If you’re craving a meatball sub recipe jamjar that brings you the flavors of an authentic Italian sandwich, then look no further. This mouth-watering recipe delivers juicy, tender meatballs smothered in marinara sauce, all nestled in a toasted sub roll. Whether for a family dinner or a cozy weekend treat, this meatball sub recipe is easy, full of flavor, and perfect for when you want something comforting and delicious. Get ready to dive into a combination of melty cheese, zesty sauce, and perfectly seasoned meatballs.
Ingredients and Equipment
Ingredients:
- Ground Beef (80% lean) – 1 pound
- Breadcrumbs – ⅓ cup
- Parmesan Cheese (grated) – ¼ cup
- Garlic (minced) – 3 cloves
- Onion (small, finely chopped) – 1
- Egg – 1
- Dried Oregano – 1 teaspoon
- Dried Basil – 1 teaspoon
- Salt – ½ teaspoon
- Ground Black Pepper – ½ teaspoon
- Marinara Sauce – 2 cups
- Sub Rolls – 4
- Mozzarella Cheese (shredded) – 1 cup
- Olive Oil – 2 tablespoons
Equipment:
- Mixing Bowl
- Large Frying Pan
- Baking Tray
- Oven
- Wooden Spoon
- Tongs
- Jamjar for marinara sauce storage
Time Needed:
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
Step-by-Step Meatball Sub Recipe Jamjar
Step 1: Preparing the Meatball Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, finely chopped onion, egg, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and ground black pepper. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated. This step will take about 5 minutes.
Step 2: Forming the Meatballs
Using your hands, form the mixture into golf ball-sized meatballs. You should be able to make around 12-14 meatballs. Place them on a plate or tray. This step should take another 5 minutes.
Step 3: Cooking the Meatballs
Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large frying pan over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the meatballs carefully. Cook them for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally so that all sides are browned. The goal is to get a nice crust on the outside.
Step 4: Simmering in Marinara Sauce
Once the meatballs are browned, pour the marinara sauce into the frying pan. Lower the heat to a simmer, cover, and let the meatballs cook in the sauce for 15 minutes. This will ensure that they are tender and fully cooked through while also absorbing the rich flavors of the sauce.
Step 5: Toasting the Sub Rolls
While the meatballs are simmering, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Slice the sub rolls lengthwise but not all the way through, leaving them hinged. Place them on a baking tray and toast in the oven for 5 minutes until they are slightly crispy.
Step 6: Assembling the Meatball Subs
Once the meatballs are done and the sub rolls are toasted, it’s time to assemble. Place 3-4 meatballs into each sub roll. Spoon additional marinara sauce over the meatballs.
Step 7: Adding the Mozzarella Cheese
Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese generously over the top of each sub. Place the assembled subs back on the baking tray and return to the oven for 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Tips for the Perfect Meatball Sub Recipe Jamjar
Use Fresh Ingredients
For the best flavor, use fresh garlic, onion, and herbs. Fresh ingredients make a huge difference in the taste of your meatball sub.
Make-Ahead Marinara Sauce
Consider preparing a larger batch of marinara sauce and storing it in a jamjar for future use. This way, you always have a delicious homemade sauce on hand for quick recipes.
Variations on the Meatball Sub Recipe Jamjar
Classic Italian Meatball Sub
If you want to make your meatball sub recipe jamjar more classic, consider adding a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese on top along with the mozzarella before toasting in the oven.
Spicy Meatball Sub
For those who love a bit of heat, add red pepper flakes to the meatball mixture or sprinkle them over the assembled sub before toasting. This gives your meatball sub an extra kick that pairs well with the marinara sauce.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Do I Keep My Meatballs from Falling Apart?
To ensure your meatballs hold together well, make sure to use an egg and breadcrumbs as binders. Also, avoid overmixing the ingredients as this can make the meatballs tough.
Can I Use Store-Bought Marinara Sauce for the Meatball Sub Recipe Jamjar?
Yes, you can absolutely use store-bought marinara sauce if you’re short on time. However, making your own marinara and storing it in a jamjar adds a personal touch and elevates the flavor.
Can I Freeze the Meatballs?
Yes, the meatballs can be frozen either before or after cooking. To freeze uncooked meatballs, place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, freeze until solid, then transfer them to a zip-top bag. Cooked meatballs can be frozen in an airtight container along with the sauce for up to 3 months.
Serving Suggestions for Meatball Sub Recipe Jamjar
Side Dishes
Pair your meatball sub with a simple Caesar salad or some garlic bread for a complete meal. You could also serve with potato chips or fries for a more casual feel.
Drinks
Serve with a cold iced tea or a refreshing lemonade to balance out the richness of the sub. These drinks complement the flavors without overpowering them.
Storage Tips for Leftover Meatball Sub Recipe Jamjar
If you have leftover meatballs or assembled subs, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place the subs in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes or until warmed through.
Jamjar Storage for Marinara Sauce
If you’ve made extra marinara sauce, store it in a jamjar in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. This makes it easy to use for other dishes like pasta or pizza.
Customizing Your Meatball Sub Recipe Jamjar
Transform your meatball sub into a masterpiece with these amazing tips and tricks! Check out the full guide on Customizing Your Meatball Sub Recipe.
Cheese Options
If you’re not a fan of mozzarella, you can use provolone or cheddar as a substitute. Each cheese brings its unique flavor, so feel free to experiment to find your favorite combination.
Herb Variations
For an added layer of flavor, consider using fresh basil leaves or parsley as a garnish. This gives your meatball sub a burst of freshness and enhances the presentation.
Using Different Proteins
While ground beef is traditional, you can also make this meatball sub recipe jamjar using ground turkey, chicken, or even a combination of beef . Just be sure to adjust the seasoning accordingly to suit the different proteins.
Why You’ll Love This Meatball Sub Recipe Jamjar
This meatball sub recipe jamjar is ideal for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend meal. The juicy meatballs, zesty marinara, and melty mozzarella combine to create the perfect comfort food. Plus, the leftovers can be just as delicious, making this a meal you can enjoy more than once.
The use of a jamjar for storing the sauce ensures you always have a fresh batch of homemade marinara at your fingertips, adding convenience to your cooking routine. This is more than just a sandwich; it’s a delicious experience that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Feel free to add your favorite toppings, whether it’s banana peppers, sautéed mushrooms, or a bit of arugula for a peppery crunch. Customization is key when making the perfect meatball sub recipe jamjar to suit your taste!