Savor the timeless comfort of a "Vegetarian Classic Meatball Sandwich"βa wholesome twist on the beloved Italian-American classic. This hearty recipe swaps traditional meatballs for a flavorful lentil-based alternative, seasoned with garlic, Italian herbs, Parmesan cheese, and fresh parsley for a satisfying bite. Perfectly cooked and simmered in marinara sauce, these tender vegetarian meatballs are nestled in toasted sub rolls and crowned with melty provolone cheese for the ultimate indulgence. Ready in just under an hour, this meat-free dish is packed with protein and brimming with bold flavors, making it a crowd-pleasing option for vegetarians and meat-lovers alike. Whether itβs a cozy dinner or a midday craving, this sandwich is your go-to recipe for a satisfying and delicious meal!
Preheat your oven to 375Β°F (190Β°C).
In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked brown lentils, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, beaten egg, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, chopped parsley, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly until the mixture is firm enough to form balls.
Using your hands, form the mixture into small balls, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter.
Heat olive oil in a large frying pan over medium heat. Add the lentil meatballs and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
Transfer the browned meatballs to a baking dish and cover them with marinara sauce.
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, until the meatballs are heated through and the sauce is bubbling.
While the meatballs are baking, cut the sub rolls open and toast them lightly in the oven or a toaster oven until golden brown.
Once the meatballs are ready, place 3-4 meatballs along with some sauce into each sub roll.
Add a slice of provolone cheese on top of the meatballs in each sandwich.
Place the assembled sandwiches back in the oven for a few minutes until the cheese has melted.
Serve hot and enjoy your Vegetarian Classic Meatball Sandwich.
Calories |
2050 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 68.2 g | 87% | |
| Saturated Fat | 17.1 g | 86% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 2.7 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 221 mg | 74% | |
| Sodium | 4852 mg | 211% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 281.2 g | 102% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 30.3 g | 108% | |
| Total Sugars | 33.4 g | ||
| Protein | 83.3 g | 167% | |
| Vitamin D | 1.0 mcg | 5% | |
| Calcium | 677 mg | 52% | |
| Iron | 20.2 mg | 112% | |
| Potassium | 1181 mg | 25% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.