Authentic American Meatball Sub Sandwich Recipe

Introduction

Craving a truly authentic American meatball sub? Forget the chain restaurants – this recipe delivers a flavor explosion that will transport you straight to your favorite neighborhood deli. We’re talking juicy, seasoned meatballs simmered in a rich tomato sauce, nestled in a toasted roll, and smothered with melted cheese. This isn’t just a sandwich; it’s an experience.

The Ultimate Meatball Sub Recipe: From Scratch to Sandwich

Crafting the Perfect Meatballs

The heart of a great meatball sub is, of course, the meatballs! Here’s how to make them unforgettable:

• Meat Mixture: Combine ground beef (80/20 blend for flavor) with ground pork (optional, but adds richness).
• Breadcrumbs: Use fresh breadcrumbs soaked in milk or cream for a tender, moist meatball.
• Seasonings: Don’t skimp on the garlic, onion, Parmesan cheese, Italian herbs (oregano, basil, parsley), salt, and pepper. A pinch of red pepper flakes adds a subtle kick.
• Egg: Binds the ingredients together.
• Mixing: Gently combine all ingredients until just incorporated. Overmixing leads to tough meatballs.
• Shaping: Roll into evenly sized meatballs (about 1.5-2 inches in diameter).
• Browning: Sear the meatballs in a skillet with olive oil until browned on all sides. This adds depth of flavor.

Simmering in a Flavorful Tomato Sauce

The sauce is where the magic happens. It’s not just about covering the meatballs; it’s about infusing them with flavor.

• Base: Start with a high-quality canned crushed tomatoes or tomato passata.
• Aromatics: Sauté diced onion and garlic in olive oil until softened and fragrant.
• Seasoning: Add dried oregano, basil, salt, pepper, and a pinch of sugar (to balance the acidity).
• Simmer: Add the browned meatballs to the sauce, bring to a simmer, and cook for at least 1-2 hours, or until the meatballs are cooked through and the sauce has thickened. The longer it simmers, the richer the flavor.

Assembling the Authentic Meatball Sub

Now for the grand finale! This is where all your hard work pays off.

1. Roll Selection: Choose a sturdy Italian roll or hoagie roll that can hold the juicy meatballs and sauce without falling apart.
2. Toasting: Lightly toast the cut sides of the roll under the broiler or in a toaster oven. This prevents the bread from getting soggy.
3. Meatball Placement: Generously pile the meatballs onto the toasted roll.
4. Sauce Drizzle: Spoon plenty of the tomato sauce over the meatballs.
5. Cheese Topping: Top with sliced mozzarella cheese, provolone cheese, or a blend of both.
6. Melting the Cheese: Place the assembled sub under the broiler until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Watch carefully to avoid burning!
7. Optional Garnishes: Sprinkle with fresh parsley or grated Parmesan cheese.

Tips for the Best Meatball Sub

• Quality Ingredients: Use the best quality ground meat, tomatoes, and cheese you can afford.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: When browning the meatballs, work in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan. This will ensure they brown evenly.
• Simmer Low and Slow: Simmering the meatballs in the sauce for a longer period allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
• Get Creative with Cheese: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese, such as Fontina or Asiago.
• Make Ahead: The meatballs and sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Conclusion

This authentic American meatball sub recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. With a little patience and attention to detail, you can create a sandwich that rivals any deli. So gather your ingredients, fire up the stove, and get ready to enjoy a truly unforgettable meal. Enjoy!