Easy Dinner Recipes for Family: BBQ Meatball Subs in 20 Minutes

Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 10 minutes
Total time: 20 minutes
Servings: 4

Creating quick yet satisfying dinners is a challenge many busy families face. One dish that brings joy and convenience is BBQ meatball subs. These subs are packed with flavor and can be put together in a mere twenty minutes, making them perfect for those hectic weeknights. Imagine biting into a warm, toasty bun filled with juicy, savory meatballs drenched in tangy barbecue sauce! This recipe is not only quick but also adaptable, allowing you to cater to your family’s preferences. Whether you’re a kitchen novice or a seasoned cook, this recipe will guide you through the process effortlessly.

What Is Easy Dinner Recipes for Family: BBQ Meatball Subs in 20 Minutes?

BBQ meatball subs are a nostalgic twist on classic sandwiches. They typically consist of meatballs made from ground meat, breadcrumbs, and various seasonings, simmered in a flavorful barbecue sauce before being served in a soft bun. This dish is both comforting and satisfying, making it a family favorite. The ingredients meld beautifully, creating a delicious meal that is ready in no time. With the right approach, dinner can be a delightful experience, bringing everyone to the table without a lengthy wait.

Why You’ll Love This

One glance at these BBQ meatball subs, and your taste buds will start to tingle with anticipation. Here are several reasons why this dish stands out:

• Speed: With a total cooking time of only 20 minutes, it’s ideal for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful: Featuring sweet and tangy BBQ sauce, these subs provide a burst of flavor in each bite.
• Customizable: You can easily alter the ingredients to fit dietary needs or personal preferences.
• Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy this satisfying meal, making it a hit for family dinners.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For this quick recipe, you’ll need the following ingredients. Each component plays a vital role in creating that delightful flavor:

• 1 pound ground beef: Traditional and robust, it provides the meatiness that pairs perfectly with BBQ sauce.
• 1 cup breadcrumbs: These are essential for binding the meatballs together, offering a pleasant texture.
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a rich, savory flavor to the meatballs while also enhancing their moisture.
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley: Brightens the dish and adds a pop of color.
• 1 large egg: Acts as a binder for the meatballs, ensuring they hold their shape while cooking.
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder: Provides a strong, aromatic flavor, enhancing the overall taste.
• 1 teaspoon onion powder: Complements the garlic while adding depth to the flavor profile.
• 1/2 cup BBQ sauce: The star of the show, transforming the meatballs into a mouth-watering experience.
• 4 sub sandwich rolls: These will cradle the meatballs and sauce, completing your dish.

How to Make

Now that the ingredients are gathered, let’s move on to crafting these mouth-watering subs step by step.

1. Preheat and Prep: Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will help in achieving golden, crispy subs. While the oven is heating, gather a large mixing bowl to combine the ingredients.
2. Mix the Meatball Mixture: In your mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, egg, garlic powder, and onion powder. Use your hands to mix everything together gently, ensuring that no area’s overworked. The mixture should be well-blended but still tender.
3. Form the Meatballs: With clean hands, shape the mixture into small meatballs, roughly the size of a golf ball. These should hold their shape yet remain light. Place the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake the Meatballs: Once your oven is ready, bake the meatballs for about 10 minutes. They should be firm to the touch and lightly browned. This quick baking time helps retain their moisture while developing flavor.
5. Coat with BBQ Sauce: After baking, remove the meatballs from the oven and coat them lightly in BBQ sauce. Return them to the oven for an additional 2 minutes to caramelize the sauce slightly, adding a deeper flavor.
6. Assemble Your Subs: Slice the sub rolls lengthwise and fill them with the BBQ-coated meatballs. You can add extra BBQ sauce on top if desired, and feel free to add toppings like coleslaw or pickles for extra crunch.

Variations & Substitutions

This recipe offers many ways to customize based on dietary preferences and tastes.

