Turkey Meatball Subs: Ultimate Cheesy Meatball Heaven

Growing up, Sundays were always a special day in our household. We would gather around the kitchen, eagerly awaiting the aroma of my grandmother’s famous meatball subs. Although the recipe has evolved over the years, the essence of those meals—sharing, savoring, and celebrating—remains the same. The joy I felt then is what I strive to bring to every dish I create today.

Food has a magical way of bringing people together, and nothing exemplifies this better than a hearty sandwich filled with flavorful meatballs. These meatball subs, inspired by my grandmother’s classic, are a tribute to those cherished memories. With each bite, you’ll experience a delightful blend of textures and flavors that are sure to make any gathering feel special.

Whether you’re hosting a casual get-together or simply cooking a comforting meal for your loved ones, these meatball subs will surely impress. The secret lies in the quality of the ingredients and the love you put into making them. As we dive into the recipe, I’ll share tips and tricks that ensure your subs turn out perfectly every time.

Join me on this culinary journey as we explore the art of making meatball subs from scratch. With a few simple steps and a touch of creativity, you can transform everyday ingredients into something truly extraordinary.

Turkey Meatball Subs

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• Author: Olivia
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 8 servings

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Description

Discover how to make delicious Turkey Meatball Subs with this easy recipe! Learn how to create flavorful meatballs and assemble the perfect sub sandwich. Perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.

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Ingredients

• – 1 pound (454 g) ground beef
• – 1/2 cup (120 ml) bread crumbs
• – 1 teaspoon (5 ml) dried basil
• – 1 teaspoon (5 ml) dried oregano
• – 1 teaspoon (5 ml) dried parsley
• – 1/2 teaspoon (3 ml) garlic powder
• – 1/2 cup (50 g) grated cheddar cheese
• – 1 large egg
• – 2 Tablespoons (30 ml) vegetable oil
• – 1 Tablespoon (15 ml) steak seasoning
• – 1 jar marinara sauce
• – 16 slices cheddar cheese
• – 8 buns or sandwich rolls

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Instructions

1. Set your oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit. In a spacious bowl, combine the ground beef, bread crumbs, dried basil, dried oregano, dried parsley, garlic powder, grated cheddar cheese, egg, vegetable oil, and steak seasoning. Shape the mixture into meatballs about 1-1/2 inches in diameter and arrange them on a greased baking sheet. Cook in the oven for 15 minutes, or until fully done.
2. Cut the buns in half and arrange them on a baking tray. Lay two slices of cheddar cheese on the top half of each bun. Switch the oven setting to broil and toast the buns until they are golden and the cheese is melted.
3. Heat the marinara sauce in a large saucepan over low to medium heat or use the microwave until it’s thoroughly warmed.
4. Place 3-4 meatballs on the bottom half of each toasted bun, pour marinara sauce over them, and then cover them with the top half of each bun.

Notes

• Opt for lean ground beef or ground turkey for a healthier alternative.
• Try different cheese varieties like mozzarella or provolone for a unique flavor.
• Sprinkle chopped fresh basil or parsley on top for a burst of freshness and color.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Calories: 450
• Fat: 25g
• Protein: 25g

Keywords: – Meatball sliders, – Baked meatballs, – Cheesy buns, – Marinara meatballs, – Provolone bun, – Oven-baked sliders

Mastering Turkey Meatball Subs

Fundamentals

The foundation of any great meatball sub starts with the meatballs themselves. While traditional recipes often use beef, turkey is a fantastic alternative that offers a lighter yet equally delicious flavor profile. Combining ground beef with classic Italian herbs like basil, oregano, and parsley, we create a savory base that’s both aromatic and flavorful.

To enhance the texture and bind the mixture, bread crumbs and a large egg are essential. The addition of grated cheddar cheese not only introduces a delightful creaminess but also balances the savory notes with a hint of richness. A dash of steak seasoning elevates the taste, ensuring each meatball is perfectly seasoned.

Preparation/Setup

Before you begin, preheat your oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit. This high temperature is critical for achieving a golden-brown exterior while keeping the inside juicy. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, bread crumbs, dried herbs, garlic powder, grated cheese, egg, vegetable oil, and steak seasoning. Mix everything thoroughly until well combined.

