Beef

Beef And Mushroom Meatball Subs

Name: Beef And Mushroom Meatball Subs
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb (450g) ground beef; 1/2 cup (115g) finely chopped mushrooms; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1/4 cup (30g) grated Parmesan cheese; 1 egg; 1/4 cup (30g) chopped fresh parsley; 2 tbsp (30g) olive oil; 2 tbsp (30g) butter; 1 tsp (5g) salt; 1/2 tsp (2g) black pepper; 4 slices mozzarella cheese; 4 sub rolls

By Quinn Merriweather · June 19, 2026 · Beef

Prep20 min

Cook25 min

Total45 min

Serves4

I still remember the first time I made Beef And Mushroom Meatball Subs for my family. It was a weeknight, and I wanted to create something special without spending too much time in the kitchen. The combination of tender beef, earthy mushrooms, and tangy marinara sauce was an instant hit. Since then, this recipe has become a staple in our household, and I'm excited to share it with you.

What makes this recipe special is the use of high-quality ingredients and a simple yet effective cooking technique. By using a mixture of ground beef and sautéed mushrooms, we create a meatball that's both flavorful and moist. The addition of marinara sauce and melted mozzarella cheese takes the dish to the next level.

This recipe is perfect for anyone looking for a delicious and satisfying low-carb keto meal. The best part is that it's easy to make and can be prepared in under an hour. Whether you're a busy weeknight cook or a weekend entertainer, Beef And Mushroom Meatball Subs are sure to become a favorite.

In this recipe, we'll explore the technique of making meatballs from scratch, using a combination of ground beef and sautéed mushrooms. We'll also discuss the importance of using high-quality ingredients, such as fresh parsley and grated Parmesan cheese, to add depth and flavor to the dish.

So, let's get started and make some delicious Beef And Mushroom Meatball Subs! With this recipe, you'll be able to create a mouth-watering dish that's sure to impress your family and friends.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is easy to make and can be prepared in under an hour.
The combination of beef and mushrooms creates a flavorful and moist meatball.
The addition of marinara sauce and melted mozzarella cheese adds a rich and creamy element to the dish.
This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
The use of high-quality ingredients and a simple yet effective cooking technique makes this recipe a standout.
This recipe is low-carb and keto-friendly, making it a great option for those following a low-carb diet.
The meatballs can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge or freezer for later use.

Why This Recipe Works

The key to making great Beef And Mushroom Meatball Subs is to use a combination of high-quality ingredients and a simple yet effective cooking technique. By cooking the meatballs in a mixture of butter and olive oil, we create a crispy exterior and a tender interior. The addition of marinara sauce and melted mozzarella cheese adds a rich and creamy element to the dish.

Another important aspect of this recipe is the use of layering flavors. By sautéing the mushrooms and onions before adding the ground beef, we create a depth of flavor that's hard to replicate with pre-made meatballs. The addition of fresh parsley and grated Parmesan cheese adds a bright and salty note to the dish.

The cooking technique used in this recipe is also important. By cooking the meatballs in a hot skillet, we create a crispy exterior that's essential for a great meatball sub. The use of a thermometer to check the internal temperature of the meatballs ensures that they're cooked to a safe temperature without overcooking.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make Beef And Mushroom Meatball Subs, you'll need a few high-quality ingredients. Look for ground beef that's at least 80% lean, and choose fresh mushrooms that are free of bruises and blemishes. You'll also need some basic pantry staples, such as olive oil, salt, and pepper.

When shopping for ingredients, be sure to read the labels and choose options that are low in added sugars and preservatives. This will help you create a dish that's not only delicious but also healthy and nutritious.

