Delicious Italian Meatball Submarine Recipe
Welcome to my culinary corner! Today, we’re diving deep into the mouth-watering world of Italian cuisine with an irresistible Italian Meatball Submarine Recipe. This classic dish is a true comfort food, combining savory meatballs, hearty marinara sauce, and melting cheese all stuffed into a warm, crusty sub roll. Whether you’re hosting a game-day gathering, planning a family dinner, or simply indulging your cravings, this recipe will deliver all the flavors you love. Let’s get started!
The Origins of the Recipe
The meatball sub, also known as the ‘meatball sandwich’ or ‘Italian meatball sub,’ boasts a rich history rooted in Italian-American culture. While meatballs themselves can be traced back to ancient Roman cuisine, the fusion of meatballs in a sandwich form emerged in the United States during the early 20th century. Italian immigrants brought their cherished recipes overseas, but they adapted them to incorporate local ingredients and preferences. This creative blend resulted in the familiar sub sandwich we adore today, often enjoyed at delis and pizzerias across the country. The meatball submarines became particularly popular in the Northeastern U.S., especially in New York and New Jersey, where they are a staple on many restaurant menus.
Ingredients for a Serving Size of 4-6 People
Below is a comprehensive list of ingredients you’ll need to create these delicious Italian meatball subs, formatted in a table for your convenience:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Ground beef | 1 pound |
| Breadcrumbs | 1 cup |
| Parmesan cheese (grated) | ½ cup |
| Egg | 1 large |
| Fresh parsley (chopped) | ¼ cup |
| Garlic (minced) | 3 cloves |
| Salt | 1 teaspoon |
| Black pepper | ½ teaspoon |
| Marinara sauce | 2 cups |
| Sub rolls | 4-6 rolls |
| Mozzarella cheese (shredded) | 1 cup |
Step-by-Step Directions
Now, let’s put all these ingredients together to make a delicious meatball submarine! Follow these easy steps to create a meal that your family and friends will love.
Step 1: Prepare the Meatballs
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, chopped parsley, egg, salt, and black pepper. Mix until all ingredients are well combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tough meatballs.
Step 2: Form the Meatballs
Using your hands, form the mixture into meatballs about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. Place the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper to catch any drips while baking.
Step 3: Bake the Meatballs
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake the meatballs for about 20 minutes, or until they are browned and cooked through. You can also cook them on the stovetop in olive oil if you prefer.
Step 4: Warm the Marinara Sauce
While the meatballs are baking, pour the marinara sauce into a saucepan and warm it over medium heat. Once the meatballs are cooked, add them to the sauce, stirring gently to coat each meatball.
Step 5: Prepare the Sub Rolls
Slice each sub roll lengthwise without cutting all the way through. If you like, toast the rolls in the oven for a few minutes until they are crispy and warm, adding a bit more texture.
Step 6: Assemble the Submarine
To assemble, place 3-4 meatballs in each sub roll, spoon additional marinara sauce over the top, and sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese generously over the meatballs.
Step 7: Melt the Cheese
Place the assembled submarines back in the oven for 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Keep an eye on them to avoid burning!
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy!
Remove the meatball subs from the oven and let them cool for a minute before serving. Garnish with extra parsley or Parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy your delicious Italian Meatball Submarines with friends and family!
FAQ
1. Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?
Yes! Ground turkey or chicken will work well, offering a lighter option. Just be aware that the flavor might be slightly different, so consider adding extra herbs and spices for added taste.
2. How do I store leftovers?
If you have any leftover meatball subs, wrap them tightly in aluminum foil or store them in an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in the oven for the best texture, or in the microwave, although the sub rolls may become soft.
3. Can I freeze the meatballs?
Absolutely! You can freeze the uncooked meatballs for future use. Once formed, place them on a cookie sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. They can be cooked directly from frozen, but will need a little longer in the oven.
And there you have it! A delicious Italian Meatball Submarine Recipe that promises to be a hit at any gathering. I hope you enjoy making this delightful dish as much as I do. Buon appetito!
