Meatball Sandwich Recipe – American , Italian Special
Indulge in the comforting flavors of a classic Meatball Sandwich, where tender, savory meatballs are nestled in a soft hoagie roll and smothered in rich marinara sauce and gooey melted mozzarella cheese. This satisfying dish combines the heartiness of homemade meatballs with the delightful crunch of a toasted sandwich, making it perfect for a cozy dinner or a casual lunch. With every bite, you’ll experience a delicious blend of Italian flavors that will transport you to a rustic trattoria, making this meatball sandwich a beloved favorite for all ages!
- Prep Time20 min
- Cook Time20 min
- Total Time40 min
For the Meatballs:
- 1 pound ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 large egg
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
For the Sandwich:
- 4 hoagie rolls or sub rolls
- 2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)
Make the Meatballs:
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, garlic, egg, salt, pepper, oregano, and basil. Mix until just combined.
Form the mixture into meatballs, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter, and place them on a baking sheet.
Bake the Meatballs:
Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes or until cooked through and browned.
Heat the Marinara Sauce:
While the meatballs are baking, heat the marinara sauce in a saucepan over medium heat.
Assemble the Sandwiches:
Once the meatballs are done, place 2-3 meatballs on each hoagie roll. Spoon marinara sauce over the meatballs and top with shredded mozzarella cheese.
Broil:
Place the assembled sandwiches under the broiler for 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Keep a close eye to prevent burning.
Serve:
Remove from the oven, garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired, and serve hot.
Recipe Notes :
Meat Options: Feel free to mix beef with ground pork or turkey for a different flavor profile.
Breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs can add extra crunch. You can also use Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs for added flavor.
Herbs: Fresh basil can be added for a more aromatic touch. Dried oregano is also a great addition.
Sauce: Homemade marinara sauce can elevate the dish if you have the time. You can also use store-bought for convenience.
Cheese Variations: For a twist, try using provolone or gouda instead of mozzarella.
Add-Ons: Consider adding sautéed onions or peppers to the sandwiches for extra flavor and texture.
Freezing: Meatballs can be made ahead of time and frozen. Just reheat in the sauce before serving.
