Welcome to your new favorite weeknight meal: Texas Toast Meatball Subs! Forget those lengthy preparations and complicated ingredient lists. This recipe is designed for maximum flavor with minimal effort, bringing together the savory goodness of store-bought meatballs and rich marinara sauce, all nestled on crisp, garlic-infused Texas Toast and crowned with melted mozzarella cheese. It’s a game-changer for busy families, proving that a delicious, hearty meal can be ready in under 30 minutes. This open-faced sandwich is not just incredibly tasty; it’s also a meal that everyone, including the kids, can enjoy helping to assemble, making dinner a fun, collaborative experience.
QUICK, DELICIOUS, AND FAMILY-APPROVED: THE ULTIMATE 5-INGREDIENT DINNER
In our culinary journey, we’ve discovered a deep affection for recipes built around the magic of garlic Texas Toast, and the possibilities truly feel boundless! From cheesy pizzas to hearty sloppy joes, this versatile bread elevates every dish it touches. Today, we’re thrilled to share our latest creation: a meatball sub version that was an instant, resounding hit with my entire family. This isn’t just a meal; it’s a comforting, satisfying experience that brings smiles all around. These open-faced meatball sandwiches are the epitome of an easy weeknight meal, designed to please even the pickiest eaters. What makes them even better is how accessible they are; older children can safely assist with several steps, turning dinner preparation into a fun, interactive family activity. Imagine the joy of creating something so delicious together, knowing that a fantastic meal is just minutes away.
Our whole family loved these! So easy that even the younger kids were able to help make them. We love all your recipes, thanks so much!
– Jay
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT TEXAS TOAST MEATBALL SUBS
These flavorful meatball subs are incredibly versatile when it comes to side dishes. In our pictures, you’ll notice we served them alongside a fresh green salad, generously topped with Homemade Ranch Dressing, which provides a wonderful counterpoint to the rich, savory subs. However, any salad you love would be a fantastic choice; for an ultra-easy option, simply grab a pre-made bag of salad with dressing from your local grocery store. Beyond salads, a side of your favorite vegetables would complement these subs perfectly. Consider serving them with vibrant Sheet Pan Vegetables for a pop of color and extra nutrition, or keep it wonderfully simple with a bag of your favorite steamed veggies. Garlic green beans, roasted broccoli, or even a classic coleslaw would also be excellent choices.
Absolutely! While mozzarella is a classic choice for its meltiness and mild flavor, there are several delicious alternatives. If you’re looking for a slightly sharper, creamier profile, provolone cheese would be an excellent and highly recommended substitute. Its smooth melting quality works wonderfully with the meatballs and marinara. Other fantastic options include a blend of Italian cheeses, or even some shredded Parmesan or Romano mixed in for an extra punch of umami flavor. For a slight tang, a sprinkle of goat cheese or feta could also offer an interesting twist, though it would create a different flavor profile than a traditional meatball sub.
Of course! This recipe is all about convenience, making it perfect for those busy nights when you need a quick, delicious meal. That’s why we opted for pre-made ingredients. However, if you have the time and desire, homemade meatballs will undoubtedly elevate this dish to another level of deliciousness! This is your kitchen, and you’re the chef, so feel free to personalize it. If you’re keen on making your own, you can use our tried-and-true Homemade Meatball recipe, or for a lighter alternative, try our Homemade Chicken Meatballs. Just ensure your homemade meatballs are cooked through and simmered in the sauce before topping your Texas Toast.
Absolutely, customizing the bread is a fantastic way to make this recipe your own! While frozen garlic Texas Toast offers incredible convenience and consistent results, making your own garlic bread from scratch allows you to control the flavors and textures precisely. This recipe is designed to be as easy or as involved as you wish! Our Homemade Garlic Bread recipe is a perfect companion if you decide to go the homemade route, offering a warm, fragrant, and perfectly crisp base for your meatball subs. You can use any thick-sliced bread, slathered with garlic butter and herbs, then toasted to golden perfection.
