Jul 14 2026
RestaurantsBellaBravaHousemade Meatball Grinder Recipe

Housemade Meatball Grinder Recipe

Inspired by BellaBrava
Time1h
Serves2

Pomodoro sauce, fontina, pecorino, torn basil.

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Ingredients

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Meatballs

Grinder Assembly

Method

Meatball Preparation

  1. 1

    Mix the Meatball Ingredients

    In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, grated parmesan cheese, egg, minced garlic, chopped parsley, salt, and black pepper. Mix until fully combined but do not overmix.

  2. 2

    Shape the Meatballs

    Using your hands, shape the mixture into 12 equal-sized meatballs, about 1.5 inches in diameter.

  3. 3

    Cook the Meatballs

    In a large skillet over medium heat, add a bit of olive oil. Once hot, add the meatballs and cook until browned on all sides, about 7-10 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.

Pomodoro Sauce Preparation

  1. 4

    Sauté the Onions and Garlic

    In the same skillet used for the meatballs, add olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion and sauté until soft, about 5 minutes. Add minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute.

  2. 5

    Add Tomatoes and Seasonings

    Add the canned crushed tomatoes, salt, black pepper, dried oregano, and sugar to the skillet. Stir to combine and simmer for 10 minutes.

  3. 6

    Finish the Sauce

    Stir in the torn basil leaves and simmer for another 5 minutes. Adjust seasoning to taste.

Grinder Assembly

  1. 7

    Preheat the Oven

    Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

  2. 8

    Assemble the Grinder

    Slice the sub rolls in half lengthwise. On each roll, place 3 meatballs, spoon over pomodoro sauce, and sprinkle with fontina and pecorino cheese.

  3. 9

    Bake the Grinder

    Place the assembled grinders on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

  4. 10

    Garnish and Serve

    Remove from the oven, sprinkle with additional torn basil, and serve hot.

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