Cheesy Stuffed Meatball Subs: 1 Amazing Bite

Cheesy Stuffed Meatball Subs have a way of making everything feel right in the world, don’t they? I remember the first time I tried making them, aiming for that perfect gooey center, and let me tell you, it was a game-changer. The aroma of garlic and savory meatballs baking, mingling with sweet marinara sauce, is pure comfort. This cheesy stuffed meatball sub recipe is my go-to for a reason – it’s incredibly satisfying and surprisingly simple. If you’ve ever wondered how to make cheesy stuffed meatball subs that will wow your family, you’ve come to the right place. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Stuffed Meatball Subs

• Incredible flavor explosion with juicy meatballs and gooey cheese.
• It’s an easy cheesy stuffed meatball subs recipe that comes together quickly.
• Perfectly balanced for a satisfying, comforting meal.
• Budget-friendly ingredients make it a great weeknight option.
• A guaranteed hit with kids and adults alike – truly family-friendly.
• This easy cheesy stuffed meatball subs recipe offers a delightful twist on a classic.
• You get a fantastic flavor profile without a lot of fuss.

Ingredients for Cheesy Stuffed Meatball Subs

Here’s what you’ll need to assemble these amazing stuffed meatball subs with cheese. I find that using a mix of beef and pork gives the meatballs the best flavor and texture, but you can adjust based on your preference. The breadcrumbs and Parmesan are key for binding and adding savory notes, while the fresh parsley brings a burst of freshness. Don’t skip the mozzarella cubes for that melty surprise inside!

• 1 lb ground beef – for a rich, meaty base
• 1/2 lb ground pork – adds moisture and flavor
• 1 cup Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs – helps bind the meatballs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese – for that salty, nutty depth
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped – brightens up the flavor
• 1 large egg – acts as a binder
• 3 cloves garlic, minced – essential for that savory kick
• 1 tsp onion powder – enhances the savory notes
• 1 tsp dried oregano – classic Italian herb
• 1 tsp salt – to taste
• 1/2 tsp black pepper – for a hint of spice
• 1 cup mozzarella cheese, cut into small cubes – the secret to a gooey center in your stuffed meatball sub
• 4 hoagie rolls – choose soft ones that hold up to the filling
• 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce – for smothering the meatballs
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese – for that glorious cheesy topping
• Fresh basil leaves – for a fresh garnish
• Olive oil – for drizzling

How to Make Cheesy Stuffed Meatball Subs

Get ready to create some incredible homemade cheesy meatball subs! This process is surprisingly straightforward, and the results are so worth it.

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. This initial heat is crucial for getting those meatballs perfectly browned.
2. Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, egg, minced garlic, onion powder, oregano, salt, and black pepper. I like to use my hands for this part – it helps ensure everything is evenly incorporated without overmixing.
3. Step 3: Now for the fun part! Take about 2 tablespoons of the meat mixture and gently flatten it in your palm. Place a cube of mozzarella cheese right in the center. Carefully fold the meat around the cheese, sealing it completely, and then roll it into a smooth ball. Repeat until you’ve used all the meat and cheese. You’re creating that perfect meatball sub with melted cheese inside!
4. Step 4: Arrange the stuffed meatballs on your prepared baking sheet. Drizzle a little olive oil over the top of each one. This helps them get a beautiful golden-brown color as they bake.
5. Step 5: Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the meatballs are nicely browned and cooked through. You’ll know they’re ready when their internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). The aroma filling your kitchen at this point is just heavenly!
6. Step 6: While the meatballs are baking, warm up your marinara sauce in a small saucepan over medium heat. You just want it to be nice and hot, ready to coat those delicious meatballs.
7. Step 7: Once the meatballs are cooked, carefully slice the hoagie rolls down the center, being careful not to cut all the way through. You want to create pockets for all that goodness.
8. Step 8: Place 3 to 4 of your cheesy stuffed meatballs into each hoagie roll. Spoon a generous amount of the warm marinara sauce over the meatballs.
9. Step 9: Top off each sub with the shredded mozzarella cheese. Pile it on for maximum cheesy goodness!
10. Step 10: Place the assembled subs back onto a baking sheet. Pop them into the oven for another 5-10 minutes, just until the cheese is beautifully melted and bubbly.
11. Step 11: Carefully remove the subs from the oven. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and a final drizzle of olive oil for an extra touch of flavor and presentation. Serve immediately and enjoy your amazing cheesy stuffed meatball subs!

Pro Tips for the Best Cheesy Stuffed Meatball Subs

Want to elevate your cheesy meatball sub game? I’ve picked up a few tricks over the years that make all the difference. These simple tips will help you create truly memorable stuffed meatball subs every time.

• Don’t overmix the meatball mixture; gently combine ingredients for tender meatballs.
• Ensure the mozzarella is firmly sealed inside each meatball to prevent it from leaking out during baking.
• Let the meatballs rest for a few minutes after baking before stuffing them into the rolls to prevent them from falling apart.
• Toasting the hoagie rolls lightly before adding the filling can prevent them from getting too soggy.

What’s the secret to perfect Cheesy Stuffed Meatball Subs?

