seasoned fries, a mixed green salad, or a bowl of tomato soup. The options are endless!
Enjoying the Flavor
Take a big bite into your meatball sub, and savor the explosion of flavors. The tender and juicy meatballs, the tangy marinara sauce, the melty cheese, and the crispy bread will surely satisfy your cravings. It’s a taste sensation that will leave you wanting more.
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The meatball subs will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply place them back in the oven until warmed through or use a microwave for a quick fix.
Conclusion
Toasting meatball subs is a simple and rewarding process that yields incredibly delicious results. From preparing the flavorful meatballs to assembling and toasting the subs, each step is crucial in creating the perfect sandwich. Whether you enjoy them as a family meal or serve them at a gathering, these meatball subs are sure to impress. So why not gather the ingredients, follow the steps, and treat yourself to a mouthwatering meatball sub? It’s a recipe that combines simplicity, flavor, and a whole lot of yum!