A meatball sub bake recipe combines the classic flavors of a meatball sub with the convenience of a casserole. It’s a hearty and satisfying dish that’s perfect for a weeknight meal or a weekend gathering.
To make a meatball sub bake, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 cup bread crumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 1/4 cup chopped onion
- 1/4 cup chopped green bell pepper
- 1/4 cup chopped red bell pepper
- 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
- 1 (15 ounce) can tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 12 hoagie rolls, split
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Once you have all of your ingredients, you can start assembling the meatball sub bake. Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, bread crumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, onion, green bell pepper, and red bell pepper. Mix well until all of the ingredients are evenly combined. Roll the mixture into 12 meatballs. In a large skillet, brown the meatballs over medium heat. Once the meatballs are browned, drain off any excess grease. In a separate bowl, combine the tomato sauce, tomato paste, oregano, basil, salt, and black pepper. Stir well until all of the ingredients are combined. Add the meatballs to the sauce and simmer for 15 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through. To assemble the meatball sub bake, place the hoagie rolls on a baking sheet. Top each roll with a meatball and some of the sauce. Sprinkle with mozzarella cheese. Bake in the preheated oven for 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Serve immediately.
meatball sub bake recipe
A meatball sub bake recipe is a versatile dish that can be tailored to your liking. Here are five key aspects to consider when making a meatball sub bake:
- Meatballs: The meatballs are the heart of the dish, so it’s important to use high-quality ground beef and seasonings. You can also add other ingredients to the meatballs, such as bread crumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, or chopped vegetables.
- Sauce: The sauce is what brings the dish together, so it’s important to use a flavorful sauce. You can use a store-bought sauce or make your own. If you’re making your own sauce, be sure to simmer it for a while to allow the flavors to develop.
- Cheese: The cheese is what makes the dish gooey and delicious. You can use any type of cheese that you like, but mozzarella is a classic choice.
- Bread: The bread is what holds the dish together. You can use any type of bread that you like, but hoagie rolls are a popular choice.
- Toppings: You can top your meatball sub bake with any toppings that you like. Some popular toppings include onions, peppers, mushrooms, and jalapeos.
Meatballs
The meatballs are the most important part of a meatball sub bake. They provide the flavor and texture that makes the dish so delicious. That’s why it’s important to use high-quality ground beef and seasonings. You can also add other ingredients to the meatballs, such as bread crumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, or chopped vegetables, to give them even more flavor and texture.
Here are some tips for making great meatballs:
- Use a combination of ground beef and ground pork. This will give the meatballs a more flavorful and juicy texture.
- Season the meatballs liberally with salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs and spices.
- Add some bread crumbs to the meatballs to help them bind together.
- Grate some Parmesan cheese into the meatballs for extra flavor and richness.
- Chop some vegetables, such as onions, peppers, or mushrooms, and add them to the meatballs for extra flavor and texture.
Once you’ve made the meatballs, brown them in a skillet over medium heat. This will help to seal in the flavor and juices.
The meatballs are now ready to be added to your meatball sub bake. Simply place the meatballs in a baking dish and top them with your favorite sauce and cheese. Bake the meatball sub bake in a preheated oven until the meatballs are cooked through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Sauce
The sauce is an essential component of a meatball sub bake recipe. It provides the moisture and flavor that make the dish so delicious. That’s why it’s important to use a flavorful sauce that complements the meatballs and cheese. You can use a store-bought sauce or make your own. If you’re making your own sauce, be sure to simmer it for a while to allow the flavors to develop.
Here are some tips for making a great sauce for a meatball sub bake:
- Use a combination of tomatoes, onions, garlic, and herbs. This will give the sauce a rich and flavorful base.
- Season the sauce liberally with salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs and spices.
- Add some tomato paste to the sauce to give it a thicker consistency and a deeper flavor.
- Simmer the sauce for at least 30 minutes, or even longer, to allow the flavors to develop.
Once you’ve made the sauce, it’s time to assemble the meatball sub bake. Simply place the meatballs in a baking dish and top them with the sauce. Then, sprinkle the cheese on top and bake the meatball sub bake in a preheated oven until the meatballs are cooked through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
The sauce is what brings the meatball sub bake together and makes it a delicious and satisfying dish. By following these tips, you can make a flavorful sauce that will make your meatball sub bake a hit.
Cheese
Cheese is an essential component of a meatball sub bake recipe. It provides the gooey, delicious texture that makes the dish so irresistible. Mozzarella is a classic choice for meatball sub bakes because it melts well and has a mild flavor that complements the other ingredients in the dish. However, you can use any type of cheese that you like. Some other popular choices include cheddar, provolone, and Parmesan.
