Juicy BBQ meatballs on a soft roll with melted cheddar

Are you looking for an original take on a meatball sandwich? These BBQ Meatball Subs are packed with juicy beef meatballs, seasoned with Natural Spices Beef BBQ Chief. Together with melted cheddar, caramelized red onion and a drizzle of Beasty BBQ Zero sauce, they make a delicious lunch or easy weeknight meal. This American comfort food is on the table in under 30 minutes.

Ingredients (2 people)

For the meatballs

• 300 g ground beef
• 1 tsp Natural Spices Beef BBQ Chief
• 1 small clove garlic, finely chopped
• 1 tbsp breadcrumbs
• 1 egg
• Pepper to taste
• Pinch of salt (optional)
• 1 tbsp oil

Also

• 2 soft sub rolls or pistolets
• 1 red onion, in half rings
• 40 g grated cheddar
• 2 tbsp Natural Zero Beasty BBQ sauce
• 1 small tomato, in slices
• Handful iceberg lettuce or little gem
• Optional: pickles, jalapeño or fresh parsley

Preparation

1. Mix the ground beef with the Beef BBQ Chief, garlic, breadcrumbs, egg and pepper. Optionally add a small pinch of salt. Knead briefly and form 10 to 12 small meatballs.
2. Heat the oil in a frying pan and brown the meatballs all over. Let them cook through in about 8 to 10 minutes.
3. Add the red onion to the pan for the last 3 minutes and fry until soft and lightly caramelized.
4. Slice the rolls open and top the bottom with lettuce and tomato.
5. Divide the meatballs and the red onion over the rolls.
6. Sprinkle the cheddar over and place the rolls under the grill or in a preheated oven at 200 °C for 3 to 5 minutes until the cheese is nicely melted.
7. Finish with the Beasty BBQ Zero sauce and optionally pickles, jalapeño or some fresh parsley.

Serve immediately.

Airfryer preparation

• Preheat the airfryer to 180 °C.
• Cook the meatballs for 8 to 10 minutes and shake halfway.
• Then place the assembled rolls without lettuce and tomato back in the airfryer for 2 to 3 minutes so the cheddar melts.
• Then add the lettuce, tomato and BBQ sauce.

Variation tips

• Use brioche hot dog buns for a more luxurious version.
• Replace cheddar with aged cheese or mozzarella.
• Add sautéed mushrooms for extra flavor.
• Make it spicier with jalapeño or chipotle pepper.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I make the meatballs in advance?

Yes. You can prepare them a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator. Reheat them just before serving.

2. Can I freeze the meatballs?

Absolutely. Let them cool completely and freeze for up to 3 months.

3. What other sauces go well with these?

Honey Mustard Mania Zero or Sticky Korean Kiss Zero also pair excellently with these meatballs.

4. Can I make this recipe with mixed beef and pork?

Yes, you can. The flavor will be a bit milder and the meatballs will stay extra juicy.

5. What should I serve with it?

Coleslaw, sweet potato fries, potato wedges or a fresh cucumber salad go perfectly with it.