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Oven Baked Meatball Sandwiches

Oven Baked Meatball Sandwiches
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Oven Baked Meatball Sandwiches combine tender, juicy meatballs simmered in a rich homemade tomato sauce, nestled inside crusty sandwich rolls and topped with melty mozzarella cheese. This easy-to-make, flavorful, and comforting Italian-American classic is perfect for cozy dinners, casual gatherings, or meal prep. Customizable with different cheeses, spices, or bread, this recipe delivers a hearty and satisfying bite every time.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Meatballs

  • 1 lb ground beef or turkey (fresh, lean)
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (gluten-free if needed)
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 cloves fresh garlic, finely minced
  • 1/4 cup chopped onion
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Sauce

  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup onion, finely chopped
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) crushed tomatoes
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Pinch of sugar (optional, to balance acidity)

For Assembly

  • 4 sandwich rolls or hoagie buns (gluten-free if needed)
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • Fresh basil or parsley (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Meatballs: In a large bowl, combine ground meat, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, minced garlic, chopped onion, egg, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix gently with your hands until just combined to keep the meatballs tender. Roll into evenly sized balls about 1.5 inches in diameter and set aside.
  2. Bake the Meatballs: Place the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 20 minutes, flipping once halfway through, until cooked through and golden on the outside.
  3. Make the Sauce: While the meatballs bake, sauté minced garlic and onion in olive oil over medium heat until fragrant and soft. Add crushed tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and a pinch of sugar. Simmer on low heat for 15 minutes to develop rich flavors.
  4. Simmer Meatballs in Sauce: Carefully transfer baked meatballs into the simmering sauce and cook together for 5–10 minutes to meld flavors and allow meatballs to soak in the tomato base.
  5. Assemble and Bake the Sandwiches: Slice sandwich rolls horizontally, keeping them attached on one side to create a pocket. Spoon a generous amount of meatballs and sauce into each roll, top with shredded mozzarella, and place the sandwiches on a baking sheet. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 7–10 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Notes

  • Use fresh ingredients like herbs and freshly grated cheese for better flavor.
  • Mix meatball ingredients just until combined to keep meatballs tender.
  • Baking meatballs instead of frying reduces grease and keeps the sandwich lighter.
  • Allow baked meatballs to rest slightly before adding to sauce to prevent breakage.
  • Lightly toast sandwich rolls before assembling to add crunch and prevent sogginess.

Nutrition

Keywords: meatball sandwich, oven baked meatballs, Italian sandwich, homemade tomato sauce, comfort food, easy dinner, meal prep

Find it online: https://ninagourmet.com/oven-baked-meatball-sandwiches/