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Italian cuisine is celebrated worldwide for its rich flavors, hearty ingredients, and comforting dishes. Among its many treasures, few can rival the indulgence of a meatball sub. This particular recipe for Italian Meatball Subs with Mozzarella and Basil Bliss promises to transport your taste buds to the bustling streets of Italy, where food is not just a meal but a celebration of life itself.

Italian Meatball Subs with Mozzarella

Experience a culinary delight with Italian Meatball Subs featuring gooey mozzarella and fresh basil. This comforting recipe combines juicy meatballs, simmered in rich marinara sauce, perfectly nestled in a sturdy Italian roll. The warmth of ground beef and pork, enhanced by aromatic garlic and basil, creates an irresistible flavor blend. Perfect for family gatherings or casual dinners, these subs promise to bring a taste of Italy to your table and will satisfy young and old alike.
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Ingredients
  

1 pound ground beef

1/2 pound ground pork

1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably Italian-style)

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1/4 cup chopped fresh basil (plus more for garnish)

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 large egg

1 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce

4 sub rolls

8 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced

Olive oil, for drizzling

1 teaspoon dried oregano

Instructions
 

Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

    Make the Meatballs: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, chopped basil, minced garlic, egg, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix. Form the mixture into meatballs, about the size of a golf ball (you should get approximately 16-18 meatballs).

      Brown the Meatballs: Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add a drizzle of olive oil. Working in batches, brown the meatballs on all sides until they are golden brown (about 5-7 minutes). They don’t need to be fully cooked through at this stage, as they’ll finish cooking in the sauce.

        Simmer in Marinara: Once browned, transfer the meatballs to a large pot. Pour the marinara sauce over the meatballs and sprinkle with dried oregano. Bring to a simmer and let cook for about 20-25 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through and tender.

          Prepare the Rolls: While the meatballs are simmering, place the sub rolls on a baking sheet and open them up slightly. Layer the inside of each roll with slices of fresh mozzarella cheese.

            Assemble the Subs: When the meatballs are ready, carefully place 3-4 meatballs into each sub roll, spooning extra marinara sauce over the top. Then, sprinkle with additional mozzarella slices.

              Melt the Cheese: Place the assembled subs in the oven (still at 400°F) for 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

                Serve: Remove from the oven and garnish with additional chopped basil. Serve warm with a side of extra marinara for dipping if desired.

                  Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 25 minutes | 60 minutes | 4 servings