Garlic Parmesan Turkey Meatball Subs (Printable)

Tender turkey meatballs simmered in creamy garlic-Parmesan sauce, served in toasted rolls with melted mozzarella.

# What You Need:

→ Turkey Meatballs

01 - 1 pound ground turkey
02 - 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
03 - 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
04 - 1 large egg
05 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
06 - 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
07 - 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
08 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
09 - 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

→ Garlic Parmesan Cream Sauce

10 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
11 - 4 cloves garlic, finely minced
12 - 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
13 - 1 cup whole milk
14 - 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
15 - 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
16 - Salt to taste

→ Assembly

17 - 4 Italian sub rolls or hoagie rolls
18 - 1 tablespoon olive oil
19 - 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
20 - Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

# Step-by-Step:

01 - Preheat oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
02 - In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, egg, minced garlic, parsley, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overwork the mixture.
03 - Shape the mixture into 16 even meatballs and arrange on the prepared baking sheet.
04 - Bake for 18 to 20 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
05 - In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
06 - Whisk flour into the butter and garlic mixture. Cook for 1 minute to create a roux.
07 - Gradually add whole milk while whisking constantly to prevent lumps from forming.
08 - Stir in Parmesan cheese and black pepper. Simmer for 2 to 3 minutes until thickened. Adjust seasoning with salt to taste.
09 - Add baked meatballs to the sauce, turning gently to coat all sides. Simmer for 2 to 3 minutes.
10 - Preheat broiler. Split sub rolls and brush insides with olive oil. Toast under broiler for 1 to 2 minutes until lightly golden.
11 - Arrange 4 meatballs with sauce in each toasted roll. Sprinkle mozzarella cheese evenly over the top.
12 - Return subs to broiler for 2 to 3 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
13 - Garnish with fresh chopped parsley and serve immediately while hot.

# Expert Suggestions:

01 -
  • Leaner Protein: Uses ground turkey for a lighter alternative to traditional beef or pork meatballs.
  • Rich Flavor Profile: The combination of roasted garlic and aged Parmesan creates a sophisticated cream sauce.
  • Quick and Hearty: Ready in under an hour, providing a complete, filling meal.
  • Texture Contrast: Combines soft meatballs and creamy sauce with crunchy, olive oil-brushed toasted rolls.
02 -
  • Cleanup: Always use parchment paper on your baking sheet to prevent the meatballs from sticking and to make cleanup effortless.
  • Temperature Control: Keep a close eye on the subs while they are under the broiler, as the rolls and cheese can go from perfectly golden to burnt very quickly.
  • Cheese Melt: Use freshly shredded mozzarella rather than pre-shredded varieties for a better melt and superior flavor.
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