Lean Meatball Subs

Lean Ground Beef is formed into meatballs before a quick cook in the oven and a dip in pasta sauce. Enjoy the classic meatballs in a crusty Italian roll for a family-friendly meal!

Ingredients

• 1 pound Ground Beef (93% lean or leaner)
• 1/4 cup seasoned dry bread crumbs
• 2 egg whites or 1 egg, beaten
• 2 tablespoons water
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/8 teaspoon pepper
• 2 cups heart healthy or regular pasta sauce
• 4 crusty Italian bread rolls (5 to 6-inches each), split
• 4 tablespoons giardiniera, drained (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F. Combine Ground Beef, bread crumbs, egg whites, water, salt and pepper in large bowl, mixing lightly but thoroughly. Shape into twelve 2-inch meatballs. Place on rack in broiler pan that has been sprayed with cooking spray. Bake in 400°F oven 18 to 20 minutes.

   Cook's Tip: Cooking times are for fresh or thoroughly thawed ground beef. Ground beef should be cooked to an internal temperature of 160°F. Color is not a reliable indicator of ground beef doneness.

2. Heat pasta sauce according to package directions in medium saucepan. Add hot cooked meatballs to pasta sauce; stir to coat evenly. Divide meatballs and sauce evenly among rolls. Top evenly with giardinera.

   Cook's Tip: Giardiniera is a mixture of vegetables, traditionally peppers, carrots, celery and onions, pickled in a white or red vinegar and oil mixture. It is sold in mild or hot varieties.

• Test Kitchen Tips Use a gentle touch with ground beef. Over-mixing will result in burgers, meatballs or meatloaves with a firm texture.