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To truly appreciate the Italian Holiday Meatball Sub, it is essential to understand the cultural roots of meatballs in Italian cuisine. Historically, meatballs, or “polpette” as they are known in Italy, have been a staple in the Italian diet for centuries. These savory morsels were often made from leftover meats, breadcrumbs, and various herbs, showcasing the Italian tradition of minimizing food waste.

Holiday Italian Meatball Sub with Festive Flavors

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Ingredients
  

1 pound ground beef

1/2 pound ground pork

1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably Italian seasoned)

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

1 large egg

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1 teaspoon dried basil

Salt and pepper to taste

1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce

4 fresh hoagie rolls

1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded

1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Olive oil for drizzling

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

    Make the Meatballs: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, egg, minced garlic, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Mix until all ingredients are well incorporated.

      Shape Meatballs: Using your hands, form the mixture into golf ball-sized meatballs (about 1.5 inches in diameter).

        Bake the Meatballs: Arrange the meatballs on a lined baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until browned and cooked through.

          Prepare Sauce: While the meatballs are baking, heat the marinara sauce in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir in the red pepper flakes if using for an extra kick.

            Combine Meatballs and Sauce: When the meatballs are done, add them to the saucepan with the marinara sauce. Let them simmer together for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

              Assemble the Subs: Slice the hoagie rolls lengthwise, leaving one side intact to create a pocket. Place 3-4 meatballs in each roll and generously spoon the marinara sauce over them.

                Add Cheese: Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese liberally over the meatballs in each sub.

                  Bake the Subs: Place the assembled subs on a baking sheet and drizzle with olive oil. Bake in the oven for another 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

                    Serve and Garnish: Remove the subs from the oven and let them cool slightly. Garnish with fresh basil leaves, and optionally, a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese. Serve hot and enjoy your Holiday Italian Meatball Sub!

                      Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour | Servings: 4