Yes, just like with the other homemade swaps, using your own marinara sauce will add a fresh, vibrant depth of flavor to your meatball subs. While a good quality store-bought pasta sauce makes this meal super quick, a homemade sauce brings a special touch. If you’re up for making your own, our Homemade Marinara Sauce recipe is an excellent choice. It’s packed with rich tomato flavor and aromatic herbs, creating a truly authentic taste experience. You can even prepare a large batch of marinara ahead of time and freeze it, making weeknight meals like this one even easier!
Storing leftovers properly ensures you can enjoy these delicious subs again! Once cooled, place any leftover Texas Toast Meatball Subs in an airtight container and refrigerate them for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to reheat, the best method to maintain their texture and prevent sogginess is to use your oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), place the subs on a baking sheet, and heat for about 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the meatballs are heated through. Microwaving is an option for speed, but it can sometimes make the toast a bit soft. While I haven’t personally tried freezing these subs, I believe they would freeze well. If freezing, wrap each sub tightly in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil, and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 1-2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating in the oven.
KEY INGREDIENTS FOR EFFORTLESS MEATBALL SUBS
Crafting these delectable Texas Toast Meatball Subs requires just a handful of straightforward ingredients, emphasizing convenience without compromising on taste. Here’s what you’ll need to gather:
- Frozen Italian Meatballs: The star of our show! Choose your favorite brand of frozen Italian meatballs for maximum flavor and ease. These come in various sizes and seasonings, so pick one that suits your family’s preference. Alternatively, if you have more time, feel free to use your cherished homemade meatball recipe. The key is to ensure they are small enough to sit comfortably on a slice of garlic bread, typically about 1-1.5 inches in diameter.
- Roasted Garlic Pasta Sauce: A high-quality pasta sauce is crucial for a rich and satisfying meatball sub. I highly recommend Rao’s Roasted Garlic Pasta Sauce for its incredible depth of flavor and premium ingredients, or Aldi’s Specially Selected Premium Marinara Sauce if you’re looking for a budget-friendly yet excellent option. However, don’t hesitate to use any marinara or pasta sauce that you genuinely love. The roasted garlic variety adds an extra layer of savory aroma that truly elevates the dish.
- Frozen Garlic Texas Toast: This is the foundation of our open-faced subs, bringing a buttery, garlicky crunch that perfectly complements the soft meatballs and sauce. Most grocery stores carry a variety of brands; choose one that toasts up golden and crisp. Its thicker cut is ideal for holding all the delicious toppings without getting soggy too quickly.
- Mozzarella Cheese Slices: The ultimate melting cheese for a classic meatball sub experience. While shredded mozzarella certainly works and melts beautifully, I find that pre-sliced mozzarella is just a bit easier to handle and arrange uniformly over the meatballs. You can adjust the quantity based on how cheesy you like your subs – anywhere from a half slice to a full slice per piece of toast works wonders.
- Dried Parsley (Optional Garnish): A sprinkle of dried parsley at the end adds a touch of freshness and a subtle herbaceous note, enhancing the visual appeal and brightening the flavors. For an extra pop of savory, Italian-inspired flavor, consider using dried Italian seasoning instead of parsley. It brings together a harmonious blend of herbs like oregano, basil, thyme, and rosemary.
HOW TO MAKE TEXAS TOAST MEATBALL SUBS: A STEP-BY-STEP GUIDE
Creating these delightful Texas Toast Meatball Subs is incredibly simple and efficient, perfect for a speedy weeknight dinner. Follow these easy steps to bring this family-favorite meal to your table:
- Prepare Your Workspace and Preheat Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This ensures your Texas Toast will cook evenly and achieve that perfect golden crispness. While the oven preheats, line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking.
- Simmer the Meatballs and Sauce: In a large skillet, combine your chosen frozen Italian meatballs with the roasted garlic pasta sauce. Place the skillet over medium heat. Allow the mixture to simmer gently, stirring occasionally, until the meatballs are completely tender and heated through. This process typically takes about 10 minutes. The simmering also allows the meatballs to absorb the rich flavors of the marinara sauce.
- Bake the Texas Toast: While your meatballs are simmering to perfection, place the frozen garlic Texas toast slices on the prepared parchment paper-lined baking sheet. Bake them in the preheated oven according to the package directions. This usually takes approximately 5-7 minutes, depending on the brand and your oven’s calibration. Keep a close eye on them to ensure they turn golden brown and crisp, but don’t burn.
