Meatball Sub Casserole

Unveiling Culinary Delight – Crafting the Ultimate Meatball Sub Casserole Extravaganza

Prepare to elevate your taste buds with an irresistible twist on a classic favorite—the Meatball Sub Casserole. This culinary creation seamlessly combines the essence of a beloved meatball sub with the convenience of a casserole, delivering a symphony of flavors that will leave you craving more. Join us as we embark on a gastronomic journey to master the art of the Meatball Sub Casserole—a dish that promises to captivate hearts and palates alike.

Ingredients

For the Meatballs:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1/2 pound ground pork
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• 2 large eggs
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

For the Casserole:

• 1 loaf Italian bread, cut into cubes
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Fresh basil or parsley for garnish

Instructions

Making the Meatballs:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, chopped parsley, eggs, salt, and black pepper.
3. Form the mixture into meatballs and place them on a baking sheet.
4. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the meatballs are cooked through and golden brown.

Preparing the Casserole:

1. In a large baking dish, layer half of the cubed Italian bread.
2. Spread half of the marinara sauce over the bread.
3. Arrange the baked meatballs on top of the sauce.
4. Sprinkle half of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the meatballs.
5. Repeat the layers with the remaining bread, marinara sauce, and cheeses.
6. Sprinkle dried oregano, dried basil, and red pepper flakes (if using) over the top.

Baking to Perfection:

1. Cover the casserole with aluminum foil and bake in the oven for 25-30 minutes.
2. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
3. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley before serving.

Cook Notes

Perfecting the Meatball Sub Casserole involves some key cook notes:

• Mixing Meatball Ingredients: Ensure the meatball mixture is well-combined for even flavor in each bite.
• Consistent Meatball Size: Maintain uniform meatball size for even cooking.
• Bread Cubes Layering: Arrange the bread cubes evenly for a balanced texture in the casserole.
• Even Cheese Distribution: Distribute the cheeses evenly to achieve a gooey, cheesy topping.

Variations

Sausage and Peppers Extravaganza:

Elevate your Meatball Sub Casserole with a Sausage and Peppers Extravaganza:

• Introduce cooked Italian sausage slices and sautéed bell peppers for an extra burst of flavor.

Alfredo Delight Fusion:

Transform your casserole with an Alfredo Delight Fusion:

• Replace marinara sauce with Alfredo sauce for a creamy twist.

Veggie Lover’s Dream:

Indulge in a Veggie Lover’s Dream variation:

• Add layers of sautéed spinach, mushrooms, and zucchini for a veggie-packed casserole.

Keto Version

For those following a ketogenic lifestyle, adapt the Meatball Sub Casserole to suit your dietary preferences:

• Low-Carb Breadcrumbs: Substitute traditional breadcrumbs with almond flour or crushed pork rinds.
• Cheese and Meatball Ratio: Increase the amount of cheese and meat in the casserole to boost fat content.
• Keto Marinara Sauce: Choose a low-carb marinara sauce or make your own with tomato alternatives.

Low-Carb Version

If you’re conscious of your carbohydrate intake without strictly adhering to keto, consider these adjustments:

• Reduced Bread Cubes: Use fewer bread cubes or opt for a low-carb bread alternative.
• Lightened-Up Marinara Sauce: Choose a marinara sauce with reduced sugar content.
• Portion Control: Enjoy the casserole in moderation to manage overall carb intake.

In conclusion, the Meatball Sub Casserole is a celebration of hearty flavors—a dish that brings the soul-satisfying essence of a classic meatball sub to the convenience of a casserole. As you savor each bite, you’re transported to the bustling streets of an Italian neighborhood where the aroma of marinara and melting cheese fills the air.

Whether you stick to the classic recipe, explore creative variations, or adapt it to fit specific dietary needs, the Meatball Sub Casserole is a culinary masterpiece that promises to be a crowd-pleaser. May your kitchen be filled with the delightful scent of herbs, the joy of crafting memorable meals, and the warmth of sharing this delectable casserole with loved ones. Buon appetito!