The cheese in a meatball sub bake recipe serves several purposes. First, it helps to bind the meatballs together. Second, it provides a delicious, gooey texture that complements the other ingredients in the dish. Third, it helps to brown the meatballs and give them a crispy exterior. Finally, the cheese helps to keep the meatballs moist and juicy.
If you are looking for a delicious and easy way to make a meatball sub bake, be sure to use plenty of cheese. The cheese will help to make the dish gooey, delicious, and satisfying.
Bread: The bread is what holds the dish together. You can use any type of bread that you like, but hoagie rolls are a popular choice.
In the context of a meatball sub bake recipe, the bread serves several important functions. First, it provides a structural foundation for the dish, holding the meatballs and sauce together and preventing them from falling apart. Second, the bread absorbs the flavorful sauce and juices from the meatballs, adding moisture and richness to each bite. Third, the bread provides a contrasting texture to the soft and juicy meatballs, creating a satisfying and balanced eating experience.
- Types of bread: While hoagie rolls are a popular choice for meatball sub bakes, many other types of bread can also be used. Italian bread, French bread, and sourdough bread are all good options. Ultimately, the best type of bread to use is one that you enjoy the taste and texture of.
- Size and shape: The size and shape of the bread you use will depend on the size of your meatballs and the baking dish you are using. If you are using a large baking dish, you may want to use a larger loaf of bread, such as a hoagie roll or a French baguette. If you are using a smaller baking dish, you may want to use smaller rolls, such as slider buns or dinner rolls.
- Toasting the bread: Toasting the bread before adding it to the meatball sub bake is a great way to add extra flavor and texture. Toasting the bread will also help to prevent it from becoming soggy from the sauce.
By choosing the right type of bread and preparing it properly, you can ensure that your meatball sub bake is a delicious and satisfying meal.
Toppings
Toppings play a crucial role in enhancing the flavor and visual appeal of a meatball sub bake recipe. They add an extra layer of texture, taste, and aroma, making the dish more satisfying and enjoyable.
- Variety and Customization: Toppings provide endless possibilities for customization, allowing individuals to tailor their meatball sub bake to their personal preferences. From classic options like sauted onions and bell peppers to more adventurous choices like jalapeos or pineapple, the choice of toppings is vast and varied.
- Flavor and Texture: Toppings introduce a range of flavors and textures to the dish. Onions offer a sweet and savory note, while peppers add a vibrant crunch. Mushrooms provide an earthy umami flavor, and jalapeos bring a spicy kick. The combination of these toppings creates a harmonious balance of tastes and textures.
- Visual Appeal: Toppings not only enhance the flavor but also contribute to the visual presentation of the meatball sub bake. Vibrant colors and textures of various toppings make the dish visually appealing, stimulating the appetite and making it a feast for the eyes.
- Complementary Ingredients: Toppings complement the other ingredients in the meatball sub bake, creating a cohesive and well-rounded dish. The sweetness of onions balances the savory meatballs, while the acidity of tomatoes is cut by the richness of melted cheese. Each topping contributes to the overall harmony of flavors.
In conclusion, toppings are an integral part of a meatball sub bake recipe. They offer endless possibilities for customization, enhancing the flavor, texture, and visual appeal of the dish. By incorporating a variety of toppings, individuals can create a personalized and delicious culinary experience that satisfies their taste buds and delights their senses.
Frequently Asked Questions about Meatball Sub Bake Recipes
Question 1: What is the best type of ground beef to use for meatballs in a meatball sub bake?
Answer: For the most flavorful and juicy meatballs, use a combination of 80% lean ground beef and 20% ground pork.
Question 2: Can I use a store-bought sauce for my meatball sub bake, or do I have to make my own?
Answer: You can certainly use a store-bought sauce to save time. However, if you have the time, making your own sauce from scratch will give you more control over the flavor and ingredients.
Question 3: What is the best way to cook the meatballs for a meatball sub bake?
Answer: For the best results, brown the meatballs in a skillet over medium heat before adding them to the baking dish. This will help to seal in the flavor and juices.
Question 4: What type of cheese is best for a meatball sub bake?
Answer: Mozzarella is a classic choice for meatball sub bakes because it melts well and has a mild flavor. However, you can use any type of cheese that you like.
Question 5: Can I add other ingredients to my meatball sub bake, such as vegetables or pasta?
