Easy Weeknight Meatball Sub

These Easy Weeknight Meatball Subs are perfect for a quick, satisfying dinner. With their rich flavors and hearty ingredients, they appeal to everyone in the family. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a relaxed weekend gathering, these subs are sure to impress. Their simplicity and deliciousness make them an ideal choice for various occasions, from casual dinners to game day feasts.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: Ready in just 45 minutes, these meatball subs fit perfectly into your hectic evenings.
• Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of Italian seasoning and marinara sauce creates a mouthwatering experience that will keep you coming back for more.
• Customizable Options: Feel free to swap out the protein or add your favorite toppings to make it uniquely yours.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the comforting taste of these meatball subs, making them a hit at the dinner table.
• Great for Meal Prep: Make a batch ahead of time for easy lunches or quick dinners throughout the week.

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Tools and Preparation

To prepare these Easy Weeknight Meatball Subs, gather your tools and ensure you have everything you need before starting. This will streamline your cooking process and make it more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Mixing bowl
• Skillet
• Oven

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet: Ideal for cooking meatballs evenly in the oven without overcrowding.
• Mixing bowl: Essential for combining all ingredients thoroughly before forming meatballs.

Ingredients

These Easy Meatball Subs are the ultimate comfort food scaled down to a balanced proportion size.

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 the Subs

• 24 meatballs (homemade or frozen)
• 2 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 cup marinara sauce
• 8 hot dog buns
• 1 1/2 cups mozzarella

How to Make Easy Weeknight Meatball Sub

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your meatballs cook evenly and become perfectly golden brown.

Step 2: Prepare the Meatballs

In a mixing bowl:
1. Combine ground beef, panko breadcrumbs, egg, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, and salt.
2. Mix until well combined but do not overwork the meat.
3. Form mixture into small balls about 1 inch in diameter.

Step 3: Cook the Meatballs

In a skillet over medium heat:
1. Add olive oil and swirl to coat the pan.
2. Place meatballs in the skillet in batches; cook until browned on all sides (about 5-7 minutes).
3. Transfer cooked meatballs to a baking sheet.

Step 4: Bake the Meatballs

Place the baking sheet in your preheated oven:
1. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.

Step 5: Assemble Your Subs

While meatballs are baking:
1. Heat marinara sauce in a separate saucepan until simmering.
2. Once baked, place meatballs inside hot dog buns.
3. Spoon marinara sauce over the top and sprinkle with mozzarella cheese.

Step 6: Broil for Extra Flavor

For added texture:
1. Place assembled subs under the broiler for about 2-3 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

Now your Easy Weeknight Meatball Subs are ready to serve! Enjoy this delightful meal that’s sure to become a family favorite!

How to Serve Easy Weeknight Meatball Sub

Serving your Easy Weeknight Meatball Subs can be just as fun as making them. Here are some delicious suggestions to elevate your meal experience.

Classic Pairings

• Chips: Serve with crispy potato chips for a satisfying crunch that complements the softness of the meatballs.
• Pickles: A side of dill pickles adds a tangy bite and balances the richness of the sub.

Salad Options

• Caesar Salad: A light Caesar salad can refresh your palate after each hearty bite.
• Coleslaw: The creamy texture of coleslaw pairs well with the meatballs, adding a nice contrast.

Dipping Sauces

• Marinara Sauce: Offer extra marinara on the side for those who love a saucy experience.
• Garlic Aioli: This creamy dip adds a gourmet touch and enhances the flavors of the subs.

How to Perfect Easy Weeknight Meatball Sub

Perfecting your Easy Weeknight Meatball Sub is all about attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your subs are always top-notch.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs and ingredients make a noticeable difference in flavor.
• Preheat Your Oven: Ensuring your oven is hot before baking helps achieve a crispy, golden finish on the meatballs.
• Don’t Overcook: Keep an eye on cooking times to prevent dry meatballs; they should be tender and juicy.
• Customize Bread Choice: Feel free to swap hot dog buns for hoagie rolls or garlic bread for added flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Easy Weeknight Meatball Sub

Pairing side dishes with your Easy Weeknight Meatball Subs can enhance your meal. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Garlic Bread: This classic side, infused with butter and garlic, is perfect for soaking up marinara sauce.
2. Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal veggies roasted until caramelized offers a nutritious balance to your meal.
3. French Fries: Crispy fries add a comforting crunch that kids especially love alongside their sandwiches.
4. Sweet Potato Wedges: Baked sweet potato wedges provide a sweet contrast that complements savory meatballs.
5. Stuffed Mushrooms: These bite-sized delights stuffed with cheese and herbs make fantastic finger food.
6. Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad can cleanse the palate while adding a touch of sweetness to the meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Easy Weeknight Meatball Subs can be simple, but there are common mistakes that can affect the final result.

• Overmixing the meat: Mixing the meat too much can lead to tough meatballs. Stir just until combined for a tender texture.
• Skipping the seasoning: Failing to season properly can make your subs bland. Use Italian seasoning and garlic for a flavor boost.
• Neglecting the sauce: Not warming your marinara sauce can result in cold subs. Always heat the sauce before assembling.
• Choosing the wrong bread: Using regular sandwich bread instead of hot dog buns can make them soggy. Stick to sturdy buns designed for subs.
• Ignoring cheese quality: Low-quality cheese may not melt well and can affect taste. Opt for fresh mozzarella for a creamy, delicious finish.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-4 days for best freshness.

Freezing Easy Weeknight Meatball Sub

• Wrap each sub tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for optimal flavor.

Reheating Easy Weeknight Meatball Sub

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Wrap in foil and heat for about 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently to avoid overcooking.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water, cover, and steam lightly until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Easy Weeknight Meatball Subs that many readers may have.

How do I make Easy Weeknight Meatball Sub healthier?

You can use lean ground turkey or chicken instead of beef and whole grain buns for a healthier option.

Can I prepare Easy Weeknight Meatball Sub ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the meatballs and sauce in advance and simply assemble before serving.

What toppings go well with Easy Weeknight Meatball Sub?

Consider adding sautéed peppers, onions, or fresh basil as tasty toppings to enhance flavor.

Can I use frozen meatballs for Easy Weeknight Meatball Sub?

Yes, frozen meatballs are a great shortcut. Just ensure they are heated thoroughly before serving.

Final Thoughts

These Easy Weeknight Meatball Subs are not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize them with different sauces or toppings to suit your taste. Try this recipe tonight and enjoy a comforting meal that is sure to please everyone at the table!