Description
These Meatball Monster Sandwiches are a fun and flavorful meal perfect for Halloween or any party. Featuring juicy baked meatballs made from ground beef and Italian sausage, simmered in rich marinara sauce, and topped with melted mozzarella cheese and playful olive ‘eyeballs,’ these sandwiches are sure to delight both kids and adults alike. Served on toasted sub rolls and garnished with fresh herbs, they combine hearty American comfort food with a spooky twist.
Ingredients
Scale
Meatballs
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 lb ground Italian sausage
- 1/3 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 large egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Sauce and Toppings
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 6 sub rolls or hoagie buns
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup sliced black olives (for eyes)
- Sliced provolone or mozzarella circles (for eyes)
- Fresh parsley or basil for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Meatballs: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large bowl, combine ground beef, Italian sausage, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, milk, egg, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined, careful not to overmix to keep meatballs tender.
- Shape and Bake Meatballs: Form the mixture into 1 1/2-inch meatballs and arrange them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone mat for easy cleanup. Bake for 18 to 20 minutes until they are browned on the outside and cooked through inside.
- Simmer in Sauce: While the meatballs bake, warm marinara sauce in a saucepan over medium heat. When meatballs are done, transfer them into the saucepan and let them simmer gently for about 5 minutes to absorb flavorful sauce.
- Assemble Sandwiches: Slice the sub rolls lengthwise. Place 3 to 4 meatballs with sauce into each roll. Spoon additional marinara on top for extra juiciness and sprinkle generously with shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Broil to Melt Cheese: Place the assembled sandwiches on a baking sheet and broil in the oven for 2 to 3 minutes or until the cheese on top is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden.
- Create Monster Eyes and Serve: For the spooky monster look, top each sandwich with slices of provolone or mozzarella circles. Add sliced black olives on top as eyeballs. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil if desired. Serve the sandwiches immediately for the best taste and presentation.
Notes
- For a spicy kick, substitute hot Italian sausage or sprinkle red pepper flakes into the meat mixture.
- These sandwiches are great for Halloween parties or themed gatherings due to their fun monster appearance.
- Serve alongside crispy fries or a fresh salad to complete the meal.
- To make this recipe gluten-free, use gluten-free breadcrumbs and buns.
