Prepare to embark on a culinary journey with our delectable Meatball Sub Bubble Up Bake recipe. This mouthwatering dish takes the classic flavors of a meatball sub and transforms them into a savory, bubbly casserole that’s perfect for any occasion. With fluffy biscuits, tender meatballs, zesty marinara sauce, and gooey mozzarella cheese, this bake is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Join us as we unravel the secrets to creating this irresistible comfort food that will have your taste buds singing with joy.
Ingredients:
- 1 (16 oz) can refrigerated biscuits (8 biscuits)
- 1 (14 oz) bag frozen Italian meatballs, thawed
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 2 cups mozzarella cheese, grated
Instructions:
- Preheat and Prepare:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
- Cut Biscuits:
- Cut each biscuit into quarters and set aside.
- Combine Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the thawed Italian meatballs, marinara sauce, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Mix until the meatballs are coated evenly.
- Layer Ingredients in Baking Dish:
- Spread the meatball mixture evenly in the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
- Arrange the biscuit quarters on top of the meatball mixture.
- Bake and Add Cheese:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the biscuits are golden brown and cooked through.
- Remove from the oven and sprinkle the grated mozzarella cheese over the top of the bake.
- Return to Oven:
- Return the baking dish to the oven and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve Warm:
- Once cooked, let the Meatball Sub Bubble Up Bake cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley or basil, if desired.
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapenos to the meatball mixture for an extra kick of heat.
- Extra Veggie Boost: Incorporate diced onions, bell peppers, or mushrooms into the meatball mixture for added flavor and nutrients.
- Cheese Lover’s Delight: Experiment with different types of cheese such as provolone, cheddar, or fontina for a unique flavor twist.
Keto and Low Carb Versions:
- Keto Version: Replace the refrigerated biscuits with a keto-friendly biscuit dough made from almond flour or coconut flour. Use sugar-free marinara sauce and opt for low-carb Italian meatballs. Replace the mozzarella cheese with shredded mozzarella or a blend of Italian cheeses.
- Low Carb Version: Follow the keto substitutions mentioned above and ensure all ingredients are low in carbohydrates. Adjust seasonings to taste and omit any high-carb ingredients.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
- Can I Use Homemade Meatballs Instead of Frozen? Absolutely! You can use homemade meatballs in this recipe. Simply ensure they are fully cooked before adding them to the baking dish.
- Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time? Yes, you can assemble the Meatball Sub Bubble Up Bake ahead of time and refrigerate it, covered, for up to 24 hours before baking. Bake as directed when ready to serve.
- How Do I Store Leftovers? Store any leftover bake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual servings in the microwave or oven before serving.
- Can I Freeze This Dish? While you can freeze this dish, the texture of the biscuits may change slightly upon thawing. Freeze individual portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- What Can I Serve with Meatball Sub Bubble Up Bake? This bake pairs well with a crisp green salad dressed with balsamic vinaigrette or a side of roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
In conclusion, the Meatball Sub Bubble Up Bake is a delightful twist on the classic meatball sub that’s guaranteed to satisfy your cravings and delight your palate. With its fluffy biscuits, savory meatballs, zesty marinara sauce, and gooey cheese, this dish offers a burst of flavor in every bite. Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy weeknight dinner or a comforting meal to share with family and friends, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy the irresistible flavors of Meatball Sub Bubble Up Bake.
