Jul 14 2026
RestaurantsFlora Jean'sMeatball Sub Recipe

Meatball Sub Recipe

Inspired by Flora Jean's
Time1h
Serves4

eggplant meatballs | marinara | mozzarella | basil house garlic parmesan baguette | french fries

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Ingredients

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Meatballs

Marinara Sauce

Sub Assembly

Method

Meatballs

  1. 1

    Prepare the Eggplant

    Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut the eggplant in half, sprinkle with salt, and let it sit for 15 minutes to draw out moisture. Rinse and pat dry.

  2. 2

    Roast the Eggplant

    Place the eggplant halves cut-side down on a baking sheet and roast for 25-30 minutes until soft. Remove from the oven and let cool.

  3. 3

    Mix the Meatball Ingredients

    In a bowl, scoop out the flesh of the roasted eggplant and mash it. Add breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, minced garlic, egg, chopped basil, salt, and black pepper. Mix until combined.

  4. 4

    Form and Bake the Meatballs

    Shape the mixture into meatballs (about 1.5 inches in diameter) and place them on a baking sheet. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20 minutes, turning halfway through.

Marinara Sauce

  1. 5

    Sauté Garlic

    In a saucepan over medium heat, add olive oil and minced garlic. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

  2. 6

    Cook the Sauce

    Add crushed tomatoes, oregano, salt, and pepper to the saucepan. Simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Sub Assembly

  1. 7

    Prepare the Baguette

    Slice the baguette lengthwise, leaving one edge intact to create a hinge.

  2. 8

    Assemble the Sub

    Layer the meatballs inside the baguette, pour marinara sauce over them, and top with mozzarella cheese and fresh basil.

  3. 9

    Toast the Sub

    Place the assembled sub in a preheated oven (400°F/200°C) for 5-10 minutes until the cheese melts.

  4. 10

    Prepare French Fries

    Cook French fries according to package instructions (bake or fry).

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