Print

Sloppy Joe Meatball Subs

Sloppy Joe Meatball Subs
Print Recipe

Sloppy Joe Meatball Subs combine the saucy, tangy flavors of classic sloppy joes with juicy, tender meatballs nestled inside soft sub rolls. This hearty, flavorful sandwich offers a satisfying twist on two family favorites, perfect for an indulgent lunch or dinner. Easy to prepare and fully customizable with spice levels, veggies, and cheese options, these subs guarantee messy, melty comfort in every bite.

Ingredients

Scale

Meatball Ingredients

  • 1 lb ground beef or turkey
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (preferably fresh)
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 large egg
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • Optional spices: chili powder, smoked paprika, red pepper flakes

Sloppy Joe Sauce

  • 1/2 cup tomato sauce
  • 1/4 cup ketchup
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped onion (optional, for sautéing)
  • 1 clove garlic, minced (optional, for sautéing)
  • Additional spices to taste (chili powder, smoked paprika, red pepper flakes)

Assembly

  • 4 soft sub rolls or hoagie buns
  • 4 slices or 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, provolone, or pepper jack)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Meatball Mixture: In a large bowl, combine ground beef or turkey with breadcrumbs, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, the egg, salt, pepper, and any optional spices of your choice. Mix gently just until all ingredients are incorporated, being careful not to overmix to avoid tough meatballs. Form the mixture into evenly sized meatballs about 1 to 2 inches in diameter.
  2. Brown the Meatballs: Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a small amount of oil. Cook the meatballs on all sides until they are nicely browned and nearly cooked through. Once browned, transfer them to a plate and set aside while you prepare the sauce.
  3. Make the Sloppy Joe Sauce: In the same skillet, optionally sauté additional chopped onions and garlic until fragrant for extra flavor. Add tomato sauce, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, and chosen spices. Stir well and simmer the sauce gently, allowing it to thicken and develop the characteristic sloppy joe flavor.
  4. Combine Meatballs and Sauce: Return the browned meatballs to the skillet and coat them thoroughly with the savory sauce. Let them simmer together for 5 to 10 minutes so the meatballs finish cooking and absorb the tangy, rich sauce.
  5. Assemble the Subs: Slice the sub rolls lengthwise without cutting all the way through, creating a pocket. Pile in the saucy meatballs generously. Top with your preferred cheese and broil or bake in the oven just until the cheese melts and the bread edges become golden and crisp.

Notes

  • Don’t overmix the meatball ingredients to keep them tender.
  • Use fresh breadcrumbs for better texture and moisture.
  • Lightly toast the sub rolls before filling to prevent sogginess.
  • Simmer the sauce low and slow for enhanced depth of flavor.
  • Add cheese last under the broiler for melty, golden finish without drying out.

Nutrition

Keywords: Sloppy Joe, meatball subs, sandwich, comfort food, easy dinner, family meal, ground beef, ground turkey, melty cheese

Find it online: https://mydishez.com/sloppy-joe-meatball-subs/