Shape the mixture into meatballs, approximately 1-1/2 inches in diameter, and arrange them on a greased baking sheet. This size ensures even cooking and a perfect fit for your sandwich rolls. Bake for 15 minutes or until the meatballs are fully cooked through. Meanwhile, prepare the buns by cutting them in half and laying two slices of cheddar cheese on the top half of each bun.

Crafting the Perfect Turkey Meatball Sub

Technique

Toasting the buns is a crucial step that should not be overlooked. By switching your oven setting to broil, you can achieve a perfectly golden, crispy exterior that complements the soft, cheesy interior. Keep a close eye on the buns as they broil, as they can go from perfectly toasted to overdone in seconds.

As the buns toast, gently heat your marinara sauce in a saucepan over low to medium heat. This allows the sauce to warm evenly without sticking or burning. Alternatively, you can use a microwave for convenience, ensuring the sauce is thoroughly warmed before assembling your subs.

Tips/Tricks

For an added burst of flavor, consider infusing the marinara sauce with extra herbs or spices of your choice. A pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of balsamic vinegar can add depth and complexity to the sauce, taking your meatball subs to the next level.

To ensure your meatballs maintain their shape and don’t break apart during cooking, handle the mixture gently. Overmixing can lead to dense, tough meatballs. Instead, mix just until the ingredients are combined, allowing the natural flavors to shine through.

Elevating Your Meatball Subs

Perfecting Results

Placing 3-4 meatballs on the bottom half of each toasted bun provides the perfect ratio of meat to bread. Pour a generous amount of marinara sauce over the meatballs to ensure each bite is juicy and flavorful. Cover with the top half of the bun, allowing the melted cheese to hold everything together.

If you love creative comfort food, you’ll definitely want to try these One-Pot Swedish Meatballs — a fun twist on classic flavors. Another delightful variation is the One-Pot Spaghetti Meatballs, which combines the best of pasta and meatball subs in one dish.

Troubleshooting/Variations

If your meatballs turn out too dry, consider adding a splash of milk to the mixture before shaping. This will add moisture and prevent the meatballs from drying out during cooking. For a bit of variety, try incorporating different cheeses or substituting the ground beef with turkey for a lighter option.

Experimenting with different herbs and spices can also yield delicious results. For instance, adding a hint of cumin or smoked paprika can introduce a smoky element that pairs beautifully with the marinara sauce.

Serving and Enjoying Your Creations

Serving/Presentation

Presentation plays a significant role in the dining experience. Arrange the Turkey Meatball Subs on a platter, garnished with fresh parsley or basil for a pop of color. Serve alongside a crisp salad or roasted vegetables to complete the meal. The vibrant colors and enticing aroma will surely pique your guests’ appetites.

These subs are perfect for casual gatherings or as a hearty weeknight dinner. Their versatility makes them a crowd favorite, suitable for both adults and children alike. For more inspiration, check out our One-Pot Chicken Meatballs with Greens for a lighter alternative.

Pairings/Storage

For a refreshing side, pair your meatball subs with a tangy coleslaw or a simple cucumber salad. These light, crisp sides balance the richness of the meatballs and cheese. If you’re interested in more unique sandwich recipes, explore Buffalo Chicken Meatball Subs for a spicy twist.

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply cover the subs with foil and warm them in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit until heated through. This method ensures the buns remain soft while the meatballs are hot and flavorful.

Conclusion

These Turkey Meatball Subs are a testament to the power of simple, quality ingredients and the art of home cooking. By following the steps and tips outlined, you can recreate this classic dish with ease, impressing family and friends alike. The combination of savory meatballs, tangy marinara, and melted cheese offers a satisfying experience that’s hard to beat.

Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen novice, this recipe offers a delightful challenge that results in a truly rewarding meal. Explore different variations and pairings to suit your taste, and don’t hesitate to get creative. Discover the joy of cooking from scratch and the magic that happens when loved ones gather around the table.

For more delicious ideas, consider trying a Sous Vide Turkey Crispy Skin recipe, which offers a unique preparation method that highlights the flavors of turkey in a new way.

FAQs – Turkey Meatball Subs