Description
These Sloppy Joe Meatball Subs are a delightful twist on the classic sloppy joe, featuring juicy meatballs simmered in rich Sloppy Joe sauce, nestled in toasted sub rolls, and topped with melted mozzarella cheese. Perfect for a comforting and hearty meal, they combine savory flavors with a satisfying texture that the whole family will love.
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 Toppings
- 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 the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated. 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 carefully, cooking them for 8-10 minutes. Turn occasionally to brown on all sides and cook through, ensuring the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Remove the meatballs from the 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, stir to coat with sauce, and allow them to simmer for 5-7 minutes so they absorb the flavors.
- Toast the sub rolls: While the meatballs simmer, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Slice the sub rolls and place them in the oven for about 5 minutes to toast lightly, creating a crispy exterior.
- Assemble the subs: Place 3-4 meatballs into each toasted sub roll. Spoon additional Sloppy Joe sauce over the meatballs, then sprinkle with shredded mozzarella cheese if using.
- Melt the cheese: Return the assembled subs to the oven for another 3-5 minutes or until the mozzarella cheese is melted and bubbling.
- Serve: Remove the subs from the oven, garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired, and serve hot alongside chips or a simple salad for a well-rounded meal.
Notes
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the meatballs are cooked to a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- For a richer flavor, you can use a mixture of beef and pork in the meatballs.
- If you prefer spicy sloppy joe sauce, add a dash of hot sauce or chili flakes to the sauce before simmering.
- To make the dish ahead, prepare meatballs and sauce separately, then assemble and bake just before serving.
- Omitting mozzarella cheese will make the subs dairy-free; check sloppy joe sauce ingredients for allergens if needed.
