Bacon Mac ‘n’ Cheese Meatball Sub

Imagine sinking your teeth into a warm, toasted sub roll filled with gooey mac ‘n’ cheese, crispy bacon, and juicy meatballs. This Bacon Mac ‘n’ Cheese Meatball Sub is the epitome of comfort food. It’s the kind of meal that takes you back to childhood, reminding you of those indulgent moments when you wanted to combine all your favorite flavors into one epic dish. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner, a game day treat, or just because you deserve a little comfort, this sub delivers on all fronts.

The combination of creamy mac ‘n’ cheese with the rich, smoky flavor of bacon and the hearty goodness of meatballs is truly a match made in food heaven. This isn’t just a sandwich; it’s an experience. Each bite offers a perfect balance of textures and flavors that will leave you craving more. Plus, it’s incredibly satisfying and easy to make, making it a go-to recipe for when you want something hearty and delicious. Prepare to wow your taste buds with this unforgettable sub!

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Ingredients

• For the Meatballs:
  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper to taste
• For the Mac ‘n’ Cheese:
  • 2 cups elbow macaroni
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups milk
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • Salt and pepper to taste
• For the Sub:
  • 4 sub rolls
  • 8 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup chopped parsley (optional)

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Directions

1. Prepare the Meatballs:
   • In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
   • Mix until well combined.
   • Roll the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.
   • Place the meatballs on a baking sheet and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until fully cooked.
2. Cook the Mac ‘n’ Cheese:
   • Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions.
   • In a separate saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
   • Stir in the flour and cook for 1 minute to create a roux.
   • Gradually whisk in the milk and cook until the mixture thickens.
   • Add the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until melted and smooth.
   • Season with salt and pepper to taste.
   • Combine the cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce.
3. Assemble the Sub:
   • Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
   • Slice the sub rolls in half and place them on a baking sheet.
   • Fill each roll with a generous serving of mac ‘n’ cheese, then top with meatballs.
   • Sprinkle crumbled bacon and Parmesan cheese over the top.
   • Bake in the oven for 10 minutes, or until the rolls are toasted and the cheese is melted.
   • Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired, and serve hot.

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How to Prepare

Preparation is straightforward yet gratifying. Start by crafting your meatballs; mix all the ingredients thoroughly to ensure every bite is flavorful. Bake them to perfection while you cook the macaroni and whip up a creamy cheese sauce. Once everything is ready, it’s time to assemble. Layer the mac ‘n’ cheese and meatballs into the sub rolls, then top with crispy bacon and extra cheese for that finishing touch. A quick bake in the oven melds all the flavors together into one glorious, cheesy sandwich. Simple, satisfying, and oh-so-delicious.

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Preparation Time

• Meatball Preparation and Cooking: 30 minutes
• Mac ‘n’ Cheese Preparation: 20 minutes
• Sub Assembly and Baking: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes

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Servings

This recipe yields 4 servings, perfect for a family dinner or a satisfying meal for two with leftovers.

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FAQs

1. Can I use store-bought meatballs?
   • Absolutely! If you’re short on time, store-bought meatballs can be a convenient substitute. Just make sure to warm them thoroughly before adding them to the sub.
2. What other cheese can I use for the mac ‘n’ cheese?
   • Cheddar is a classic choice, but feel free to mix it up with other cheeses like Monterey Jack, Gouda, or even a touch of blue cheese for added flavor.
3. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
   • Yes, you can prepare the meatballs and mac ‘n’ cheese in advance. Store them separately in the fridge, then assemble and bake the subs when you’re ready to eat.
4. Is there a vegetarian option?
   • You can easily make this dish vegetarian by using meatless meatballs and omitting the bacon. There are plenty of delicious plant-based meatball options available!
5. Can I freeze leftovers?
   • While you can freeze the meatballs and mac ‘n’ cheese separately, it’s best to enjoy the assembled subs fresh. Freezing may affect the texture of the bread and cheese.

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Conclusion

The Bacon Mac ‘n’ Cheese Meatball Sub is more than just a sandwich—it’s a feast for the senses. Combining the richness of homemade mac ‘n’ cheese, the savoriness of bacon, and the heartiness of meatballs, this sub is the ultimate comfort food. Perfect for cozy nights in, family dinners, or even as a standout dish for casual gatherings, it’s a recipe that brings joy to every bite.

Not only is this sub easy to make, but it also offers the kind of satisfaction that only comes from homemade goodness. The ingredients are simple, the preparation is straightforward, and the result is nothing short of extraordinary. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen novice, this recipe is sure to impress. So, gather your ingredients, set aside an hour, and treat yourself to a meal that’s indulgent, comforting, and utterly delicious.

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