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Nothing epitomizes comfort food quite like a warm, hearty meatball sub, particularly when it is filled with succulent, flavorful meatballs, lavishly drenched in rich marinara sauce, and topped with ooey-gooey mozzarella cheese. For those of us who grew up in Italian-American households, Sunday dinners were sacred, and meatballs often took center stage. The savory aroma of simmering marinara sauce paired with the smell of freshly baked bread would fill our homes, cultivating an atmosphere of warmth, love, and togetherness. These Hearty Italian Meatball Subs with Melty Mozzarella pay homage to those cherished family traditions, bringing a taste of nostalgia to your dining table. Whether you're preparing for a cozy dinner at home or hosting a casual gathering with friends, these meatball subs are sure to impress.

Italian Meatball Subs with Mozzarella

Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with these Hearty Italian Meatball Subs topped with melty mozzarella. This recipe celebrates family traditions with succulent meatballs, savory marinara sauce, and gooey cheese, reminiscent of cozy Sunday dinners. Perfect for a night in or casual gatherings, discover how to create a satisfying meal that combines rich flavors and delicious textures, transporting you straight to an Italian trattoria. Enjoy every heartfelt bite!
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Ingredients
  

For the Meatballs:

1 lb ground beef

1 lb ground pork

1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably Italian seasoned)

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

2 cloves garlic, minced

1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

1 large egg

1 tsp salt

1/2 tsp black pepper

1 tsp dried oregano

1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)

For the Marinara Sauce:

2 cups crushed tomatoes (canned or fresh)

2 tbsp olive oil

1 small onion, finely chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 tsp sugar

1/4 cup fresh basil, torn

Salt and pepper to taste

For the Subs:

4 hoagie rolls

8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced

Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Extra grated Parmesan for topping

Instructions
 

Make the Meatballs:

    - In a large bowl, combine ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, parsley, egg, salt, pepper, oregano, and red pepper flakes. Mix well until combined.

      - Roll the mixture into 2-inch meatballs and set aside on a baking sheet.

        Cook the Meatballs:

          - Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

            - In a large skillet over medium heat, add a splash of olive oil and cook the meatballs in batches until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Transfer the browned meatballs to a plate.

              Prepare the Marinara Sauce:

                - In the same skillet, add 2 tablespoons of olive oil and sauté the chopped onion until softened, about 3-4 minutes.

                  - Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

                    - Add the crushed tomatoes, sugar, fresh basil, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.

                      - Return the meatballs to the skillet, coating them in the sauce. Cover and let simmer on low for 15 minutes.

                        Assemble the Subs:

                          - Cut hoagie rolls lengthwise, but do not cut all the way through. Toast them in the oven for 2-3 minutes if you’d like them slightly crispy.

                            - Spoon 2-3 meatballs with sauce into each roll. Top with slices of fresh mozzarella cheese.

                              Melt the Cheese:

                                - Place the assembled subs on a baking sheet and bake in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melty and bubbly.

                                  Garnish and Serve:

                                    - Remove from the oven and add fresh basil leaves and additional grated Parmesan on top. Serve hot and enjoy your delicious Italian meatball subs!

                                      Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 20 minutes | 45 minutes | 4 servings