About the Recipe

I’m excited to share a recipe that combines comfort and nutrition in a truly delicious way: Meatball Subs on Hawaiian Rolls. This recipe takes the classic meatball sub and gives it a tropical twist with sweet and fluffy Hawaiian rolls, making each bite a delightful balance of flavors.

But it’s not just about taste—this dish is a healthier alternative to the traditional meatball sub. By using lean ground meat and incorporating plenty of fresh herbs and spices, you get all the savory goodness without unnecessary fat. The Hawaiian rolls, while soft and slightly sweet, are a lighter option than many other bread choices, providing just the right amount of indulgence.

Whether you’re looking for a satisfying meal for your family or a fun, healthier twist for a game day treat, these meatball subs are sure to impress. They’re as nutritious as they are flavorful, making them a perfect addition to your recipe repertoire. Enjoy!

Ingredients:

• For the Meatballs:
  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese
  • 3/4 cup bread crumbs
  • 1 egg
  • 1/4 cup onion, finely chopped
  • 1/4 cup green pepper, finely chopped
  • 1 garlic clove, minced
  • 1/8 teaspoon garlic salt
• For Assembly:
  • 6 Hawaiian rolls
  • Pasta sauce (amount as desired)
  • Provolone or mozzarella cheese (sliced or shredded, as desired)
  • Butter (for spreading on rolls)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Meatballs:
   • In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, Parmesan cheese, bread crumbs, egg, finely chopped onion, finely chopped green pepper, minced garlic, and garlic salt. Mix until well combined.
   • Roll the mixture into small meatballs, sized to fit comfortably inside your Hawaiian rolls.
2. Cook the Meatballs:
   • Place the meatballs in a pot and pour enough pasta sauce over them to cover partially. The meatballs don’t need to be completely submerged.
   • Set the pot on the stove over low heat. Simmer the meatballs for about 1 hour, stirring occasionally, until they are cooked through and flavorful.
3. Prepare the Rolls:
   • Preheat your oven to 350°F
   • Take 3 Hawaiian rolls and carefully cut out a section from the middle of each roll to create a pocket for the meatballs.
   • Lightly butter the outside of the rolls and place them on a baking sheet.
   • Sprinkle or place cheese inside each roll.
4. Bake the Rolls:
   • Bake the rolls in the preheated oven for 10 minutes, or until the cheese inside is melted and the rolls are slightly crisped.
5. Assemble the Subs:
   • Remove the rolls from the oven.
   • Fill each roll with the meatballs and top with additional cheese and a spoonful of pasta sauce.
   • Return the filled rolls to the oven for 3-4 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Serve:
   • Remove from the oven and serve hot. Enjoy your delicious Meatball Subs on Hawaiian Rolls!

For a visual guide to making these tasty subs, check out the YouTube video below where I demonstrate the entire process step-by-step.