Zesty Meatball Sandwiches

These are extremely good sandwiches. To really simplify this, you can use a jarred marinara sauce in place of the homemade, and/or frozen Italian beef meatballs, in place of the homemade. However, it is worth the extra effort to make these from scratch.

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Sauce
chopped onions
1 garlic clove, minced
1 tbsp olive or vegetable oil
1 (28-oz.) can diced tomatoes, undrained
1/2 of a (6-oz.) can tomato paste
1/2 cup water
1 bay leaf
1 1/2 tsp oregano leaves
1 tbsp granulated sugar
1/2 tsp salt
1/8 tsp pepper

In a large skillet, saute the onion and garlic in the oil until tender-crisp. Add the remaining sauce ingredients and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat, cover, and simmer for 30 minutes. Remove the bay leaf and set the sauce aside.

Meatballs
2 eggs, lightly beaten
2 tbsp water
4 slices white bread, crusts removed and bread cubed
1 pound ground beef
1/2 cup parmesan cheese
2 tbsp minced fresh parsley
1 garlic clove, minced
1/2 tsp dried oregano
1/2 tsp salt
dash pepper

5-6 Italian rolls, or hoagie buns
Sliced Mozzarella or Provolone cheese, optional


In a large bowl, beat together the eggs and water, then toss in the bread cubes. Add the ground beef, parmesan cheese, parsley, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix together and form into 1 1/2" balls. Place meatballs on a parchment paper-lined baking pan with sides. Bake 350 degrees for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.

Add the meatballs to the sauce and simmer for 20 - 30 minutes. Serve the meatballs on the rolls, and spoon the sauce over. If desired, place a thin slice of cheese over the top. Wrap loosely in aluminum foil and bake 350 degrees, for about 15-20 minutes or until the cheese is lightly browned.

Note: It is not necessary to bake the sandwiches if you don't want to, but it might be best if you are adding the cheese. Serve with sauce on the side.