Sweet & Spicy Meatballs from Firehouse Subs feature tender, seasoned meatballs tossed in a bold sweet and spicy sauce, nestled in a toasted sub roll and topped with melted provolone cheese, offering a savory and zesty flavor experience with a satisfying, warm texture.
Equipments
- Oven or toaster oven
- Mixing bowl
- Saucepan
- Baking sheet
- Tongs or spatula
- Cheese slicer or knife
- Ladle or spoon
- Cutting board
- Bread knife
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1/2 lb (225g) ground pork
- 1/2 cup plain breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons minced onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1/2 cup sweet chili sauce
- 2 tablespoons hot sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
- 4 sub rolls
- 8 slices provolone cheese
- Butter (for toasting rolls)
Ground beef and ground pork combine to create the perfect texture and flavor for the meatballs, while plain breadcrumbs help bind the mixture and keep it tender. Grated Parmesan cheese adds a savory depth, and the addition of Italian seasoning with crushed red pepper flakes provides a well-rounded spice profile. Using a blend of marinara, sweet chili, and hot sauce creates the signature sweet and spicy sauce that defines this dish. Toasting the sub rolls with butter ensures a crispy exterior that holds up well against the juicy meatballs and melted provolone cheese. Your Sweet & Spicy Meatball from Firehouse Subs copycat menu will capture the bold flavors and satisfying texture that fans love.
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, egg, onion, garlic, milk, salt, black pepper, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes.
- Mix until just combined; do not overmix.
- Form mixture into golf ball-sized meatballs.
- Place meatballs on a baking sheet.
- Bake for 15-18 minutes, until cooked through.
- While meatballs bake, heat marinara sauce, sweet chili sauce, and hot sauce in a saucepan over medium heat.
- Stir to combine and simmer until warmed through.
- Add cooked meatballs to sauce and toss to coat.
- Slice sub rolls and spread cut sides with butter.
- Toast rolls in oven or toaster oven until golden.
- Place sauced meatballs into toasted rolls.
- Top with provolone cheese slices.
- Return subs to oven to melt cheese, about 2-3 minutes.
- Serve warm.
Substitution
Sweet & Spicy Meatballs from Firehouse Subs copycat menu can be easily customized based on your pantry staples and taste preferences. If ground pork is unavailable, you can substitute with all beef or a mix of beef and ground turkey for a leaner option. For a dairy-free version, replace provolone cheese with a plant-based cheese or simply omit it while maintaining the bold sauce flavors. When marinara sauce isn't on hand, a simple tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes seasoned with Italian herbs will work well. Toast your sub rolls with butter or olive oil to achieve a crisp texture that complements the juicy meatballs and melty cheese perfectly.
Tips
Make sure not to overmix the meatball mixture; gently combining ingredients preserves tenderness. Use a meat thermometer to check the meatballs reach an internal temperature of 160degF (71degC) for safe consumption. Toast the sub rolls just until golden to avoid sogginess when adding sauced meatballs. When melting the provolone cheese, watch closely to prevent over-melting or burning, giving your Sweet & Spicy Meatballs the perfect finish.
Nutritions
Sweet & Spicy Meatballs from Firehouse Subs provide a hearty source of protein from the combination of ground beef and pork, essential for muscle repair and energy. The inclusion of Parmesan cheese and provolone adds calcium and vitamin D, supporting bone health. The sweet chili sauce and hot sauce contribute antioxidants and capsaicin, which may aid metabolism. Your meal offers balanced macronutrients but should be enjoyed in moderation due to its sodium and fat content from processed cheeses and meats.
Storage
Store leftover Sweet & Spicy Meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days to maintain freshness and flavor. For longer storage, place the meatballs and sauce separately in freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2-3 months, allowing you to reheat in the oven or microwave when needed. When reheating, ensure the meatballs are heated thoroughly to retain their tender texture and the sauce stays flavorful for your next meal.
Variation or Alternatives
For a variation, substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option without sacrificing flavor in your Sweet & Spicy Meatballs. You can swap provolone cheese with mozzarella or pepper jack for a creamier or spicier cheese finish. Consider using hoagie rolls or brioche buns instead of sub rolls for a softer or richer sandwich base. To enhance the sauce, add a splash of balsamic vinegar or a teaspoon of honey to balance the sweet and spicy notes further.
Allergies
Sweet & Spicy Meatballs from Firehouse Subs contain common allergens such as dairy from provolone cheese and Parmesan, eggs in the meatball mixture, and wheat in the breadcrumbs and sub rolls. If you have allergies to milk, eggs, or gluten, it is important to check with the restaurant or consider alternatives to avoid adverse reactions. Your safety can be ensured by confirming ingredient details with Firehouse Subs before ordering this sandwich.
Why this recipe?
The Sweet & Spicy Meatball sandwich from Firehouse Subs captivates with its harmonious blend of tangy sweetness and bold spices, creating a unique flavor profile that stands out among typical deli offerings. Featuring tender meatballs smothered in a signature sauce balanced by zesty peppers and melted cheese, this sandwich delivers a satisfying and memorable taste experience. Your desire to replicate this menu item at home stems from its perfect mix of comfort food with an exciting twist, making it a fun and rewarding culinary challenge. Trying the copycat recipe allows you to enjoy this signature Firehouse Subs flavor anytime, tailored to your personal spice preference and ingredient quality.