Introduction

Have you ever wondered if a delicious meal could be both satisfying and budget-friendly? The Smashed Meatball Sub not only answers this question but also challenges the notion that gourmet flavors need to come with a hefty price tag. This delightful recipe transforms simple ingredients into a mouthwatering feast, providing both comfort and value, making it a perfect choice for families or individuals looking to stretch their food dollars.

Ingredients List

Creating a Smashed Meatball Sub is simple and requires ingredients that you might already have in your pantry. Here’s what you will need:

• 1 pound ground beef (or ground turkey for a lighter option)
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (Italian seasoned breadcrumbs add extra flavor)
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 large egg
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
• 4 sub rolls or hoagie buns
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)

For substitutions, consider using whole wheat or gluten-free breadcrumbs, vegan cheese alternatives for a dairy-free version, or adding chopped vegetables like bell peppers or onions to the meat mixture for additional nutrition.

Timing

This recipe requires a total of 30 minutes to prepare and cook, which is significantly quicker than the average time of 90 minutes for traditional meatball recipes. A perfect solution for busy weeknights!

Preparation Time

10 minutes

Cooking Time

20 minutes

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Meatball Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper. Get your hands dirty and mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as that can lead to tough meatballs!

Step 2: Shape the Meatballs

Roll the mixture into meatballs about the size of a golf ball for even cooking. You should end up with about 12 meatballs.

Step 3: Cook the Meatballs

In a large skillet over medium heat, add a splash of olive oil. Once hot, add the meatballs, cooking in batches if necessary. Sear them for about 5 minutes on each side until they are golden brown. Remove them from the skillet and set aside.

Step 4: Add Marinara Sauce

In the same skillet, pour in the marinara sauce and bring it to a gentle simmer. Carefully place the cooked meatballs back into the skillet, coating them in the sauce. Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes to heat through and combine the flavors.

Step 5: Assemble the Subs

Preheat your broiler. Slice the sub rolls open and place them on a baking sheet. Ladle a generous amount of meatballs and sauce onto each roll. Top with shredded mozzarella cheese.

Step 6: Broil and Serve

Place the sandwiches under the broiler for 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Remove from the oven, garnish with fresh basil or parsley, and serve hot. Enjoy the gooey, flavorful explosion in every bite!

Nutritional Information

Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional content per serving (one sub):

• Calories: 450
• Protein: 26g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fat: 20g
• Sodium: 850mg
• Fiber: 2g

Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe

If you’re looking to make healthier choices without sacrificing taste, consider these alternatives:

• Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken to reduce fat content.
• Use whole grain or cauliflower rolls instead of traditional sub rolls.
• Incorporate chopped spinach or diced zucchini into the meat mixture for added nutrients.
• Choose low-sodium marinara sauce to cut down on sodium intake.

Serving Suggestions

While enjoying your Smashed Meatball Sub, consider pairing it with:

• Side salad with a light vinaigrette to balance the meal.
• Chips or sweet potato fries for extra crunch.
• Garlic bread to satisfy any bread lovers.

Feel free to get creative with toppings—add sliced jalapenos for spice or a drizzle of balsamic reduction for a gourmet touch!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure your Smashed Meatball Subs turn out perfectly, keep these pitfalls in mind:

• Overmixing the meatball ingredients can lead to a dense texture—mix just until combined.
• Don’t skip preheating the broiler; this is crucial for achieving that bubbly, golden cheese.
• Allow the meatballs to rest for a few minutes before serving to let the flavors develop further.

Storing Tips for the Recipe

If you have leftovers (which is rare with these tasty subs!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the microwave or oven until heated through. You can also freeze the meatballs separately from the rolls, which can extend their shelf life to 3 months. Just remember to thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Conclusion

The Smashed Meatball Sub is a delicious, budget-friendly meal perfect for any occasion. Packed with flavor and easy to prepare, it’s sure to satisfy your cravings without breaking the bank. Try this recipe today, and don’t forget to share your experience in the comments or subscribe for more delightful recipes!

FAQs

A: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the meatballs and sauce in advance and store them in the fridge for up to 2 days. Assemble the subs just before serving for the best flavor and texture.

B: What can I serve with Smashed Meatball Subs?

Consider complementary sides like a fresh garden salad, crispy garlic bread, or a bowl of chili for a hearty pairing.

C: Can I use a different type of bread?

Yes! Feel free to use any type of bread or rolls you like—ciabatta, baguette, or even lettuce wraps for a low-carb option.

D: Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely! You can swap the meat with plant-based ground meat alternatives or use cooked lentils for a hearty vegetarian version.

E: How can I make this dish spicier?

To add heat, include red pepper flakes to the meat mixture or top your sub with spicy jalapenos or a drizzle of hot sauce before serving.

Ultimate Smashed Meatball Sub: Budget-Friendly Delight!

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

• Author: jamal
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Discover the ultimate budget-friendly smashed meatball sub recipe! Enjoy a delightful, tasty meal without breaking the bank. Perfect for any occasion.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

1 pound of ground beef or ground turkey

1/2 cup of breadcrumbs

1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese

1 large egg

2 cloves of garlic, minced

1 teaspoon of salt

1/2 teaspoon of black pepper

1 jar (24 oz) of marinara sauce

4 sub rolls or hoagie buns

1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese

Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper. Mix until just combined.

Roll the mixture into meatballs about the size of a golf ball for even cooking. Aim for about 12 meatballs.

In a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of olive oil. Once hot, cook the meatballs for 5 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove and set aside.

In the same skillet, add the marinara sauce and bring to a simmer. Place the meatballs in the sauce and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes.

Preheat your broiler. Slice the sub rolls open and place on a baking sheet. Add a generous amount of meatballs and sauce to each roll, and top with mozzarella cheese.

Broil for 2-3 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley, and serve hot.

Notes

The Smashed Meatball Sub is a delicious, budget-friendly meal perfect for any occasion. Packed with flavor and easy to prepare, it’s sure to satisfy your cravings without breaking the bank.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Dinner
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4 servings
• Calories: 450
• Sugar: 0g
• Fat: 20g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 26g