Meatball Sub on a Stick

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Introduction

Meatball Sub on a Stick is a playful, portable twist on the classic meatball sub sandwich that’s guaranteed to be a hit at any gathering. Imagine juicy, flavorful meatballs skewered alongside gooey, melted cheese and served with a side of savory marinara sauce for dipping—this fun, bite-sized version lets you enjoy all the goodness of a meatball sub in a way that’s both easy and satisfying. Perfect for parties, picnics, or a casual family dinner, these skewers take a beloved comfort food and transform it into a snackable delight.

The first time I made these, I was amazed at how simple they were to put together. Skewering the meatballs and cheese, then heating them until the cheese was perfectly melted, felt like a mini cooking adventure. The aroma of seasoned meatballs and marinara sauce wafting through the air was irresistible, and watching everyone dive into these handheld treats was the best part.

What I love most about Meatball Sub on a Stick is its versatility. You can switch up the meatballs with different proteins like turkey or chicken, add extra toppings like sautéed peppers or onions, or even drizzle a bit of pesto or ranch dressing for a unique twist. Whether it’s a fun appetizer for a party or a new family favorite, these skewers make enjoying a meatball sub even more delicious and entertaining.

Perfect for:

  • Game day snacks
  • Party appetizers
  • Picnics and BBQs
  • Casual family dinners
  • Finger foods for kids and adults

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here’s why Meatball Sub on a Stick will become your go-to snack or appetizer:

  • Fun and Portable: Skewering the meatballs and cheese makes this a handheld, mess-free version of a classic sub.
  • Perfect Flavor Combo: Savory meatballs, melted cheese, and marinara sauce come together for the ultimate sub experience.
  • Customizable: You can add your favorite toppings or sauce variations to suit your taste.
  • Quick and Easy: These meatball subs on a stick come together in less than 30 minutes, making them a perfect last-minute snack or appetizer.
  • Kid-Friendly: Fun to eat and easy for kids to handle, this is a great way to get them excited about dinner.

Preparation and Cooking Time

  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Preparation Time: 15 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 15 minutes
  • Servings: 4 servings
  • Calories per serving: Approximately 400-450 calories
  • Key Nutrients: Protein: 25g, Carbs: 30g, Fat: 22g

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Meatball Sub on a Stick:

  • 1 lb ground beef (or turkey, if preferred)
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 egg
  • 2 teaspoons garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1 cup marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
  • 8 oz mozzarella cheese, cut into cubes
  • 8-10 wooden skewers
  • Olive oil, for brushing

Ingredient Highlights

  • Ground Beef (or Turkey): Ground beef provides a rich, juicy base for the meatballs, though ground turkey can be used for a leaner option.
  • Breadcrumbs and Egg: Help bind the meatballs together and give them a tender texture.
  • Parmesan Cheese: Adds extra flavor and richness to the meatballs.
  • Mozzarella Cheese: Melts beautifully and provides the gooey, cheesy texture you expect from a meatball sub.
  • Marinara Sauce: The savory sauce brings the meatball sub together and adds depth of flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Meatballs:

  1. Mix the Meatball Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix until fully combined.
  2. Form the Meatballs: Roll the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter, so they’re easy to thread onto the skewers. You should have about 16-20 meatballs.

Cook the Meatballs:

  1. Preheat the Oven or Pan: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) or heat a skillet over medium heat with a little olive oil.
  2. Bake or Fry the Meatballs:
    • For Baking: Place the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until cooked through.
    • For Frying: Heat olive oil in the skillet and cook the meatballs for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until browned and fully cooked.

Assemble the Skewers:

  1. Skewer the Meatballs: Once the meatballs are cooked, thread them onto the wooden skewers, alternating with cubes of mozzarella cheese. You can use 2-3 meatballs per skewer, depending on the size of your skewers.
  2. Brush with Olive Oil: Lightly brush the skewered meatballs and cheese with olive oil to help with browning.

Cook the Skewers:

  1. Grill or Broil the Skewers:
    • For Grilling: Preheat the grill to medium heat and grill the skewers for 2-3 minutes per side, or until the cheese begins to melt and the meatballs are golden brown.
    • For Broiling: Place the skewers under the broiler for 2-3 minutes, watching closely, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Serve and Enjoy:

  1. Serve with Sauce: Warm the marinara sauce in a saucepan or microwave and serve it alongside the meatball subs on a stick for dipping.

