Freezer Meal Meatball Subs

There’s something incredibly comforting about a hearty meatball sub, especially when it’s packed with flavor and ready to go whenever hunger strikes. Enter the Freezer Meal Meatball Subs. These delicious sandwiches are not only easy to make but are also perfect for meal prepping. Whether you’re feeding a family, looking for a quick dinner solution, or just want something warm and satisfying, these subs will hit the spot. With the convenience of being able to pull them straight from the freezer, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without this recipe in your arsenal.

Why This Recipe is a Keeper

This recipe is a keeper for a multitude of reasons. First and foremost, it’s incredibly versatile. You can customize the flavors of the meatballs, the sauce, and even the toppings to suit your tastes or dietary preferences. Secondly, these Freezer Meal Meatball Subs are a fantastic way to save time during busy weeks. By making a big batch, you can freeze individual portions for a quick meal whenever you need it. Finally, everyone loves a great meatball sub! They’re perfect for family dinners, game day gatherings, or a cozy night in.

What Goes In

To create the perfect meatball subs, you’ll need a few key ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Ground Meat: Use ground beef, turkey, or chicken based on your preference.
• Bread Crumbs: This adds texture to the meatballs; you can use regular or gluten-free.
• Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated for the best flavor.
• Egg: Acts as a binder for the meatballs.
• Garlic: Fresh minced garlic gives a wonderful aroma and taste.
• Italian Seasoning: A blend of herbs that adds a traditional flavor.
• Marinara Sauce: Your favorite store-bought or homemade sauce for topping the meatballs.
• Sub Rolls: Choose hoagie rolls or any type of sandwich bread you love.
• Shredded Cheese: Mozzarella or provolone for that melty goodness.

Cook’s Kit

Before you get started, make sure you have the following items on hand:

• Large Mixing Bowl: For combining your meatball ingredients.
• Baking Sheet: To bake the meatballs evenly.
• Aluminum Foil: For wrapping the subs before freezing.
• Freezer Bags: For storing individual portions of meatballs.
• Sharp Knife: For slicing the rolls and portioning the meatballs.

Directions: Freezer Meal Meatball Subs

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure that your meatballs cook evenly and get a nice golden color.

Step 2: Prepare the Meatball Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground meat, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, egg, minced garlic, and Italian seasoning. Use your hands to mix everything together until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatballs tough.

Step 3: Form the Meatballs

Using your hands, shape the mixture into meatballs, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. You should get about 24 meatballs from this recipe.

Step 4: Bake the Meatballs

Place the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they are cooked through and have a nice brown exterior.

Step 5: Prepare the Subs

Once the meatballs are done, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly. While they cool, slice your sub rolls in half lengthwise.

Step 6: Assemble the Subs

Spoon some marinara sauce onto the bottom half of each roll. Then, place 3-4 meatballs on top of the sauce. Drizzle more marinara over the meatballs, and sprinkle with shredded cheese.

Step 7: Broil the Subs

Place the assembled subs on a baking sheet and broil in the oven for about 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning!

Step 8: Freeze for Later

If you’re making these as freezer meals, wrap each individual sub tightly in aluminum foil, and store them in freezer bags. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Spring–Summer–Fall–Winter Ideas

These Freezer Meal Meatball Subs can be enjoyed year-round with a few simple tweaks:

• Spring: Add fresh basil and arugula for a refreshing twist.
• Summer: Serve with a side of grilled vegetables.
• Fall: Incorporate roasted pumpkin puree into the meatball mixture for a seasonal flavor.
• Winter: Pair with a warm bowl of soup for a cozy meal.

Watch Outs & How to Fix

While making Freezer Meal Meatball Subs is straightforward, here are a few things to watch out for:

• Meatballs Falling Apart: Ensure you’re using enough breadcrumbs and egg as binders. If they still fall apart, try chilling the mixture before rolling.
• Dry Meatballs: Overcooking can lead to dry meatballs. Use a meat thermometer to ensure they reach 165°F (74°C) without overcooking.
• Cheese Not Melting: If your cheese isn’t melting properly, broil the subs for a bit longer. Just keep a close eye to prevent burning.

Storage Pro Tips

To ensure your Freezer Meal Meatball Subs stay fresh and delicious, follow these tips:

• Use Airtight Containers: When freezing, make sure to use freezer bags or airtight containers to prevent freezer burn.
• Label and Date: Always label your freezer meals with the date so you can keep track of freshness.
• Defrost Safely: To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight or use the microwave for quick defrosting.

Freezer Meal Meatball Subs Q&A

Can I use different types of meat for the meatballs?

Absolutely! You can use ground turkey, chicken, pork, or even plant-based alternatives. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly based on the type of meat you choose.

How long can I keep these meatball subs in the freezer?

These Freezer Meal Meatball Subs can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Just make sure they are properly wrapped to maintain their quality.

Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the meatballs ahead of time and freeze them before baking. Just bake them straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

What can I serve with meatball subs?

These subs are delicious on their own, but you can serve them with a side salad, chips, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

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The Last Word

When it comes to meal prepping, Freezer Meal Meatball Subs are a game changer. They make weeknight dinners a breeze and are loved by both kids and adults. With endless variations and the ability to customize to your taste, these subs will quickly become a favorite in your household. So grab your ingredients and get ready to fill your freezer with these delicious meatball subs! You’ll be so glad you did.