- Prepare the Toast for Toppings: Once the Texas Toast is cooked and removed from the oven, you’ll want to create a small indentation in the center of each slice. Gently press the back of a spoon into the middle of each piece of toast. This creates a perfect little “well” to hold the meatballs and sauce, preventing them from sliding off and ensuring every bite is packed with flavor.
- Load Up the Meatballs and Sauce: Now for the fun part! Carefully scoop about 4 meatballs, along with a generous amount of sauce, onto each piece of the indented Texas Toast. (Note: The number of meatballs may vary depending on their size. I found that 4 fit perfectly on each slice of the meatballs I used, ensuring a hearty portion without overcrowding.)
- Add the Cheese: Top each loaded piece of toast with a half slice to a full slice of mozzarella cheese. Adjust the quantity according to your personal preference for cheesiness. For extra melty goodness, you can even tear the slices to cover more surface area.
- Melt the Cheese to Perfection: Place the baking sheet with the topped subs back into the preheated oven for an additional 3-4 minutes, or until the mozzarella cheese is perfectly melted and bubbly, with a slight golden hue. This brief return to the oven ensures everything is warm and gooey.
- Garnish and Serve: Once the cheese is melted, remove the subs from the oven. If you have any leftover marinara sauce in the skillet, don’t let it go to waste! It makes an excellent dipping sauce for extra flavor. Finish by sprinkling a little dried parsley over each sub for a burst of color and fresh aroma. Serve immediately and enjoy your incredibly delicious, homemade-tasting Texas Toast Meatball Subs!
TIPS FOR PERFECT TEXAS TOAST MEATBALL SUBS
Achieving restaurant-quality Texas Toast Meatball Subs at home is easier than you think with a few simple tips:
- Don’t Overcrowd the Skillet: When simmering the meatballs and sauce, ensure your skillet isn’t too full. Overcrowding can lower the temperature of the sauce, leading to uneven cooking and preventing the meatballs from heating through properly. Use a larger skillet or cook in batches if necessary.
- Monitor Your Texas Toast Closely: Oven temperatures can vary. The 5-7 minute baking time for the Texas Toast is a guideline. Keep a watchful eye on it, especially during the last few minutes, to ensure it turns golden brown and crispy without burning. Nobody wants a burnt garlic bread base!
- Customize Your Cheese Level: The recipe suggests 1/2 to 1 slice of mozzarella per sub, but this is entirely up to your preference. If you’re a true cheese lover, feel free to add more! A blend of cheeses, like mozzarella and provolone, can also add extra flavor complexity.
- Ensure Meatballs are Heated Through: While the sauce will be hot, always ensure the frozen meatballs are thoroughly heated to a safe internal temperature. They should be tender and steaming hot throughout before being placed on the toast.
- Prevent Soggy Toast: The indentation step is key to preventing soggy toast. It creates a barrier and a designated space for the sauce, minimizing direct contact with the entire surface of the bread. Serving immediately after the cheese melts also helps maintain the toast’s crispness.
- Explore Garnish Options: While dried parsley adds a nice touch, consider other garnishes. A sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese, a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat, or even some fresh basil leaves can elevate the flavor and presentation.
VARIATIONS AND CUSTOMIZATIONS
This recipe is a fantastic canvas for creativity! Here are some ideas to customize your Texas Toast Meatball Subs:
- Meatball Madness: Experiment with different types of meatballs. Turkey or chicken meatballs offer a lighter alternative, while spicy Italian meatballs will kick up the heat. Plant-based meatballs are also an excellent option for vegetarian guests.
- Sauce It Up: Don’t limit yourself to roasted garlic marinara. Try a spicy arrabiata sauce for heat, a creamy rosé sauce for richness, or even a pesto-infused marinara for a unique twist.
- Bread Choices: If Texas Toast isn’t available or you want something different, use regular thick-sliced Italian bread or French bread. Simply spread with garlic butter and toast until golden. Brioche buns or ciabatta rolls could also work for a different texture.
- Add Some Veggies: Sautéed bell peppers and onions, sliced mushrooms, or even a handful of fresh spinach can be added to the simmering meatball sauce for extra flavor and nutrients.
