Italian Meatball Sandwiches are a beloved classic, combining hearty meatballs simmered in a rich tomato sauce and nestled in a crusty roll, then topped with a generous helping of melted cheese. This dish is a favorite for its bold flavors and satisfying textures, perfect for a filling lunch or a casual dinner. The meatballs, made from a blend of beef and pork, are seasoned with garlic, herbs, and Parmesan cheese, making them flavorful and tender. Topped with a savory marinara and slices of provolone or mozzarella, these sandwiches are baked until the cheese is bubbly and golden. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or looking for a comforting meal, Italian Meatball Sandwiches are sure to delight with their robust flavors and gooey, cheesy topping.
Ingredients:
- For the meatballs:
- 1/2 pound ground beef
- 1/2 pound ground pork
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 large egg, beaten
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- For the sauce:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- For assembly:
- 4 hoagie rolls, split
- 8 slices provolone or mozzarella cheese
- Fresh basil leaves (optional, for garnish)
Directions:
- Make the meatballs:
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, parsley, minced garlic, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix well until evenly combined. Form the mixture into 12-15 meatballs.
- Cook the meatballs:
- In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the meatballs on all sides. Remove and set aside.
- Prepare the sauce:
- In the same skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, cooking until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
- Simmer the meatballs:
- Return the meatballs to the skillet with the sauce. Cover and simmer on low heat for about 30 minutes, until meatballs are cooked through.
- Assemble the sandwiches:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the split hoagie rolls on a baking sheet. Spoon meatballs and sauce into each roll. Top each sandwich with two slices of cheese.
- Bake the sandwiches:
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve:
- Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired and serve hot.
Italian Meatball Sandwiches are not only a treat to eat but also fun to prepare. This recipe delivers all the warmth and comfort of traditional Italian cooking in a hand-held, scrumptious package, perfect for any meal that requires a touch of hearty indulgence.
