Smoky BBQ Meatball Subs
Delicious, tender meatballs coated in rich, smoky BBQ sauce, served in soft hoagie rolls, perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings.
Ingredients
For the Meatballs
- 1 pound ground beef Use lean ground beef for tender meatballs without excess grease.
- 1 cup breadcrumbs Fresh breadcrumbs create a better texture.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese This rich cheese enhances the flavor profile.
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley Adds a fresh touch to the meatballs.
- 1 large egg Binds the meatballs together.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced Infuses the dish with a savory aroma.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder Provides warmth and sweetness to the flavor.
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika Adds a subtle smokiness.
- 1 cup BBQ sauce Sweet, tangy, and smoky sauce is essential for flavor.
For the Subs
- 4 pieces hoagie rolls Soft and fluffy rolls for holding the fillings.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese Adds creaminess and gooey texture.
- to taste Salt and pepper Essential for enhancing flavor.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, egg, minced garlic, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix until well incorporated.
- Form the mixture into meatballs, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. Place the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Baking
- Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes, or until they reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
- While the meatballs bake, heat the BBQ sauce in a small saucepan over medium heat until warmed through.
- Once the meatballs are ready, coat them in the warmed BBQ sauce and cook in the sauce for an additional 3-5 minutes.
Assembly
- Slice the hoagie rolls lengthwise and place them on a baking dish.
- Spoon the BBQ meatballs into each roll, adding extra sauce as desired.
- Top with shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Place the assembled subs back in the oven for about 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serving
- Remove from the oven and let them cool for a minute before serving. Enjoy!
Notes
Common mistakes include overmixing the meatball mixture, skipping preheating, and using stale breadcrumbs. For healthier alternatives, consider using ground turkey or whole-wheat rolls.