- Cheese Please! Beyond mozzarella and provolone, consider a blend of Monterey Jack and cheddar for a sharper flavor, or even a smoky gouda for a gourmet touch.
- Spice Factor: If you love heat, stir in a pinch of red pepper flakes to your marinara sauce or sprinkle them over the finished subs. A dash of hot sauce before serving could also add a fiery kick.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS AND PERFECT PAIRINGS
These Texas Toast Meatball Subs are hearty enough to be a complete meal on their own, but pairing them with the right sides can truly elevate the dining experience:
- Fresh Green Salad: As mentioned, a crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette or a creamy ranch dressing (like our Homemade Ranch Dressing) is the classic pairing, offering a refreshing contrast to the rich subs.
- Roasted or Steamed Vegetables: Simple roasted broccoli, asparagus, or green beans tossed with garlic and olive oil make for a healthy and delicious side. Our Sheet Pan Vegetables offer a convenient option.
- Crispy Fries or Onion Rings: For a more indulgent meal, a side of golden French fries or crunchy onion rings makes for a satisfying addition that kids and adults alike will love.
- Pasta Salad: A light, zesty pasta salad with cherry tomatoes, olives, and feta cheese can be a wonderful, make-ahead side dish, perfect for summer evenings.
- Soup Pairing: In colder months, a cup of creamy tomato soup or a minestrone could create a comforting and complete meal.
- Extra Dipping Sauce: Don’t forget that extra marinara sauce! It’s perfect for dipping any stray meatballs or soaking up the last bits of garlic toast.
CRAVING MORE RECIPES?
If you’re loving the versatility and deliciousness of Texas Toast as much as we are, or simply can’t get enough of easy, family-friendly meals, explore some of our other fantastic recipes:
- Texas Toast French Dips
- Texas Toast Pizzas
- Texas Toast Sloppy Joes
- Buffalo Chicken Texas Toast
- Chicken Parmesan Texas Toast
- Meatball Sub Cups
- Meatball Sub on a Stick
- Meatball Sub Casserole
Texas Toast Meatball Subs
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5 minutes
15 minutes
20 minutes
8
Brandie Skibinski
Ingredients
- 32 frozen Italian meatballs
- 24 ounce jar pasta sauce (see notes below)
- 8 slices frozen garlic Texas toast
- 4-8 mozzarella cheese slices
- 2 teaspoons dried parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425° F. In a large skillet, add 32 frozen Italian meatballs and 24 ounce jar pasta sauce over medium heat.
- Simmer until the meatballs are tender and heated through. This will take approximately 10 minutes.
- While the meatballs are cooking, bake 8 slices frozen garlic Texas toast according to the package on a parchment paper-lined baking sheet. This will take approximately 5-7 minutes depending on the brand you buy.
- Once toast is cooked, remove from the oven. Press the center of the toast with the back of a spoon to make an indentation.
- Scoop 4 meatballs and sauce onto each piece of toast (note: with the meatballs I used, I could fit 4 on each slice of toast.)
- Top each with a 1/2 slice to 1 slice of mozzarella cheese (depending on how cheesy you like it.)
- Place back into the oven for 3-4 minutes or until the cheese is fully melted.
- Top each with a little sprinkle of dried parsley (optional.) If you have any leftover sauce, you can use it for dipping.
Video
Notes
- Please refer to my FAQ’s (Frequently Asked Questions) and ingredient list above for other substitutions or for the answers to the most common questions.
- I love RAO’S Roasted Garlic Pasta Sauce or the Aldi’s Specially Selected Premium Marinara Sauce.
Appetizer, Dinner, Lunch, Snack
American
Nutrition
Calories: 310kcal
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Carbohydrates: 22g
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Protein: 14g
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Fat: 19g
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Sodium: 647mg
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Fiber: 2g
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Sugar: 5g
Nutritional Disclaimer
“The Country Cook” is not a dietician or nutritionist, and any nutritional information shared is an estimate. If calorie count and other nutritional values are important to you, we recommend running the ingredients through whichever online nutritional calculator you prefer. Calories and other nutritional values can vary quite a bit depending on which brands were used.