# What You'll Need:
→ Meatballs
01 - 1 lb ground beef
02 - 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
03 - 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
04 - 1 large egg
05 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
06 - 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
07 - 1 tsp dried oregano
08 - 1 tsp salt
09 - 1/2 tsp black pepper
10 - 2 tbsp milk
→ Marinara Sauce
11 - 2 tbsp olive oil
12 - 1 small onion, finely chopped
13 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
14 - 28 oz canned crushed tomatoes
15 - 1 tsp sugar
16 - 1 tsp dried basil
17 - 1/2 tsp dried thyme
18 - 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
19 - Salt and black pepper to taste
→ Assembly
20 - 4 rustic sub rolls or hoagie rolls (about 8 inches each)
21 - 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
22 - 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
23 - Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)
# How-To Steps:
01 - Preheat the oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
02 - In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, egg, garlic, parsley, oregano, salt, pepper, and milk. Mix gently until evenly incorporated without overworking.
03 - Shape the mixture into 16 meatballs, approximately 1.25 to 1.5 inches in diameter, and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
04 - Bake the meatballs for 18 to 20 minutes until they are browned and cooked through.
05 - While the meatballs bake, heat olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Sauté the chopped onion for 3 to 4 minutes until softened, then add garlic and cook for 1 more minute.
06 - Add crushed tomatoes, sugar, basil, thyme, red pepper flakes if using, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook uncovered for 15 to 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
07 - Add the baked meatballs to the marinara sauce and simmer together for 5 to 10 minutes to blend flavors.
08 - Slice each sub roll lengthwise, leaving one side attached. Place on a baking tray and toast in the oven for 3 to 4 minutes until lightly crisp.
09 - Fill each toasted roll with four meatballs and a generous amount of marinara sauce. Top with shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese.
10 - Return the assembled sandwiches to the oven for 3 to 5 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
11 - Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired and serve immediately while hot.