Answer: Yes, you can certainly add other ingredients to your meatball sub bake to customize it to your liking. Some popular additions include chopped onions, peppers, mushrooms, and cooked pasta.
Question 6: What is the best way to reheat a meatball sub bake?
Answer: The best way to reheat a meatball sub bake is to place it in a preheated oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about 15 minutes, or until it is warmed through.
These are just a few of the most frequently asked questions about meatball sub bake recipes. With so many different variations and options, you’re sure to find a recipe that you’ll love.
Transition to the next article section:
Now that you have all the information you need to make a delicious meatball sub bake, it’s time to get started! In the next section, we’ll provide you with a step-by-step guide to making a classic meatball sub bake.
Tips for Making a Meatball Sub Bake
A meatball sub bake is a hearty and delicious dish that’s perfect for a weeknight meal or a weekend gathering. Here are ten tips to help you make the best meatball sub bake possible:
Tip 1: Use high-quality ingredients. The quality of your ingredients will have a big impact on the flavor of your meatball sub bake. Use the best ground beef you can find, and be sure to use fresh vegetables and herbs.
Tip 2: Season your meatballs well. Don’t be afraid to season your meatballs liberally with salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs and spices. This will help to give them flavor and depth.
Tip 3: Brown your meatballs before baking them. Browning your meatballs before baking them will help to seal in the flavor and juices. It will also give them a nice crispy exterior.
Tip 4: Use a flavorful sauce. The sauce is what brings the meatball sub bake together, so it’s important to use a flavorful sauce. You can use a store-bought sauce or make your own. If you’re making your own sauce, be sure to simmer it for a while to allow the flavors to develop.
Tip 5: Use plenty of cheese. Cheese is what makes a meatball sub bake gooey and delicious. Be sure to use plenty of cheese, and use a cheese that melts well. Mozzarella is a classic choice, but you can use any type of cheese that you like.
Tip 6: Don’t overbake your meatball sub bake. Overbaking your meatball sub bake will dry out the meatballs and make the cheese tough. Bake it just until the meatballs are cooked through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Tip 7: Let your meatball sub bake rest before serving. Letting your meatball sub bake rest before serving will allow the flavors to develop and the juices to redistribute. This will result in a more flavorful and juicy meatball sub bake.
Tip 8: Serve your meatball sub bake with your favorite toppings. Meatball sub bakes are delicious on their own, but they can be even better with your favorite toppings. Some popular toppings include onions, peppers, mushrooms, and jalapeos.
Tip 9: Make a double batch and freeze one for later. Meatball sub bakes are great for meal prep. Make a double batch and freeze one for later. That way, you’ll have a delicious meal ready to go on those busy nights.
Tip 10: Enjoy! Meatball sub bakes are a delicious and easy meal that the whole family will love. So enjoy!
Summary of key takeaways or benefits:
- Using high-quality ingredients will result in a more flavorful meatball sub bake.
- Seasoning your meatballs well will give them flavor and depth.
- Browning your meatballs before baking them will seal in the flavor and juices and give them a crispy exterior.
- Using a flavorful sauce will bring the meatball sub bake together.
- Using plenty of cheese will make the meatball sub bake gooey and delicious.
- Don’t overbake your meatball sub bake or the meatballs will dry out and the cheese will toughen.
- Letting your meatball sub bake rest before serving will allow the flavors to develop and the juices to redistribute.
- Meatball sub bakes are delicious on their own, but they can be even better with your favorite toppings.
- Meatball sub bakes are great for meal prep. Make a double batch and freeze one for later.
- Meatball sub bakes are a delicious and easy meal that the whole family will love.
Transition to the article’s conclusion:
By following these tips, you can make a meatball sub bake that is delicious, flavorful, and satisfying. So what are you waiting for? Give it a try today!
Conclusion
The meatball sub bake is a versatile and delicious dish that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. It is a hearty and satisfying meal that is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering. The key to a great meatball sub bake is to use high-quality ingredients and to cook the meatballs thoroughly. With a little bit of effort, you can create a meatball sub bake that will be the star of your next meal.
In this article, we have explored the different aspects of a meatball sub bake recipe, from the ingredients to the cooking process. We have also provided you with some tips and tricks to help you make the best meatball sub bake possible. We encourage you to experiment with different ingredients and flavors to create your own unique meatball sub bake recipe.
The meatball sub bake is a classic dish that is sure to please everyone at your table. So next time you are looking for a delicious and easy meal, give the meatball sub bake a try. You won’t be disappointed!