Introduction
Imagine the creamy, gooey delight of mac ānā cheese combined with the savory flavor of beef meatballs, all nestled in a fresh sub roll and topped with crispy turkey bacon. This Turkey Bacon Mac ānā Cheese Meatball Sub is the ultimate comfort food mashup, perfect for any meal of the day. Whether youāre hosting a game day gathering, looking for a family-friendly dinner, or simply craving something indulgent, this sub has got you covered. Itās a delightful blend of textures and flavors that will leave everyone at the table satisfied.
Overview of the Recipe
This recipe brings together two all-time favorite comfort foodsāmac ānā cheese and meatballsāinto one epic sandwich. The star of the show is the beef meatballs, seasoned to perfection and baked until tender. Theyāre paired with a rich, creamy cheddar macaroni and cheese thatās sure to please. To top it all off, crispy turkey bacon adds a savory crunch that perfectly complements the softness of the sub roll and the gooey mac ānā cheese.
History and Origin
Mac ānā cheese and meatballs are both dishes with deep roots in culinary history. Macaroni and cheese has been a staple comfort food in American households since the 19th century, evolving from a simple pasta and cheese dish into a beloved classic with countless variations. Meatballs, on the other hand, are a versatile dish with origins in several cultures, from Italian to Swedish cuisine. Combining these two favorites into a sub sandwich is a modern twist, offering a new way to enjoy these timeless dishes.
Ingredients
For the Meatballs:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Mac ānā Cheese:
- 2 cups macaroni, cooked
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon butter
For Assembly:
- 8 slices of turkey bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 4 sub rolls
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375Ā°F (190Ā°C) to ensure itās ready for baking the meatballs.
- Prepare the Meatballs:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Mix the ingredients thoroughly until well combined. This ensures that the meatballs will hold together and have an even flavor.
- Form the Meatballs:
- Use your hands to shape the mixture into meatballs. You should get about 12-16 meatballs, depending on the size.
- Place the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or lightly greased to prevent sticking.
- Bake the Meatballs:
- Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes, or until fully cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 160Ā°F (70Ā°C).
- While the meatballs are baking, you can start preparing the mac ānā cheese.
- Prepare the Mac ānā Cheese:
- In a medium-sized saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Once melted, add the heavy cream and stir well to combine.
- Gradually add the shredded cheddar cheese to the cream mixture, stirring constantly until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until the pasta is evenly coated with the creamy, cheesy goodness.
- Cook the Turkey Bacon:
- While the mac ānā cheese is coming together, cook the turkey bacon slices in a skillet over medium heat until theyāre crispy.
- Remove the bacon from the skillet and place it on a paper towel to drain excess grease.
- Once cooled, crumble the turkey bacon into small pieces.
- Assemble the Subs:
- Slice the sub rolls open, being careful not to cut all the way through.
- Spoon a generous amount of mac ānā cheese into each sub roll, creating a solid base for the meatballs.
- Place 3-4 meatballs on top of the mac ānā cheese in each roll.
- Sprinkle the crumbled turkey bacon over the meatballs.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Garnish each sub with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a pop of color and added freshness.
- Serve the subs immediately while everything is still warm and the cheese is gooey.
Serving and Pairing Suggestions
These Turkey Bacon Mac ānā Cheese Meatball Subs are a meal on their own, but you can elevate the experience by serving them with a side of crispy sweet potato fries or a fresh green salad. A cold, refreshing glass of iced tea or lemonade would pair nicely with the rich flavors of the sub, balancing out the savory elements with a bit of sweetness.
Variations of the Recipe
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the meatball mixture for a hint of heat.
- Vegetarian Version: Substitute the beef meatballs with plant-based meatballs and use turkey bacon alternatives.
- Cheese Swap: Try using a different cheese, such as Gouda or Monterey Jack, for a unique flavor twist in the mac ānā cheese.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs for the meatballs and gluten-free pasta for the mac ānā cheese to make the dish suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
Health Benefits
This recipe can be modified to suit various dietary needs. By using lean ground beef, turkey bacon, and whole wheat sub rolls, you can make a healthier version without sacrificing flavor. Additionally, cheddar cheese is a good source of calcium and protein, while parsley offers a dose of vitamins A and C.
FAQs
Q: Can I make the meatballs ahead of time? A: Yes, the meatballs can be made in advance. Prepare and bake them as directed, then store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat before assembling the subs.
Q: What can I use instead of turkey bacon? A: If you prefer a different type of bacon, you can use beef bacon or a vegetarian alternative.
Q: How can I make the mac ānā cheese creamier? A: For an even creamier mac ānā cheese, consider adding a bit more heavy cream or incorporating a soft cheese like cream cheese into the sauce.
Q: Can I use a different type of bread? A: Absolutely! These meatball subs would also be delicious on ciabatta rolls, hoagie buns, or even a baguette.
Conclusion
The Turkey Bacon Mac ānā Cheese Meatball Sub is a deliciously indulgent treat that combines the best of comfort food into one satisfying sandwich. With tender, flavorful meatballs, creamy macaroni and cheese, and the savory crunch of turkey bacon, this sub is sure to become a family favorite. Whether youāre making it for a casual weeknight dinner or serving it at a special gathering, itās a dish that everyone will love. Enjoy the hearty flavors and the comforting feel of this unique, mouthwatering sub.