Turkey Meatball Subs: For a lighter option, swap out ground beef for ground turkey or chicken. This not only reduces fat content but also provides a different flavor profile. When using turkey, ensure you add extra moisture, maybe an additional egg or some diced vegetables to keep the meatballs juicy.

Vegetarian Option: To cater to plant-based diets, consider using lentils or chickpeas as the base for your meatballs. Combine cooked lentils with breadcrumbs and your choice of seasonings. You can also incorporate grated vegetables for added texture and nutrition.

Spicy BBQ Meatballs: If you crave heat, mix some chopped jalapeños or add hot sauce to your BBQ sauce. This simple adjustment can transform the subs into a fiery delight that spiciness lovers will enjoy.

Different Sauces: Feel free to deviate from BBQ sauce entirely! Teriyaki or sweet and sour sauce can create an Asian-inspired meatball sub. Adjust your seasonings accordingly to match the sauce.

These variations allow you to create a meal that suits your family’s preferences while keeping the core recipe simple and adaptable.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Crafting delicious meatball subs can be straightforward, but several common pitfalls can hinder your success. Here are a few issues to watch out for:

Overmixing the Meat: When combining the meat and other ingredients, avoid overmixing. This can lead to tough meatballs instead of tender ones. Work the mixture just enough to combine everything until you can no longer see the breadcrumbs.

Too Much BBQ Sauce: While it is tempting to slather on the BBQ sauce, overdoing it can result in soggy buns. Use just enough to coat the meatballs while keeping the buns intact, ensuring a perfect bite.

Skipping the Baking Step: Some might think that simply frying the meatballs in a pan would suffice. Baking them allows for even cooking and a lovely texture that pan-frying may not achieve on its own.

With these tips, you’ll create meatball subs that are sure to impress.

Storage, Freezing & Reheating Tips

Store any leftover meatball subs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When storing, it’s best to keep the meatballs and rolls separate to prevent sogginess. If you make a larger batch and wish to freeze them, follow these tips:

– **Freezing:** Form meatballs, place them on a baking sheet, and freeze them until solid. Transfer the meatballs into a freezer-safe bag or container and label them with the date. They can be stored for up to three months.
– **Thawing:** For best results, thaw meatballs in the refrigerator overnight before cooking.
– **Reheating:** Reheat meatballs by placing them in a pan on low heat, adding a splash of BBQ sauce to keep them moist. Alternatively, you can microwave them in short intervals until heated through. For the best texture, avoid reheating meatballs directly in the buns initially.

These storage tips ensure you can enjoy your delicious meal even days later.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use pre-made meatballs instead of making my own?
Absolutely! Pre-made meatballs can save you time, especially on busy nights. Just heat them in BBQ sauce in a pan until warmed through. Make sure to check the packaging for cooking instructions to ensure the best results.

What sides pair well with BBQ meatball subs?
For a balanced meal, consider serving these delicious subs with simple side dishes like a crunchy coleslaw, sweet potato fries, or a fresh garden salad. Each of these sides adds a wonderful contrast to the hearty meatballs.

Can I adjust the sweetness of the BBQ sauce?
Yes, BBQ sauces can vary in sweetness. If your family prefers a less sweet sauce, opt for a vinegar-based BBQ sauce or add additional spices to balance out the flavor. Adjust the sauce to your family’s taste by mixing in hot sauce or mustard for a kick!

How can I make this recipes healthier?
Consider using leaner meats like ground turkey or chicken, or even plant-based protein sources. You can also add shredded vegetables or grains to the meat mixture for added nutrients. Additionally, using whole-grain rolls can make this meal more nutritious.

Can I prepare the meatballs in advance?
Absolutely! You can make the meatballs a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake. This allows for an even quicker assembly at dinner time, making your weeknight meal even simpler.

Conclusion:
In a world where meal prep can become overwhelming, BBQ meatball subs offer a delightful solution that doesn’t compromise on taste or time. With this easy recipe, you can bring your family together for a hearty dinner that satisfies everyone without spending hours in the kitchen. Remember, the best meals are those shared with loved ones, and this recipe makes that both achievable and enjoyable!