1 lb (450g) ground beefLook for ground beef that's at least 80% lean to ensure that your meatballs are tender and juicy.
1/2 cup (115g) finely chopped mushroomsChoose fresh mushrooms that are free of bruises and blemishes, and chop them finely to ensure that they cook evenly.
2 cloves garlic, mincedUse fresh garlic for the best flavor, and mince it finely to ensure that it distributes evenly throughout the meatballs.
1/4 cup (30g) grated Parmesan cheeseChoose a high-quality Parmesan cheese that's aged for at least 24 months, and grate it finely to ensure that it melts evenly.
1 eggUse a large egg to help bind the meatballs together, and make sure it's at room temperature to ensure that it mixes evenly with the other ingredients.
1/4 cup (30g) chopped fresh parsleyChoose fresh parsley that's free of bruises and blemishes, and chop it finely to ensure that it distributes evenly throughout the meatballs.
2 tbsp (30g) olive oilUse a high-quality olive oil that's rich in flavor, and use it to cook the meatballs and create a crispy exterior.
2 tbsp (30g) butterUse a high-quality butter that's rich in flavor, and use it to cook the meatballs and create a crispy exterior.
1 tsp (5g) saltUse a high-quality salt that's free of additives, and use it to season the meatballs and bring out their natural flavor.
1/2 tsp (2g) black pepperUse a high-quality black pepper that's freshly ground, and use it to season the meatballs and add depth to their flavor.
4 slices mozzarella cheeseChoose a high-quality mozzarella cheese that's made from whole milk, and slice it thinly to ensure that it melts evenly.
4 sub rollsChoose a high-quality sub roll that's made from whole wheat or a low-carb alternative, and toast it lightly to ensure that it's crispy and golden brown.

Ingredients for Beef And Mushroom Meatball Subs

Equipment You’ll Need

Large heavy skillet or wokSharp chef's knifeCutting boardMeatball scoop or small ice cream scoopInstant-read thermometerOvenBaking sheet

How to Make Beef And Mushroom Meatball Subs

1
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2
In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chopped mushrooms and cook until they're tender and lightly browned, about 5 minutes.
3
Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
4
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, cooked mushroom mixture, grated Parmesan cheese, egg, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together with your hands or a wooden spoon until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
5
Use a meatball scoop or small ice cream scoop to form the mixture into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches (3.8 cm) in diameter. You should end up with around 20-25 meatballs.
6
Place the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving a little space between each meatball to allow for even cooking.
7
Drizzle the meatballs with the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil and gently roll them around to coat evenly.
8
Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, until cooked through and lightly browned on the outside. Use an instant-read thermometer to check the internal temperature, which should be at least 160°F (71°C).
9
While the meatballs are baking, toast the sub rolls by placing them on the oven rack for 2-3 minutes, until lightly browned.
10
Once the meatballs are done, remove them from the oven and place them on the toasted sub rolls. Top each meatball with a slice of mozzarella cheese and return them to the oven for an additional 2-3 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
11
Remove the meatball subs from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving. You can serve them as is, or add your favorite marinara sauce and other toppings.
12
To make the marinara sauce, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Add 2 cloves of minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
13
Add 1 can of crushed tomatoes, 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt to the saucepan. Stir everything together and bring the sauce to a simmer.
14
Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it has thickened slightly and reduced by about half.

Expert Tips

Make sure to handle the meatballs gently when forming them, as they can be delicate.
Don't overmix the meatball mixture, as this can make the meatballs dense and tough.
Use a thermometer to ensure that the meatballs are cooked to a safe internal temperature.
Let the meatballs rest for a few minutes before serving, as this will help them retain their juices.
Experiment with different types of cheese and toppings to find your favorite combination.
Consider making a double batch of meatballs and freezing them for later use.
To add some extra flavor to the meatballs, try adding some chopped onions or bell peppers to the mixture.
If you're having trouble getting the meatballs to stick together, try adding a little more egg or breadcrumbs to the mixture.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overmixing the meatball mixture, which can make the meatballs dense and tough.
Not cooking the meatballs to a safe internal temperature, which can lead to foodborne illness.
Not letting the meatballs rest before serving, which can cause them to dry out.
Using low-quality ingredients, which can affect the flavor and texture of the meatballs.
Not toasting the sub rolls, which can make them soggy and unappetizing.
Not using enough cheese, which can make the meatball subs dry and flavorless.

