There’s nothing quite like the thrill of pulling a warm sub from the oven, cheese bubbling and aroma wafting through the kitchen. I remember the day I decided to combine two of my favorite proteins, beef and turkey, into one hearty creation. The result? An unforgettable Beef and Turkey Meatball Sub that’s become a staple in my house.
These delicious subs are the perfect solution for anyone tired of the same old weeknight meals or those looking to impress at a gathering without spending all day in the kitchen. With spiced meatballs nestled in soft sub rolls and topped generously with gooey mozzarella, this dish not only satisfies cravings but can be tailored to your taste. Whether you’re preparing for a cozy movie night or a casual dinner with friends, these meatball subs promise to deliver comfort in every bite. Let’s dive in and make something that truly delights the palate!
Why You’ll Love This Hearty Delicious Beef and Turkey Meatball Subs Recipe
Comforting Deliciousness: These subs offer the ultimate comfort food experience with their juicy, spiced meatballs nestled in soft rolls.
Customizable Options: Easily adapt the recipe to suit your taste – experiment with different cheeses or add veggies!
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Perfect for gatherings or family dinners, these hearty subs will have everyone coming back for seconds.
Easy Preparation: With straightforward steps, you can whip these up quickly, making weeknight dinners feel special.
Mouthwatering Aroma: Baking these subs fills your kitchen with an irresistible scent, making mealtime an exciting event.
Lightened Up: Combining beef and turkey lets you enjoy a lighter, yet just as flavorful version of meatball subs — a win-win!
Hearty Delicious Beef and Turkey Meatball Subs Ingredients
• For the Meatballs
- Ground Beef – This provides flavor and moisture; opt for lean ground beef to keep it healthier.
- Ground Turkey – Lightens the meatballs while still providing richness; dark meat turkey adds a lovely depth.
- Breadcrumbs – Help bind the meatballs together; choose plain or Italian for extra flavor.
- Parmesan Cheese – Adds a depth of flavor; fresh is ideal, but pre-grated works too if you’re in a pinch.
- Italian Seasoning – Essential for that authentic Italian taste, blending various dried herbs for richness.
- Garlic Powder – Offers robust flavor without fuss; perfect if you don’t want to chop fresh garlic.
• For the Subs
- Sub Rolls – Select soft rolls that can hold up to the meatballs and toppings without collapsing.
- Mozzarella Cheese – Shredded for optimal melting, this cheese layer adds that gooey goodness you crave.
These ingredients come together to create a hearty delicious beef and turkey meatball subs recipe that will satisfy your cravings and bring joy to your dinner table!
How to Make Hearty Delicious Beef and Turkey Meatball Subs
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Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking. This step ensures that your delicious meatballs will bake evenly and be easy to clean up afterward.
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Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, ground turkey, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Stir until everything is well incorporated to create a flavorful meat mixture that will form the heart of your subs.
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Shape Meatballs: Roll the mixture into golf ball-sized meatballs, placing them on the prepared baking sheet with some space between each one. This spacing ensures proper cooking and lets the heat circulate around each meatball for that perfect texture.
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Bake Meatballs: Bake in the oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they are firm and golden brown on the outside. The skillet aroma should start to fill your kitchen, a sign that you’re on the right track!
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Assemble Subs: While the meatballs are baking, slice your sub rolls open. Once the meatballs are ready, nestle several inside each roll and top generously with shredded mozzarella for that classic cheesy finish.
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Melt Cheese: Return the assembled subs to the oven for an additional 5 minutes or until the mozzarella is melted and bubbly. Keep an eye on them to avoid burning, as gooey cheese is a must for your ultimate sub experience!
Optional: Drizzle with marinara sauce or sprinkle some fresh basil for an added touch of flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Hearty Delicious Beef and Turkey Meatball Subs?
The mouthwatering aroma of meatballs bubbling in cheese deserves a full, delightful spread to complement your meal.
- Crispy Garlic Fries: These golden fries are seasoned to perfection. Their crunch and garlic flavor pair beautifully with the chewy subs.
- Fresh Garden Salad: A simple mix of greens and vibrant veggies, this salad offers a refreshing contrast to the hearty subs. Drizzle with Italian dressing for a zesty finish.
- Creamy Coleslaw: The crisp, tangy bites of coleslaw add a crunchy texture to your meal, balancing the heaviness of the meatball subs with lightness.
- Classic Marinara Sauce: Serve warm on the side for dipping, this classic sauce enhances the flavors of the meatballs and adds a splash of Italian flair.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies roasted until caramelized provide a sweet and savory complement to the rich meatball subs. Think bell peppers, zucchini, and carrots!
- Sparkling Lemonade: This refreshing drink pairs perfectly, cutting through the richness of the meat with its citrusy zest, making it a delightful sip during your meal.
- Cheesy Garlic Bread: This indulgent side is always a win, providing an extra layer of gooey goodness to your meal alongside those meatballs.
