Meatball Sandwich with Homemade Marinara

My fiance was working all last week in Chicago, so when he came home I wanted to treat him with a one of the meals I always watch him order at restaurants...The Meatball Sammie!  

I was inspired by something I saw on Diners, Drive In, and Dives.  The recipe seemed simple enough, so I gave it a few of my own twists.  The result was a success, and we had plenty left over so that my fiance could make another sandwich the next day. 

Doesn't it look yummy?  

For the left overs I got a bag of sweet Hawaiian dinner rolls to make individual sliders.  Do whatever makes you happy!  

Meatball Sandwich with Homemade Marinara

Marinara: 

1 24 oz. can crushed tomatoes
8 cloves garlic
1tsp. crushed red pepper
1 tbsp. brown sugar  
salt and pepper
olive oil

In sauce pan heat 1 tbs. olive oil then saute the garlic and crushed red pepper on low for about a minute.  Add crushed tomatoes and brown sugar.  Add salt and pepper to taste.  Turn down heat and let simmer for one hour. 

Meatballs:

1 lb. lean ground beef 
1/ 2 white onion
2 cloves garlic
1 cup bread crumbs
1 cup ricotta cheese (secret ingredient-keeps meatballs moist)
1 egg 
1/2 tbsp. thyme
1/2 tbsp. oregano
1 tbsp. olive oil 

Mince onion and garlic.  Add everything to the bowl and form into 2 inch meatballs.  Put in fridge to let flavors come together while the marinara is simmering. 

Preheat oven to 400 degrees.  

In large cast iron skillet heat olive oil on medium.  Do not let the pan get too hot.  It will burn the meatballs.  Place each meatball in the skillet and let them cook 8 - 10 minutes.  When you want to turn the meatball, just give the skillet a jiggle with your wrist.  

Finish the meatballs in the oven.  Place them in the skillet into the oven and let cook 4-6 minutes.  

Remove from the oven and top half of the marinara on the meatballs and let the flavors come together. 

Place the meatballs on your favorite bread.  Top with the marinara, fresh parmesan cheese, and sprinkle it with fresh basil!  

It's a meal made in Man Cave heaven!