Variations and Substitutions

Try using different types of meat, such as pork or turkey, to create a unique flavor profile.
Add some diced onions or bell peppers to the meatball mixture for extra flavor and texture.
Use different types of cheese, such as cheddar or provolone, to create a unique flavor profile.
Add some spice to the meatball mixture, such as red pepper flakes or diced jalapenos, for an extra kick.
Try using a different type of bread, such as a hoagie roll or a ciabatta, to create a unique texture and flavor.
Add some fresh herbs, such as parsley or basil, to the meatball mixture for extra flavor and freshness.
Consider making a vegetarian version of the dish by using portobello mushrooms or eggplant instead of meat.

What to Serve With Beef And Mushroom Meatball Subs

Beef And Mushroom Meatball Subs are a delicious and satisfying meal that can be served on their own or with a variety of sides. Some ideas for sides include a green salad, roasted vegetables, or a side of garlic knots.

You can also customize the dish to your taste by adding your favorite toppings, such as marinara sauce, melted mozzarella cheese, or sliced onions and bell peppers.

Serve with a side of garlic knots or a green saladAdd marinara sauce and melted mozzarella cheese for extra flavorTop with sliced onions and bell peppers for added crunchServe with a side of roasted vegetables, such as broccoli or zucchiniAdd some fresh herbs, such as parsley or basil, for extra flavor and freshnessServe with a side of sautéed spinach or kale for a nutritious and delicious meal

Make-Ahead, Storage, Freezing and Reheating

Beef And Mushroom Meatball Subs can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months. To store, simply place the meatballs in an airtight container and refrigerate or freeze.

To reheat, simply place the meatballs in the oven at 350°F (180°C) for 10-15 minutes, until heated through. You can also reheat them in the microwave, but be careful not to overcook.

It's also a good idea to make a double batch of meatballs and freeze them for later use. Simply thaw the frozen meatballs overnight in the fridge and reheat as needed.

When storing the meatballs, it's a good idea to label the container with the date and the contents, so you can easily keep track of how long they've been stored.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of meat is best to use for meatballs?

The best type of meat to use for meatballs is a combination of ground beef, pork, and sometimes veal. However, you can also use other types of meat, such as turkey or chicken, to create a unique flavor profile.

How do I know when the meatballs are cooked through?

The best way to know when the meatballs are cooked through is to use an instant-read thermometer. The internal temperature of the meatballs should be at least 160°F (71°C). You can also check for doneness by cutting into one of the meatballs; if it's cooked through, it should be lightly browned on the outside and juicy on the inside.

Can I make the meatballs ahead of time and freeze them?

Yes, you can make the meatballs ahead of time and freeze them. Simply place the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until solid, then transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag for storage.

What type of cheese is best to use for the meatball subs?

The best type of cheese to use for the meatball subs is a combination of mozzarella and Parmesan. The mozzarella provides a creamy and melted texture, while the Parmesan adds a salty and nutty flavor.

Can I customize the dish to my taste by adding different toppings?

Yes, you can customize the dish to your taste by adding different toppings, such as marinara sauce, melted mozzarella cheese, or sliced onions and bell peppers. Feel free to get creative and experiment with different combinations to find your favorite!

How do I store the meatballs in the fridge or freezer?

To store the meatballs in the fridge, simply place them in an airtight container and refrigerate at 40°F (4°C) or below. To store in the freezer, place the meatballs in an airtight container or freezer bag and freeze at 0°F (-18°C) or below.

Can I reheat the meatballs in the microwave?

Yes, you can reheat the meatballs in the microwave, but be careful not to overcook. Simply place the meatballs in the microwave and heat on high for 20-30 seconds, or until heated through.

How long do the meatballs last in the fridge or freezer?

The meatballs can last for up to 3 days in the fridge or up to 2 months in the freezer. Make sure to label the container with the date and the contents, so you can easily keep track of how long they've been stored.

The Full Recipe

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