Hearty Meatball Sub Casserole

This hearty Meatball Submarine Casserole transforms a beloved sandwich into a comforting baked dish perfect for family dinners or entertaining. It came to life during a dinner party gone awry when I needed a quick Plan B that would please a crowd without requiring hours in the kitchen.

I first created this recipe during a dinner party disaster when my original menu plan fell apart at the last minute. What started as a desperate improvisation has since become one of my most requested recipes when friends come over.

Ingredients

• Frozen fully cooked Italian meatballs: Save precious time while delivering authentic Italian flavor
• Sourdough bread: Provides the perfect chewy yet sturdy base that absorbs sauce without becoming soggy
• Olive oil: Helps create a perfectly toasted texture on the bread
• Fresh garlic: Rubbed on toasted bread adds an aromatic foundation that elevates the entire dish
• Pasta sauce with mushrooms: Brings rich umami depth better than plain marinara
• Mozzarella cheese: Creates that classic stretchy pull everyone loves in Italian dishes
• Parmesan cheese: Adds a sharp salty finish that balances the rich sauce perfectly

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Meatballs:

Heat the frozen Italian meatballs in the microwave covered for 4 to 6 minutes until they are thoroughly heated. This quick step ensures the meatballs are warm throughout and ready to absorb the flavors of the sauce.

Toast the Bread:

While the meatballs heat preheat your broiler. Place the sourdough bread slices on an ungreased baking sheet and brush one side with olive oil. Broil 4 to 6 inches from the heat source for just 1 to 2 minutes until they turn golden brown. Watch carefully as bread can burn quickly under the broiler.

Create the Garlic Bread Base:

After toasting immediately rub the hot bread with the cut side of a halved garlic clove. The heat of the bread will melt the oils in the garlic creating an aromatic flavor foundation. Then tear the bread into bite sized pieces and spread them evenly in a greased 11x7 inch baking dish.

Combine Sauce and Meatballs:

Reduce your oven temperature to 350°F. Mix the heated meatballs with pasta sauce and half of both cheeses (1/4 cup mozzarella and 1/4 cup Parmesan). This creates a rich cheese infused sauce that will coat every piece of bread and meatball.

Assemble and Bake:

Pour the saucy meatball mixture over the torn bread pieces ensuring even distribution. Sprinkle the remaining cheeses over the top to create a golden melty crust. Bake uncovered for 15 to 18 minutes until the cheese is completely melted and bubbly around the edges.

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My favorite part of this dish is how the sourdough bread soaks up the rich tomato sauce while still maintaining some texture. It reminds me of the meatball subs my dad would make on Sunday afternoons while we watched football when I was growing up but transformed into something even more comforting.

Make Ahead Options

This casserole works beautifully as a make ahead meal. You can assemble everything up to the baking step then cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to serve simply add 5 to 7 minutes to the baking time since youll be starting with cold ingredients. The flavors actually improve as they meld together making this an excellent prepare ahead option for entertaining.

Customization Ideas

While this recipe is delicious as written feel free to make it your own. Try using garlic bread instead of sourdough for extra flavor or add roasted bell peppers and onions between the bread and meatballs for more vegetables. For a spicier version use pepper jack cheese in place of mozzarella and add crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce. The versatility of this dish makes it perfect for adapting to your familys preferences.

Serving Suggestions

This casserole stands beautifully on its own but pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad dressed with Italian vinaigrette to balance the richness. For a complete feast serve with roasted vegetables like broccoli or zucchini on the side. A glass of medium bodied red wine like Chianti completes the meal perfectly making this casual dish feel special enough for company.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use fresh meatballs instead of frozen?

Yes, you can use freshly made meatballs; just cook them before assembling the casserole.

→ Can I substitute sourdough bread with another type?

Absolutely! Any sturdy bread like French baguette or ciabatta works well as a substitute.

→ What kind of pasta sauce should I use?

Choose a sauce with mushrooms for added flavor, or use your preferred marinara sauce.

→ Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble the casserole, cover, and refrigerate. Bake just before serving for best results.

→ How can I make this lighter?

Use low-fat cheeses and turkey or chicken meatballs to reduce the calorie content.