Inspired by: @veganonthesavannah
Craving a classic, hearty meatball sub but looking for a delicious, plant-based alternative? You've come to the right place! This recipe delivers all the savory, saucy goodness you love in a traditional meatball sub, entirely vegan and made right in your own kitchen. It's the perfect solution for a satisfying weeknight dinner, a fun family meal, or a game-day treat that will impress even the most devoted comfort food enthusiasts.
This recipe takes inspiration from the "insanely delicious" vegan meatball sub shared by @veganonthesavannah, a highlight from a special World Vegan Month collaboration menu at The Vegan Chef Sandton and Infinite Cafe Africa. While the original was a restaurant masterpiece, we've crafted a homemade version that’s just as good, proving that compassionate eating doesn't mean compromising on flavor or satisfaction. Get ready to sink your teeth into pure plant-based bliss!
What is a Vegan Meatball Sub?
A vegan meatball sub is a plant-based twist on the beloved Italian-American sandwich. Instead of traditional meat, the "meatballs" are crafted from wholesome ingredients like mushrooms, chickpeas, and oats, seasoned to perfection to achieve a rich, savory flavor and satisfying texture. These plant-based meatballs are simmered in a robust marinara or pasta sauce, then piled into toasted sub rolls and topped with gooey, melted vegan mozzarella. It's comfort food at its finest, proving that deliciousness knows no bounds, especially when it's made with plants!
Recipe: Easy Homemade Vegan Meatball Sub
This recipe yields 4 generous servings and takes about 45 minutes from start to finish, making it ideal for a busy weeknight.
Yields
4 servings
Prep time
20 minutes
Cook time
25 minutes
Equipment
- Large skillet
- Food processor (optional, for finely chopping mushrooms)
- Baking sheet
- Large pot or saucepan
- Mixing bowl
Ingredients
For the Vegan Meatballs:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 8 oz (225g) mushrooms, finely chopped
- 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, rinsed and drained
- 1/2 cup oats (quick or rolled)
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon himalayan salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For Assembly:
- 4 sub rolls or hoagie buns
- 2 cups pasta sauce (your favorite marinara)
- 1 cup vegan mozzarella shreds
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Mushrooms: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and are browned, about 8-10 minutes. This step is crucial for flavor and texture.
- Combine Meatball Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, mash the rinsed and drained chickpeas with a fork or potato masher until mostly smooth but still with some texture. Add the cooked mushrooms, oats, tomato paste, garlic powder, onion powder, italian seasoning, himalayan salt, and black pepper. Mix everything thoroughly until well combined.
- Form Meatballs: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Roll the mixture into approximately 12-16 golf-ball-sized "meatballs."
- Bake Meatballs: Place the meatballs on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and firm.
- Simmer in Sauce: While the meatballs are baking, heat the pasta sauce in a large pot or saucepan over medium-low heat. Once the meatballs are baked, gently add them to the simmering sauce and let them cook for at least 5-10 minutes to absorb the flavors.
- Assemble Subs: Slice the sub rolls lengthwise, being careful not to cut all the way through. Lightly toast the buns in the oven or a toaster oven for a few minutes until golden.
- Fill and Serve: Generously fill each toasted roll with the saucy vegan meatballs. Top with vegan mozzarella shreds and return to the oven for 3-5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley if desired.
- Enjoy! Serve immediately and savor every bite of this hearty and delicious plant-based comfort food.
Variations and Adaptations
- Gluten-Free: Ensure your sub rolls are gluten-free, and use certified gluten-free oats.
- Spice It Up: Add a pinch of chili flakes or a dash of sriracha to your meatball mixture or pasta sauce for a fiery kick.
- Alternative "Meat": Short on time? You can use a store-bought vegan ground meat alternative (like Beyond Meat's Beyond Beef or similar) to form the meatballs. Just mix with seasonings and bake as directed.
- Cheesy Choices: Experiment with different vegan cheeses like provolone slices, pepper jack, or a blend of your favorites for varied flavor.
- Meatball Pasta: Skip the sub rolls and serve these delicious vegan meatballs over your favorite pasta for a comforting pasta dish.
Tips & Hacks for the Perfect Vegan Meatball Sub
- Don't Skimp on Squeezing Mushrooms: After cooking, ensure you squeeze out as much moisture as possible from the mushrooms. This prevents soggy meatballs and concentrates their umami flavor.
- Batch Cook Meatballs: Make a double batch of vegan meatballs and freeze half for a quick meal later. Simply thaw and simmer in sauce when you're ready.
- Toast Your Rolls: Toasting the sub rolls prevents them from getting soggy from the sauce and adds a delightful crunch, elevating the entire sandwich experience.
- Marinara Matters: While store-bought pasta sauce is convenient, using a high-quality marinara or even making your own can significantly enhance the flavor of your sub.
Ready to create your own irresistible vegan meatball sub? Dive into this recipe and enjoy a fulfilling, flavorful plant-based meal.
Related Articles
- Looking for more satisfying vegan meals? Check out our recipe for Red Lentil Pasta and Jackfruit Meatballs Recipe.
- If you love easy comfort food, you'll adore this Easy Creamy Vegan Mac and Cheese with Broccoli & Greens.
- For another fantastic sandwich idea, try the Vegan BLT Tempeh Sandwich - Smoky, Savory and Delicious!.
- Explore more hearty plant-based options with our Healthy Vegan Burger Patties recipe.
- Discover the joys of Italian-inspired vegan cooking with Easy Homemade Vegan Lasagna with Tofu Ricotta.
Share your culinary creations with the abillion community! Tag us and show off your homemade vegan meatball subs. We love seeing your delicious plant-based meals!
