Gary's Meatball Sub Sandwiches

Steps

1. 1. Make the meatball mixture

   • In a large bowl, combine 1 lb ground beef, 1/2 cup breadcrumbs, 1/4 cup Parmesan, 1 beaten egg, 1 minced garlic clove, 2 tbsp parsley, 1 tsp salt, and 1/2 tsp pepper.
   • Mix gently with your hands until just combined; do not overwork.
   • Shape the mixture into 12 meatballs (about 1.5 inches each).

2. 2. Brown the meatballs

   • Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
   • Add the meatballs in a single layer; cook until browned on all sides, about 6 minutes total.
   • Transfer the browned meatballs to a 9x13-inch baking dish.

3. 3. Simmer the marinara sauce

   • In the same skillet, add 1 tbsp olive oil and 1 diced onion; cook until softened, about 4 minutes.
   • Add the remaining 2 minced garlic cloves; cook until fragrant, 30 seconds.
   • Stir in 1 28-oz can crushed tomatoes, 2 tbsp tomato paste, 1 tsp oregano, and 1 tsp basil. Bring to a simmer.
   • Season with salt and pepper to taste; simmer for 5 minutes.

4. 4. Bake the meatballs in sauce

   • Pour the simmered sauce over the meatballs in the baking dish.
   • Cover tightly with foil and bake at 375°F until meatballs are cooked through, about 20 minutes.

5. 5. Assemble the sandwiches

   • Preheat the broiler to high.
   • Place the split hoagie rolls on a baking sheet, cut side up, and toast under the broiler for 1–2 minutes until lightly golden.
   • Place 3 meatballs and a generous spoonful of sauce into each roll.
   • Top each sub with 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese.

6. 6. Broil until bubbly

   • Return the assembled subs to the oven and broil until the cheese is melted and bubbly, about 2–3 minutes.
   • Serve immediately, with extra sauce on the side if desired.