Cheesy Basil Turkey Meatball Subs Recipe

If you’re craving a comforting, flavor-packed meal that will quickly become a family favorite, this Cheesy Basil Turkey Meatball Subs Recipe is exactly what you need. Juicy turkey meatballs seasoned with fragrant fresh and dried basil, rich garlic, and sharp parmesan cheese come together with creamy ricotta and mozzarella to create a sandwich experience that’s juicy, cheesy, and bursting with fresh herbal notes. Whether you’re looking for a cozy dinner or a fun weekend treat, these subs deliver on every level with the perfect balance of textures and flavors.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Simple, fresh, and thoughtfully combined ingredients make all the difference in this recipe. Each component plays a vital role from building flavor, to creating moist, tender meatballs, to melting into gooey, irresistible cheesiness inside your sub.

• 1 pound ground turkey: The lean protein base that keeps these meatballs light yet juicy.
• 1 large egg: Helps bind the meatballs while adding richness.
• 4 garlic cloves, minced: Adds a punch of aromatic depth.
• 3 tablespoons ricotta cheese: For creamy moisture that locks in tenderness.
• ½ cup breadcrumbs: Provides structure without drying out the meatballs.
• ½ cup parmesan cheese: Packs a nutty, salty kick that elevates the flavor.
• ⅓ cup chopped fresh basil: Brings fresh, sweet herbal brightness.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Enhances the garlic notes subtly throughout.
• 1 teaspoon dried basil: Adds concentrated basil flavor for a layered effect.
• Kosher salt and pepper: Crucial for seasoning and balancing flavors.
• Olive oil for browning: Helps achieve that delicious golden crust on the meatballs.
• 24 ounces marinara sauce: A vibrant tomato base that ties everything beautifully together.
• 8 ounces fresh mozzarella, torn into pieces: Melts to luscious, stringy perfection.
• Sub rolls: Soft, sturdy carriers for all that cheesy, saucy goodness.

How to Make Cheesy Basil Turkey Meatball Subs Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Meatball Mixture

Begin by combining all your fresh and pantry ingredients in a large bowl: ground turkey, beaten egg, minced garlic, ricotta, parmesan, fresh chopped basil, breadcrumbs, dried basil, garlic powder, and seasoning with salt and pepper. Mix everything gently until just combined — overmixing will make your meatballs dense, and we want them tender and juicy.

Step 2: Brown the Meatballs

Heat a splash of olive oil in an oven-safe pan over medium heat. Use a spoon to roll and place the meatballs in the pan, turning and browning each side until golden brown; this usually takes about ten minutes. This searing step locks in moisture and adds a beautiful texture contrast.

Step 3: Add Sauce and Cheese, Then Bake

Once the meatballs are seared, pour your marinara sauce over them. Scatter torn pieces of fresh mozzarella on top; as it bakes, this cheese melts into irresistibly gooey bites. Transfer the pan to a 400-degree oven and bake for 20 minutes, letting the flavors meld and the cheese bubble up.

Step 4: Finish with Fresh Toppings

Take the pan out of the oven and sprinkle with additional fresh basil leaves, a little more parmesan cheese, and a pinch of crushed red pepper if you like a subtle kick. This final touch brightens and sharpens the rich, indulgent flavors.

Step 5: Assemble the Subs

Keep the oven on and place your sub rolls on a baking sheet. Spoon in the hot meatballs along with plenty of sauce and melty cheese. Pop the assembled subs back in the oven for 5 minutes to toast the rolls just enough, so they’re warm and slightly crisp on the outside. Remove and garnish with fresh basil leaves to serve.

How to Serve Cheesy Basil Turkey Meatball Subs Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh basil is a must for garnish—it adds a fragrant, herbaceous note that cuts through the richness. A light sprinkle of extra parmesan cheese enhances the savory flavor, while crushed red pepper flakes can add an exciting little heat if you enjoy some spice.

Side Dishes

Pair these subs with a crisp green salad dressed simply in lemon and olive oil to balance out the richness of the meatballs. Roasted vegetables or classic oven-baked fries also make perfect companions, offering textural contrast and extra satisfaction.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, try serving mini meatball sliders on small rolls for party appetizers or game day snacking. You can also lay the meatballs over a bed of spaghetti or zucchini noodles for a hearty yet comforting dinner plate. Either way, your Cheesy Basil Turkey Meatball Subs Recipe is a winner!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover meatballs and sauce keep beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Store rolls separately to maintain their texture and assemble when ready to eat.

Freezing

You can freeze cooked meatballs and sauce together for up to 2 months. Freeze them in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty bag. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results.

Reheating

Reheat meatballs and sauce gently on the stove over low heat or in the microwave until warmed through. Toast your sub rolls fresh to restore that crispy, golden exterior, and then assemble for a fresh-tasting meal.

FAQs

Can I use ground chicken instead of turkey?

Absolutely! Ground chicken is a great substitute and will work similarly well in this recipe. Just keep an eye on moisture levels, as chicken can be leaner and potentially drier, so adding a bit more ricotta or breadcrumbs may help.

What can I use if I don’t have fresh basil?

If fresh basil isn’t available, dried basil can fill in, but fresh basil really elevates the flavor. Consider using a mix of dried oregano or parsley alongside dried basil to mimic some of the fresh herb brightness.

Can I make these meatballs gluten-free?

Yes! Simply swap the breadcrumbs for gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour. The texture might be slightly different but still delicious.

How spicy are these meatball subs?

This Cheesy Basil Turkey Meatball Subs Recipe is mild by default. If you like spice, add crushed red pepper flakes during cooking or as a garnish to kick up the heat to your preference.

Can I prepare the meatballs ahead of time?

Definitely. You can make the meatball mixture, shape the meatballs, and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before cooking. This makes weeknight dinners a breeze.

Final Thoughts

This Cheesy Basil Turkey Meatball Subs Recipe is more than just a meal—it’s a delicious way to bring loved ones together around unbeatable flavors and textures. The combination of fresh herbs, melty cheese, and juicy turkey meatballs tucked inside a toasty roll is pure comfort food bliss. Give this recipe a try, and watch it quickly become your go-to for satisfying dinners that feel special but are so simple to prepare.

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