Meatball Sammies
My 1 smart point meatballs and this 0 point marinara sauce come together to make one of the most epic meatball sammies!
My 1 smart point meatballs and this 0 point marinara sauce come together to make one of the most epic meatball sammies!
- 1 egg
- 1 tablespoon of dried basil
- 1/2 cup of water
- 24 oz of crushed tomatoes
- 3 tablespoons of tomato paste amore tomato paste in a tube
- 2 tsp of garlic
- 2 tsp of olive oil
- 1/2 of onion finely chopped
- salt and pepper (optional i like my sauce low sodium but feel free to add it)
- 1 lb 93/7 lean ground beef
- 1/4 cup of bread crumbs
- 1/2 cup of diced onion (dice really fine)
- 2 tsp of fresh garlic (i use the garlic in a jar)
- 1 tablespoon of dried parsley flakes
- 1 oz of grated parmesan cheese
- 1/4 tsp each of salt and pepper
- Carbohydrate 0 g
- Cholesterol 0 mg
- Fat 1.12499999676653 g
- Fiber 0 g
- Protein 0 g
- Saturated Fat 0.155339999553523 g
- Serving Size 1 1 recipe (1254g)
- Sodium 4.76249999993533 mg
- Sugar 0 g
- Trans Fat 0.0304649999124377 g
- Calories 10 calories
Step-by-step
- Preheat oven to 400 degrees.
- Add 3 tsp of olive oil to a pan and cook the onions until soft. Stir in garlic and tomato paste. The tomato paste and onions will look thick so add in 1/2 cup of water. Let the water and onions simmer for a bit and add in the basil and then the crushed tomatoes. Let it simmer for 15 to 20 minutes. Adding salt and pepper is optional. I do not add any salt because I have to watch my sodium intake.
- Spray a large cookie sheet with cooking spray.
- In another saucepan, cook the onions until they are soft and tender. Let them cool for a bit before you add them to the meatball mixture.
- Mix together ground beef, onion, bread crumbs, garlic, egg, cheese, salt, pepper and parsley in a large mixing bowl.
- Form into 1-inch balls and place on prepared cookie sheet.
- Bake in preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until meatballs are browned and cooked through.
- Lay 3 Swiss cheese on the bottom bun along with 3 meatballs and 2 tablespoons of marinara sauce. You can toast the sandwich however you like. I did mine in my air fryer for a couple of minutes at 350.
Meatball Sammies: A Busy Mom's Recipe for Weeknight Success
As a working mom, time is my most precious commodity. Dinner needs to be quick, easy, and (most importantly) delicious. That's where these Meatball Sammies come in. They're a lifesaver on those crazy weeknights when I'm juggling work deadlines, school pick-ups, and bedtime routines. Forget complicated recipes and hours spent in the kitchen; these sammies are ready in under an hour, and the flavor? Absolutely phenomenal.
The secret? Smart substitutions and simple techniques. I've tweaked the recipe to keep things low-sodium (a must for our family), and I use readily available ingredients, eliminating any need for last-minute grocery store dashes. This recipe is adaptable, too. Feel free to swap out the cheese, experiment with different herbs, or add a touch of your favorite hot sauce for a little kick. The possibilities are endless!
The meatballs themselves are juicy and flavorful, boasting a perfect blend of lean ground beef and aromatic spices. The marinara sauce is rich and vibrant, a testament to the simple beauty of slow-simmering tomatoes and garlic. And let's not forget the satisfying crunch of the toasted bun, the melty Swiss cheese adding a creamy contrast to the savory meatballs. The whole experience is a symphony of textures and tastes, perfectly balanced and intensely satisfying. My kids gobble these up faster than I can make them!
Beyond the Weeknight Wonders: These Meatball Sammies aren't just for busy weeknights. They're also perfect for casual gatherings, potlucks, or even a simple lunch. They travel well, making them an ideal option for packed lunches or picnics. The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility – it can be adapted to suit any occasion. Whether you're feeding your family, impressing friends, or simply treating yourself to a comforting meal, these Meatball Sammies won't disappoint.
This recipe is about more than just a meal; it's a testament to the power of simple, delicious food that brings people together. It's about creating happy memories around the dinner table, without sacrificing precious time. So, grab your ingredients, and let's get cooking!
Tips and Tricks for Meatball Perfection:
- Don't Overwork the Meat: Gently mix the meatball ingredients. Overmixing can result in tough meatballs.
- Properly Browned Meatballs: Ensure your meatballs are fully browned and cooked through before serving. This guarantees a juicy, flavorful interior.
- Make it Ahead: The meatballs and sauce can be made ahead of time, which is a huge time-saver on busy days. Simply store them in the refrigerator and assemble the sammies when ready.
- Get Creative with Toppings: Feel free to add your favorite toppings, such as caramelized onions, roasted red peppers, or even a drizzle of balsamic glaze.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve your Meatball Sammies with a side salad or your favorite chips for a complete and satisfying meal.
These Meatball Sammies represent more than just a recipe; they symbolize the ability to create a wholesome, delicious meal, even when time is short. They’re a testament to efficient cooking without compromising on taste. So, go ahead and try them! They’re sure to become a staple in your family's meal rotation.