The key to perfect juicy stuffed meatball subs is the combination of meats and not overworking the mixture. Also, sealing that cube of mozzarella completely inside the meatball is crucial for that surprise gooey center! For more delicious recipes, check out our full recipe collection.

Can I make Cheesy Stuffed Meatball Subs ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the stuffed meatballs up to 24 hours in advance. Store them covered in the refrigerator. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time. If you’re looking for other meatball variations, try our Romanian Chiftele.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Cheesy Stuffed Meatball Subs?

A common pitfall is meatballs falling apart; this is usually due to overmixing or not sealing the cheese well. Also, avoid underbaking; ensure the meatballs reach an internal temperature of 160°F. For more tips on cooking meat, you might find resources on meat and poultry inspections helpful.

Best Ways to Serve Cheesy Stuffed Meatball Subs

These comfort food cheesy meatball subs are a meal in themselves, but they pair wonderfully with a few simple sides to round out the experience. For a classic Italian-American meal, serve them alongside a crisp Caesar salad or a simple mixed green salad with a vinaigrette dressing. This adds a refreshing crunch that balances the richness of the subs. You could also offer a side of garlic breadsticks or a small bowl of extra marinara sauce for dipping. A cold beer or a glass of Chianti makes the perfect beverage to complement these delightful cheesy meatball hoagies. For another great chicken dish, consider our Chicken Meatballs with Lemon Orzo.

Nutrition Facts for Cheesy Stuffed Meatball Subs

Here are the estimated nutritional values for one serving of these delicious cheesy stuffed meatball subs. Keep in mind that these numbers can vary based on the specific ingredients you use, like the fat content of the meats and the brand of marinara sauce.

• Calories: 620
• Fat: 35g
• Saturated Fat: 15g
• Protein: 35g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sugar: 8g
• Sodium: 1200mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used.

How to Store and Reheat Cheesy Stuffed Meatball Subs

Once your cheesy baked meatball subs have cooled slightly, you’ll want to store any leftovers properly to enjoy them later. It’s best to let them cool down completely before packing them away. For storing in the refrigerator, place the subs in an airtight container or wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then foil. They should stay fresh for about 3 to 4 days. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them for up to 3 months. Wrap each sub individually in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil, and place them in a freezer-safe bag.

When you’re ready to reheat, you have a couple of great options. For a quick reheat, you can place a frozen or refrigerated sub in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through. For a crispier result, especially if you’re reheating refrigerated subs, place them on a baking sheet at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melty and the roll is warm. You can also reheat them in an air fryer at 325°F (160°C) for about 5-8 minutes. For a different kind of comfort food, try our Jalapeno Buffalo Chicken Casserole.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cheesy Stuffed Meatball Subs

What are cheesy stuffed meatball subs?

Cheesy stuffed meatball subs are a delightful twist on the classic meatball sub. They feature juicy, savory meatballs with a pocket of melted mozzarella cheese hidden inside. These are then nestled into soft hoagie rolls, smothered in marinara sauce, and topped with more cheese, creating a truly decadent experience.

Why are cheesy stuffed meatball subs so good?

They’re so good because of that amazing surprise factor! The hidden melted mozzarella center provides an extra layer of gooey, cheesy goodness that you don’t get with a regular meatball sub. Combined with the tender meatballs, rich marinara, and soft bread, it’s a flavor and texture combination that’s pure comfort food bliss. For more information on food safety, you can consult the FoodSafety.gov website.

Can I make the meatballs for Cheesy Stuffed Meatball Subs ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the stuffed meatballs (meat mixture formed around the cheese) up to 24 hours in advance. Store them in a single layer in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to cook, just follow the baking instructions, you might need to add a few extra minutes to ensure they’re cooked through. If you’re looking for other meatball recipes, consider our Chicken Meatballs with Lemon Orzo.

What kind of cheese is best for stuffing into the meatballs?

While mozzarella is classic for its melty, gooey texture, you can get creative! Provolone, a mild cheddar, or even a blend of Italian cheeses work wonderfully. Just ensure you cut the cheese into small cubes that can be easily enclosed by the meatball mixture.

Variations of Cheesy Stuffed Meatball Subs You Can Try

While this cheesy stuffed meatball sub recipe is fantastic as is, I love to play around with it! It’s a versatile base for so many delicious twists. Here are a few ideas to spark your creativity and make your next cheesy meatball hoagie recipe even more special.

• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the meatball mixture and use pepper jack cheese for the stuffing. A dash of hot sauce in the marinara can also add a nice warmth.
• Chicken or Turkey: For a lighter option, substitute half or all of the beef and pork with ground chicken or turkey. You might need to add a little extra moisture, like a tablespoon of milk, to keep them tender. For a different poultry option, try our Teriyaki Chicken Sheet Pan Supper.
• Garlic Bread Twist: Instead of plain hoagie rolls, use garlic bread hoagies. Brush the rolls with garlic butter before toasting them, and you’ll get an incredible cheesy garlic bread meatball subs experience.
• Meatball Sub Bake: Skip the rolls altogether! Layer the stuffed meatballs, marinara, and shredded cheese in a baking dish for a delicious meatball sub casserole cheesy dish that’s perfect for a crowd. For another casserole idea, check out our Jalapeno Buffalo Chicken Casserole.

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