Description

Sloppy Joe Meatball Subs are a hearty and comforting handheld meal that combines juicy, tender meatballs with rich, tangy sloppy joe sauce, all nestled in soft yet sturdy sub rolls. Perfect for game day or casual dinners, these sandwiches offer a delicious blend of flavors and textures that satisfy both kids and adults alike.

Ingredients

Scale

Meatballs

1 lb ground beef
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup minced onion
2 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper, to taste

Sloppy Joe Sauce

1/2 cup diced onion
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup ketchup
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 tablespoon brown sugar
1/4 cup water (or as needed)

Assembly

4 sub rolls
Cheese slices or shredded cheese (cheddar, provolone, mozzarella, or pepper jack as desired)
Optional garnishes: fresh chopped parsley, sliced pickles, red pepper flakes

Instructions

Prepare the Meatballs: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, minced onion, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix gently to combine without overmixing, then form into evenly sized meatballs about 1.5 inches in diameter. Set them aside on a baking sheet.
Brown the Meatballs: Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a touch of oil. Brown the meatballs on all sides until they develop a nice crust but remain juicy inside. Remove and set aside on a plate.
Make the Sloppy Joe Sauce: In the same skillet, sauté diced onions and garlic until fragrant and softened. Stir in ketchup, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, and a splash of water. Let the sauce simmer gently to thicken and blend the flavors.
Combine Meatballs and Sauce: Return the browned meatballs to the skillet and spoon the sauce over them. Simmer together for 10 minutes, allowing the meatballs to soak up the rich, tangy sauce.
Assemble the Subs: Slice your sub rolls and lay a generous portion of meatballs and sauce inside each. Top with your favorite cheese and, if desired, place briefly under a broiler or in a hot oven until the cheese melts and becomes gooey.

Notes

Use fresh onion and garlic for deeper flavor instead of powders.
Handle the meat mixture gently to keep meatballs tender.
Allow the sauce to simmer slowly to develop the perfect thick and tangy texture.
Choose sturdy sub rolls to prevent sogginess and hold all fillings well.
Add cheese at the end for a warm, melty topping right before serving.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Appetizers
Method: Baking, Sautéing
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 sandwich
Calories: 550
Sugar: 10g
Sodium: 800mg
Fat: 28g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Unsaturated Fat: 14g
Trans Fat: 0.5g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 30g
Cholesterol: 85mg

Keywords: Sloppy Joe, Meatball Subs, Comfort Food, Game Day Recipe, Sandwich, Meatballs, Saucy Subs