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**Smoked Meatball Subs: A Flavor-Packed Twist on a Classic Sandwich**
There’s nothing quite like a hearty meatball sub, but when you take it to the next level by smoking the meatballs, you get a sandwich that’s truly unforgettable. Smoked Meatball Subs combine the savory goodness of juicy meatballs with a touch of smoky flavor, all smothered in rich marinara sauce and topped with melted cheese. It’s a crowd-pleasing meal that’s perfect for game day, family dinners, or just when you’re craving something comforting and indulgent.
### Why You’ll Love Smoked Meatball Subs
1. **Smoky Flavor**: Smoking the meatballs adds a deep, rich flavor that you just can’t achieve with traditional cooking methods.
2. **Comfort Food Classic**: This recipe takes a beloved comfort food to a whole new level of deliciousness.
3. **Versatile**: Serve the meatballs over pasta, as sliders, or in subs – they’re delicious no matter how you enjoy them.
4. **Perfect for Sharing**: Make these for a party or a casual gathering, and watch them disappear in no time.
### Ingredients You’ll Need
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 lb ground pork
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup onion, finely chopped
– 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (or 1 tablespoon dried parsley)
– 1 large egg, beaten
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
– 4-6 sandwich rolls (hoagie or sub rolls)
– 2 cups marinara sauce
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– Olive oil, for brushing
– Optional: Red pepper flakes for a bit of heat
### How to Make Smoked Meatball Subs
#### Step 1: Prepare the Meatballs
– In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic, onion, parsley, beaten egg, salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and Italian seasoning.
– Mix the ingredients together gently with your hands until everything is well incorporated, but don’t overmix, as this can make the meatballs tough.
– Form the mixture into 1.5-inch meatballs, placing them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
#### Step 2: Smoke the Meatballs
– Preheat your smoker to 225°F (107°C).
– Place the meatballs on the smoker grate, and smoke for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until they reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
– For extra flavor, you can add wood chips like hickory, applewood, or mesquite to the smoker.
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#### Step 3: Assemble the Subs
– While the meatballs are smoking, warm the marinara sauce in a saucepan over low heat.
– When the meatballs are done, remove them from the smoker and gently toss them in the marinara sauce to coat.
– Slice the sandwich rolls lengthwise, being careful not to cut all the way through.
– Brush the inside of each roll with a little olive oil and toast lightly on a grill or in the oven.
#### Step 4: Add the Finishing Touches
– Place 3-4 meatballs in each toasted roll, spooning extra marinara sauce over the top.
– Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese generously over the meatballs.
– For an extra smoky touch, return the subs to the smoker or place them under the broiler in the oven for a few minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
#### Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
– Serve the smoked meatball subs hot, garnished with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for some added heat.
### Tips for the Best Smoked Meatball Subs
– **Use a Mix of Beef and Pork**: Combining beef and pork gives the meatballs a juicy texture and rich flavor.
– **Don’t Overmix the Meat**: Gently combine the ingredients to keep the meatballs tender.
– **Choose the Right Wood for Smoking**: Different woods impart different flavors. Applewood adds a mild sweetness, while hickory provides a stronger smoky taste.
– **Toast the Rolls**: Lightly toasting the sandwich rolls adds texture and prevents them from becoming soggy.
### Creative Variations
– **Cheesy Stuffed Meatballs**: Insert a small cube of mozzarella into the center of each meatball before smoking for an extra cheesy surprise.
– **Spicy Version**: Add diced jalapeños to the meatball mixture or mix crushed red pepper flakes into the marinara sauce.
– **BBQ Meatball Subs**: Use your favorite BBQ sauce in place of marinara and add sliced pickles for a smoky, tangy twist.
### What to Serve with Smoked Meatball Subs
– **Side Salad**: A crisp garden salad with Italian dressing complements the rich flavors of the subs.
– **Potato Wedges**: Baked or fried, potato wedges make a perfect side.
– **Coleslaw**: The creamy, tangy crunch of coleslaw pairs wonderfully with the hearty subs.
### Conclusion
**Smoked Meatball Subs** are a delicious upgrade to the classic meatball sandwich, adding smoky depth to every bite. This recipe is not only comforting and flavorful but also surprisingly easy to prepare, especially if you’re already familiar with using a smoker. Whether you make these subs for a casual weeknight dinner or a special occasion, they’re sure to become a favorite. Try them out, and enjoy the mouthwatering combination of smoked meatballs, marinara, and gooey melted cheese!