Italian Meatball Sub Sandwiches Recipe

Ingredients

• 1 pound (454g) ground beef
• 1 pound (454g) ground pork
• 3 1/2 teaspoons garlic powder
• 3 teaspoons onion powder
• 2 1/2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 3/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup (100g) parmesan cheese, finely grated
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 3/4 cup (171ml) water
• 1/3 cup (76ml) olive oil
• 8 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
• 2 (28-ounce) cans crushed tomatoes with basil
• 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
• 1/2 teaspoon granulated sugar
• 1 1/2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
• 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
• 8 crusty sub rolls, cut in half (cut 3/4 of the way through each roll)
• 8 ounces provolone cheese, shredded
• 6 ounces fontina cheese, shredded
• 2 ounces parmesan cheese, finely grated
• Fresh basil, torn, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. 1

   Prepare the Meatballs: In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, ground pork, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, eggs, parmesan cheese, panko breadcrumbs, and water. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly incorporated but do not overmix to keep meatballs tender.

2. 2

   Form the Meatballs: Shape the mixture into evenly sized meatballs, approximately 1 1/2 inches in diameter, ensuring uniform cooking.

3. 3

   Cook the Meatballs: Using a skillet over medium heat, brown the meatballs on all sides until nicely seared but not fully cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.

4. 4

   Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and crushed red pepper flakes; sauté until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes. Pour in crushed tomatoes with basil, then add salt, sugar, and Italian seasoning. Stir to combine and bring sauce to a gentle simmer.

5. 5

   Simmer Meatballs in Sauce: Carefully add the browned meatballs back into the sauce. Cover and let simmer on low heat for 25-30 minutes, allowing meatballs to cook through and absorb the sauce’s flavors. Stir occasionally.

6. 6

   Assemble the Subs: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut sub rolls three-quarters of the way through. Spoon generous amounts of meatballs and sauce into each roll. Top with shredded provolone, fontina, and parmesan cheeses.

7. 7

   Melt the Cheese: Place the assembled subs on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes or until the cheeses are melted and bubbly.

8. 8

   Garnish and Serve: Remove from oven, garnish with torn fresh basil if desired, and serve warm for a delicious Italian meatball sub experience.