Get ready to transform your ordinary dinner into an extraordinary culinary experience with this irresistible Pan Baked Meatball Sub! Imagine tender, juicy meatballs nestled in a warm, crispy hoagie roll, smothered in rich marinara sauce and melted mozzarella cheese. This classic American comfort food is not just a meal – it's a flavor-packed journey that will have your family and friends begging for seconds.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
- 4 hoagie rolls
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly using your hands until all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Shape the meat mixture into uniform meatballs, approximately 1-
- 5 inches in diameter. Aim to create about 12-16 meatballs depending on size preference.
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add meatballs and cook, turning occasionally, until browned on all sides and cooked through, approximately 8-10 minutes.
- Pour marinara sauce into the skillet with the meatballs. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5-7 minutes, ensuring meatballs are fully coated and heated through.
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Slice hoagie rolls lengthwise, being careful not to cut completely through.
- Place meatballs inside each hoagie roll, distributing them evenly. Spoon additional marinara sauce over the meatballs.
- Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese generously over the meatballs in each roll.
- Transfer prepared subs to a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 5-7 minutes, or until cheese is melted and rolls are slightly crispy.
- Remove from oven, let cool for 2-3 minutes, then slice diagonally and serve hot.
Tips
- Mix Meat Gently: When combining ingredients for meatballs, mix with a light hand to keep the meat tender and prevent tough meatballs.
- Uniform Size Matters: Use a cookie scoop or weigh each meatball to ensure even cooking and consistent size.
- Don't Overcrowd the Skillet: Cook meatballs in batches if necessary to ensure they brown properly and cook evenly.
- Choose Quality Ingredients: Use fresh breadcrumbs and high-quality ground beef for the best flavor and texture.
- Cheese Tip: For extra flavor, try mixing some Italian herbs into your shredded mozzarella before sprinkling.
- Toasting Hack: Lightly toast the inside of the hoagie rolls before adding meatballs to prevent sogginess and add extra crunch.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the meatballs in advance and reheat them in the marinara sauce for a quick and easy meal.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 620kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 32g
Saturated Fat: 14g
Cholesterol: 125mg
