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Meatball Subs

Savory Meatball Subs That Bring Family Together

These meatball subs bring family together with homemade meatballs nestled in crusty rolls, perfect for any occasion.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Resting Time 20 minutes
Total Time 2 hours 20 minutes
Servings: 6 subs
Course: Lunch
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

For the Meatballs
  • 2 lbs Ground Beef 80/20 mix
  • 1 sleeve Saltine Crackers crushed
  • 2 whole Eggs room temperature
  • 1 tbsp Salt to taste
  • 1 tbsp Pepper freshly ground
  • 1 tbsp Garlic Powder
  • 1 tbsp Onion Powder
  • 1 tbsp Dried Oregano
For the Sauce
  • 1 medium Yellow Onion minced
  • 2 whole Green Peppers rough chopped
  • 1 whole Red Pepper rough chopped
  • 1 pint Cherry or Grape Tomatoes
  • 1 jar Spaghetti Sauce store-bought or homemade
  • 2 tbsp Sugar adjust to taste
  • Fresh Oregano for garnish, optional
For Assembly
  • 6 rolls French Bread Rolls
  • Toppings mini fresh mozzarella balls and hot pepper rings optional

Equipment

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Skillet
  • Parchment-lined baking sheet
  • Large pot

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, minced onion, crushed saltine crackers, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and dried oregano.
  2. Whisk together eggs in a small bowl and pour into the meat mixture. Gently combine until integrated, then form small meatballs.
  3. Let the meatballs rest at room temperature for 20 minutes.
  4. In the skillet, add oil and sauté green peppers, red pepper, cherry tomatoes, and minced onion for about 5-7 minutes.
  5. Brown the meatballs in the same skillet for about 3-4 minutes on each side, then transfer to a large pot.
  6. Add the sautéed vegetables, marinara sauce, and sugar to the pot, stirring to coat the meatballs.
  7. Cover and let simmer on low heat for 90 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  8. Check that meatballs are fully cooked and internal temperature reaches 160°F.
  9. While the meatballs finish, slice and toast the French rolls in the oven at 375°F for about 5 minutes.
  10. Assemble by spooning meatballs and sauce onto the toasted rolls and adding sautéed vegetables and toppings.

Notes

These meatball subs are perfect for family gatherings and can be made ahead of time and frozen for convenience.