Description
These Sloppy Joe Meatball Subs are a delicious twist on the classic sandwich, combining juicy Italian-seasoned meatballs simmered in tangy Sloppy Joe sauce, nestled in toasted sub rolls and topped with melted mozzarella cheese. Perfect for an easy weeknight dinner or casual gathering, each bite offers a flavorful and comforting experience.
Ingredients
Scale
Meatballs
- 1 lb ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for cooking meatballs)
Sauce and Assembly
- 1 cup Sloppy Joe sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 4 sub rolls
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional, for topping)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Meatball Mixture: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly until well combined. Shape the mixture into 12-16 meatballs, depending on the size of your sub rolls.
- Cook the Meatballs: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs and cook for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally to brown all sides evenly. Ensure meatballs are cooked through to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Remove from skillet and set aside.
- Simmer Meatballs in Sauce: In the same skillet, pour in the Sloppy Joe sauce and bring it to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Return the cooked meatballs to the skillet, stirring to coat them in the sauce. Let them simmer for 5-7 minutes so that flavors meld.
- Preheat Oven and Toast Rolls: While the meatballs simmer, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Slice the sub rolls lengthwise and toast them lightly in the oven for 5 minutes if you prefer a crispy exterior.
- Assemble the Subs: Place 3-4 meatballs into each toasted sub roll. Spoon some extra Sloppy Joe sauce over the meatballs, then sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese on top if using.
- Melt the Cheese: Return the assembled subs to the oven for 3-5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the subs from the oven, garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired, and serve hot. Enjoy your Sloppy Joe Meatball Subs with a side of chips or a simple salad!
Notes
- For best results, use fresh breadcrumbs or panko for lighter meatballs.
- If you prefer a spicier Sloppy Joe sauce, add a dash of hot sauce or chili flakes.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; reheat thoroughly before serving.
- To make it gluten-free, substitute breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs and use gluten-free sub rolls.
- Fresh parsley enhances the visual appeal and adds a slight freshness to balance the rich flavors.
