The Freshman Cook: Mini Meatball Subs/#Foodie Extravaganza and a Giveaway!

It’s that time of year when we are busy celebrating our favorite football teams with tailgating  and parties. It is also that time of year when many of us are watching what we eat, resolving to try to do it healthier during the new year. I think this Mini Meatball Sub is perfect for watching the
 game, and because it is made with oatmeal it helps you feel better about eating and loving it!

I made this recipe to be quick and easy. It takes longer to roll the meatballs, than anything else. I used a jar of sauce instead of making it from scratch. There were several reasons for this. First, it is easier and quicker. Whether you are entertaining, making dinner or just trying to get a meal done and on the table, quick and easy is usually a priority. Second, I used a sauce that I knew was great tasting, has no added sugar, and low sodium.  I have used this sauce many times, Silver Palate San Marzano Pasta Sauce. I love substituting the oatmeal for the breadcrumbs. The oatmeal gives the meatballs a great texture, just like the breadcrumbs, and oatmeal is packed with vitamin b, and has no salt. Give it a try.

You won’t be disappointed!

1/2 cup Quick Oats

1 teaspoon Garlic Powder

1 Egg

1/4 cup Chopped Onion

1-25oz. jar Pasta Sauce
shredded Mozzarella Cheese

 Mini Sub Buns

Place the ground chuck, oats, garlic powder, egg, and chopped onion into a bowl. Use your hands to really combine all the ingredients. Roll your meatballs. I weighed each of mine.   I ended up with 17 meatballs. The majority weighed 1.27 ounces each. Make them weigh whatever you want. I thought this size was nice on the bun. Pour your jar of sauce in a pot and begin to heat it on the stove on a low temperature. Place your meatballs in a frying pan on medium heat. They will begin to brown. Turn them  until they are completely brown on the outside. As they brown, add the meatballs to the sauce. Do this gently. You don’t want the sauce to splatter, or the meatballs to break apart. The meatballs will continue to cook on the inside, but they will not brown once added to the sauce. Let the meatballs simmer for about 45 minutes. Place the meatballs on your roll, add some extra sauce, sprinkle with cheese, and enjoy!

Welcome to the Foodie Extravaganza!