How to Serve

  • Classic Style: Serve the meatball subs on a stick with marinara sauce for dipping.
  • With Toppings: Top the skewers with a sprinkle of fresh basil, chopped parsley, or a little extra Parmesan cheese.
  • As a Snack: These are perfect for casual snacking or as a party appetizer.
  • As a Meal: Serve with a side of crispy fries or a fresh salad for a complete dinner.
  • With Extra Sauces: Offer a variety of sauces like ranch, blue cheese, or garlic butter for dipping.

Additional Tips

  • Don’t Overcrowd the Skewers: Be sure not to pack too many meatballs on each skewer, as they need space for the cheese to melt and cook evenly.
  • Use Fresh Mozzarella: If you can, opt for fresh mozzarella for the best melt and texture.
  • Customize the Meatballs: Add chopped fresh herbs or spices to the meatball mixture to change up the flavor profile.
  • Make Mini Meatballs: For an appetizer-sized version, make smaller meatballs for bite-sized skewers.
  • Baking Option: If you prefer not to grill or broil, bake the skewers in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes.

Recipe Variations

  1. Spicy Meatball Subs: Add red pepper flakes to the meatball mixture for a kick of heat.
  2. BBQ Meatball Subs: Use barbecue sauce instead of marinara for a smoky twist.
  3. Cheddar Meatball Subs: Substitute mozzarella with sharp cheddar cheese for a tangy, rich flavor.
  4. Veggie Meatballs: Use plant-based meat or a blend of beans and vegetables for a vegetarian option.
  5. Bacon-Wrapped Meatballs: Wrap the meatballs in bacon before baking for added flavor and crispiness.
  6. Italian Meatball Subs: Add Italian seasoning to the meatballs for an extra Italian flair.
  7. Buffalo Meatball Subs: Toss the meatballs in buffalo sauce and serve with blue cheese dressing for a spicy version.
  8. Cheesy Meatball Subs: Mix melted cheese directly into the meatball mixture for an ultra-cheesy bite.
  9. Sweet and Sour Meatball Subs: Use sweet and sour sauce instead of marinara for a tangy twist.
  10. Mushroom Meatball Subs: Add finely chopped mushrooms to the meatball mixture for added flavor and texture.

Freezing and Storage

  • Freezing: To freeze, place the cooked meatballs on a baking sheet and freeze them until firm. Transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave when ready to serve.
  • Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave, and serve with fresh sauce.

Special Equipment

  • Wooden Skewers
  • Skillet or Baking Sheet
  • Meat Thermometer
  • Saucepan (for warming marinara sauce)
  • Tongs or Basting Brush

FAQ

  1. Can I use a different type of cheese? Yes, you can substitute mozzarella with provolone, cheddar, or any cheese that melts well.
  2. Can I make the meatballs ahead of time? Yes, you can prep the meatballs and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before cooking.
  3. Can I use store-bought meatballs? Yes, pre-made meatballs work in this recipe, but homemade will give you the best flavor.
  4. How do I know when the meatballs are done? The internal temperature of the meatballs should reach 165°F (74°C).
  5. Can I make this recipe in the air fryer? Yes, air fry the skewers at 375°F (190°C) for 8-10 minutes, or until the cheese melts and the meatballs are cooked through.

Conclusion

Meatball Sub on a Stick offers a fun and tasty twist on a classic sandwich. These skewers combine juicy, perfectly cooked meatballs, gooey cheese, and flavorful marinara sauce for a handheld, crowd-pleasing treat. Whether you’re serving them at game day, parties, or a casual family dinner, this easy and customizable recipe is sure to bring everyone to the table for a deliciously fun meal.

Simple to prepare and loaded with flavor, these skewers are perfect for dipping in extra marinara sauce or topped with a sprinkle of parmesan for that extra touch. You can customize them by using different types of cheese or adding a few veggies for added flavor and crunch.

I can’t wait to see how you serve up your Meatball Sub on a Stick! Snap a photo and tag me on Instagram—I’d love to see your unique twist. Don’t forget to share your creative ideas in the comments. Happy cooking!

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