Nothing says comfort food like a hearty meatball sub, and these Mini Italian Meatball Subs bring all that classic flavor in a fun, handheld size. Perfect for game days, casual parties, or a cozy family dinner, these subs feature juicy homemade meatballs simmered in rich marinara sauce, tucked inside warm, toasted rolls, and topped with melty mozzarella cheese. Their small size makes them great for serving a crowd¡ªor for satisfying a big craving without a huge sandwich commitment. They¡¯re easy to make, deeply satisfying, and sure to disappear quickly!
INGREDIENTS
For the meatballs:
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? 1 pound ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
? 1/2 cup Italian breadcrumbs
? 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
? 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (or 1 tablespoon dried)
? 2 cloves garlic, minced
? 1 egg
? 1 teaspoon salt
? 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
? 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
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For assembly:
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? 2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
? 8 mini sub rolls or slider buns
? 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
? 2 tablespoons butter, melted
? 1 teaspoon garlic powder
? 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
? Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)
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INSTRUCTIONS
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1. Make the meatballs:
Preheat your oven to 400¡ãF (200¡ãC). In a large bowl, combine the ground meat, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, parsley, garlic, egg, salt, pepper, and red pepper
flakes. Mix just until combined¡ªdon¡¯t overwork the meat. Roll into 1-inch balls and place them on a lined baking sheet.
2. Bake the meatballs:
Bake for 15¨C18 minutes, until cooked through and slightly browned.
3. Simmer in sauce:
While the meatballs bake, warm the marinara sauce in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the meatballs are done, gently transfer them into the sauce
and simmer for 5¨C10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Prepare the rolls:
Split the mini sub rolls without cutting all the way through. Mix the melted butter with the garlic powder and Italian seasoning. Brush the inside of each
roll with the seasoned butter and lightly toast them under the broiler for 1¨C2 minutes.
5. Assemble the subs:
Place 3¨C4 meatballs inside each toasted roll. Spoon a little extra sauce over the top and sprinkle with shredded mozzarella. Place the assembled subs on
a baking sheet.
6. Melt the cheese:
Return the subs to the oven and broil for 1¨C2 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Watch them carefully!
7. Serve:
Garnish with fresh basil or parsley, if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!
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