Introduction
If you love classic meatball subs but want a fun, mess-free way to enjoy them, Meatball Subs on a Stick are the perfect solution! This innovative take on the traditional Italian-American sandwich brings all the savory flavors of a meatball sub into a convenient, handheld form. Perfect for parties, game days, or family dinners, these skewered delights combine juicy meatballs, melted cheese, and crispy bread for an irresistible treat.
In this article, we’ll walk you through how to make these delicious skewers, provide some helpful tips, and answer common questions to ensure your Meatball Subs on a Stick turn out perfect every time.
Ingredients
For the Meatballs:
1 lb ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
½ cup breadcrumbs
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 egg
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
¼ cup milk
1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking, if pan-frying)
For the Skewers:
1 baguette or Italian bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
½ cup marinara sauce, plus extra for dipping
Wooden skewers (soaked in water for 20 minutes to prevent burning)
Fresh basil or parsley for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Meatballs
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, minced garlic, oregano, basil, salt, black pepper, red pepper flakes (if using), and milk. Mix until well combined but do not overwork the meat.
Roll the mixture into 1-inch meatballs and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Cooking options:
Baking: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake for 15-18 minutes or until cooked through.
Pan-frying: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook the meatballs for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until browned and fully cooked.
Step 2: Assemble the Skewers
Once the meatballs have cooled slightly, alternate threading a piece of bread, a meatball, and a small pinch of shredded mozzarella onto the skewers. Repeat until each skewer is full.
Place the assembled skewers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Step 3: Bake the Skewers
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
Brush the skewers with marinara sauce and sprinkle additional mozzarella on top.
Bake for 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the bread is slightly toasted.
Remove from the oven and garnish with fresh basil or parsley.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy!
Serve the Meatball Subs on a Stick with extra marinara sauce for dipping. Enjoy the delicious, melty goodness of this handheld twist on a classic dish!
Tips for Success
1. Use Fresh Ingredients
Using fresh garlic, herbs, and high-quality meat will elevate the flavor of your meatballs.
2. Prevent Skewers from Burning
Soak wooden skewers in water for at least 20 minutes before assembling to prevent burning during baking.
3. Customize Your Meatballs
Want to mix things up? Try adding Italian sausage to the meat mixture or swapping out beef for ground turkey or chicken.
4. Make It Extra Cheesy
For an even cheesier experience, stuff the meatballs with a small cube of mozzarella before cooking.
5. Use Sturdy Bread
A firm baguette or Italian bread works best for skewering. Softer bread may fall apart.
FAQs
Q1: Can I Make These Meatball Subs on a Stick in Advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the meatballs a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, assemble the skewers, bake, and enjoy.
Q2: Can I Freeze Meatball Subs on a Stick?
Yes! Freeze the cooked meatballs separately and assemble the skewers when ready to bake. This keeps the bread from getting soggy during freezing.
Q3: What’s the Best Sauce to Serve with These?
Marinara sauce is a classic choice, but you can also try garlic butter, pesto, or even Alfredo sauce for a unique twist.
Q4: Can I Make These Without an Oven?
Yes! You can grill the skewers on medium heat for about 5-7 minutes or until the cheese melts and the bread toasts.
Q5: How Can I Make These Healthier?
Use lean ground turkey or chicken, whole wheat breadcrumbs, and a lower-fat cheese option to lighten up the recipe while keeping it flavorful.
Final Thoughts
Meatball Subs on a Stick are a fun and delicious way to enjoy a beloved classic without the mess. Whether you’re hosting a party, preparing a family meal, or looking for a creative snack, these skewers are guaranteed to be a hit. Try them out and let us know how they turned out!
Happy cooking!
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