- Chocolate Chip Cookies: End on a sweet note; warm cookies provide a nostalgic comfort reminiscent of home-cooked goodness, perfect after your filling meatball subs!
Storage Tips for Hearty Delicious Beef and Turkey Meatball Subs
Room Temperature: Enjoy your subs fresh out of the oven for the best taste and texture; consume within 2 hours if left at room temperature.
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This keeps your meatball subs tasty and ready for a quick reheat!
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze assembled subs individually wrapped in foil or plastic wrap for up to 2 months. Thaw them overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: To reheat, place subs in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through, or microwave for 1-2 minutes. This helps maintain the moisture of your hearty delicious beef and turkey meatball subs.
Make Ahead Options
These Hearty Delicious Beef and Turkey Meatball Subs are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can prepare the meatballs up to 24 hours in advance; simply shape them as directed and refrigerate them until you’re ready to bake. To maintain quality, cover them tightly with plastic wrap or store them in an airtight container. When you’re ready to enjoy, bake the meatballs directly from the fridge. The sub assembly can also be prepped up to 3 days ahead; just store the meatballs separately from the rolls and cheese. When it’s time to serve, assemble the subs and melt the cheese for that heavenly, gooey finish!
Expert Tips for Hearty Delicious Beef and Turkey Meatball Subs
- Choose Lean Meat: Opt for lean ground beef and dark meat turkey to keep the subs flavorful yet lighter. This combination ensures moist meatballs without excess grease.
- Don’t Overmix: When combining the ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tough meatballs, so be gentle!
- Check Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure meatballs reach 165°F (74°C). This will guarantee they are fully cooked and safe to eat.
- Perfectly Melty Cheese: For that extra gooey mozzarella topping, double the amount if you want a cheesy extravaganza. Just be careful not to let it burn!
- Skip the Cold Rolls: If your sub rolls are cold, warm them briefly in the oven before assembling. This step adds to the overall texture of your hearty delicious beef and turkey meatball subs.
Hearty Delicious Beef and Turkey Meatball Subs Variations
Feel free to take these wonderful subs and make them your own with a few creative tweaks!
- Ground Chicken: Swap turkey for ground chicken for a lighter flavor profile that still satisfies.
- Different Cheeses: Try using provolone, pepper jack, or even gouda for a unique twist on the gooey topping.
- Veggie Boost: Mix in finely chopped bell peppers or spinach into the meatball mixture for added nutrition and vibrant colors.
- Herb Infusion: Add fresh herbs like parsley or basil to the meatball mix for an aromatic lift, elevating the flavor profile.
- Spicy Kick: Incorporate a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce into the meat mixture for a flavorful heat.
- Whole Wheat Rolls: Opt for whole wheat sub rolls for a healthier alternative that adds a nutty flavor and more fiber.
- Savory Marinara: Swap plain marinara sauce for a homemade version. Sauté garlic and onions before adding crushed tomatoes for depth.
- BBQ Twist: Brush the meatballs with your favorite BBQ sauce before serving for a smoky, sweet flavor that brings extra excitement.
With these variations, your hearty delicious beef and turkey meatball subs can be as unique as you are!
Hearty Delicious Beef and Turkey Meatball Subs Recipe FAQs
What type of ground beef should I use?
I recommend using lean ground beef to minimize excess grease while still providing flavor. A ratio of 85% lean to 15% fat works well to keep your meatballs juicy and delicious without being overly fatty.
How should I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To ensure the best taste and texture, reheat them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10 to 15 minutes, or quickly microwave them for 1 to 2 minutes.
Can I freeze the meatball subs?
Absolutely! You can freeze assembled subs individually wrapped in foil or plastic wrap for up to 2 months. To reheat, remove the wrap and thaw them overnight in the fridge. Then, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through.
What should I do if my meatballs are too dry?
If you find your meatballs turning out dry, it may be due to overmixing the meat or not having enough moisture. When mixing, combine just until blended, and consider adding a splash of milk or an extra egg to the mix for added moisture and binding.
Can I use gluten-free breadcrumbs?
Very! If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, feel free to substitute with gluten-free breadcrumbs. They work just as well for binding the meatballs while keeping the subs delicious and satisfying!
Are these subs pet-friendly?
While the ingredients in these meatball subs are generally safe for pets in small amounts, avoid giving them the subs with cheese or bread. Always consult your vet before sharing any human food with pets to ensure it’s appropriate for their dietary needs.
Hearty Delicious Beef and Turkey Meatball Subs You'll Love
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, ground turkey, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper.
- Roll the mixture into golf ball-sized meatballs and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake in the oven for 20-25 minutes until they are firm and golden brown.
- Slice the sub rolls open and nestle several meatballs inside each roll, topping with shredded mozzarella.
- Return the subs to the oven for an additional 5 minutes or until the mozzarella is melted and bubbly.
Notes
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