Meatball Sub Casserole Dish: A Delicious Twist on a Classic Favorite

Meatball Sub Casserole Dish is a delightful twist on the classic meatball sub that brings comfort food to a whole new level. As a lover of hearty meals, I find this dish to be a perfect blend of flavors and textures that can satisfy even the pickiest eaters. Originating from the Italian-American tradition, meatball subs have long been a favorite in households across the United States, and this casserole version takes all the beloved elements of the sandwich and transforms them into a warm, cheesy, and satisfying bake.

What makes the Meatball Sub Casserole Dish so irresistible is its combination of juicy meatballs, rich marinara sauce, and gooey melted cheese, all layered over a bed of crusty bread. The convenience of preparing this dish in one pan makes it a go-to for busy weeknights, while the comforting flavors evoke a sense of nostalgia that many of us cherish. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or a casual gathering with friends, this casserole is sure to impress and leave everyone asking for seconds!

Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 pound Italian sausage
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 jar (24 ounces) marinara sauce
• 1 loaf of Italian bread or hoagie rolls
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Olive oil for drizzling

Preparing the Meatballs

First things first, let’s get our meatballs ready. This is where the magic begins!

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef and Italian sausage. I like to use a mix of both for flavor and texture, but you can use just one if you prefer.
2. Add the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, minced garlic, egg, salt, and black pepper to the meat mixture. The egg acts as a binder, so don’t skip it!
3. Using your hands (I find this is the best way), mix everything together until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatballs tough.
4. Once mixed, form the mixture into meatballs, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. You should get around 20-24 meatballs, depending on the size you choose.

Cooking the Meatballs

Now that we have our meatballs ready, it’s time to cook them. You can bake or pan-fry them, but I prefer baking for ease and less mess.

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure that the meatballs cook evenly and get a nice golden color.
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup. If you have a wire rack, place it on top of the baking sheet to allow the fat to drain off.
3. Place the meatballs on the prepared baking sheet, making sure they are spaced out evenly. This helps them cook properly without steaming.
4. Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until they are cooked through and reach an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C). You can also broil them for the last 2-3 minutes for a crispy exterior.

Preparing the Marinara Sauce

While the meatballs are baking, let’s prepare the marinara sauce. You can use store-bought or homemade, but I usually go for a good quality jarred sauce for convenience.

1. In a medium saucepan, pour the marinara sauce and heat it over medium heat. Stir occasionally to prevent it from sticking to the bottom.
2. Add the dried oregano and basil to the sauce. This will enhance the flavor and make it more aromatic.
3. Once the meatballs are done baking, carefully add them to the saucepan with the marinara sauce. Gently stir to coat the meatballs in the sauce. Let them simmer for about 5-10 minutes on low heat to meld the flavors.

Preparing the Bread

Now, let’s get our bread ready for the casserole. This is where we’ll build our delicious meatball sub casserole!

1. If you’re using a loaf of Italian bread, slice it in half lengthwise. If you’re using hoagie rolls, you can leave them whole or slice them down the middle.
2. Place the bread on a baking sheet. Drizzle a little olive oil over the cut sides of the bread for added flavor and to help it crisp up in the oven.
3. Toast the bread in the oven for about 5-7 minutes, or until it’s lightly golden. This step is crucial as it prevents the bread from becoming soggy once we add the sauce and meatballs.

Assembling the Casserole

Conclusion:

In wrapping up this delightful Meatball Sub Casserole Dish, I can’t emphasize enough why this recipe is a must-try for anyone looking to impress family and friends or simply enjoy a comforting meal at home. The combination of savory meatballs, gooey cheese, and rich marinara sauce layered over a bed of crusty bread creates a symphony of flavors that is both satisfying and indulgent. It’s the perfect dish for a cozy night in or a casual gathering, and I guarantee it will become a staple in your recipe rotation. For serving suggestions, consider pairing this casserole with a fresh side salad or some crispy garlic bread to soak up all that delicious sauce. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can easily customize the recipe by adding your favorite vegetables, such as bell peppers or mushrooms, or even swapping out the meatballs for a vegetarian alternative. The possibilities are endless, and that’s what makes this dish so versatile! I wholeheartedly encourage you to give this Meatball Sub Casserole Dish a try. I’d love to hear about your experience, so don’t forget to share your thoughts and any variations you come up with! Whether you stick to the classic recipe or put your own spin on it, I’m sure you’ll find it as delightful as I do. Happy cooking! Print