Oven Baked Vegan Meatball Subs Recipe

These Oven Baked Vegan Meatball Subs are a hearty, satisfying, and delicious meal that’s perfect for lunch or dinner. With savory vegan meatballs made from chickpeas and breadcrumbs, topped with marinara sauce and vegan cheese, they’re the ultimate comfort food! Baked in the oven for a crispy finish, these meatball subs are easy to make and full of flavor.

Oven Baked Vegan Meatball Subs Recipe

Serves: 4
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes

Ingredients:

For the Vegan Meatballs:

1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
1/2 cup breadcrumbs (use gluten-free if needed)
1/4 cup ground flaxseeds + 1/4 cup water (flax egg)
1/4 cup nutritional yeast
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (or 1 tablespoon dried parsley)
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper, to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil (for baking)

For the Subs:

4 sub rolls or hoagie buns (vegan)
1 cup marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
1 cup vegan mozzarella cheese (shredded)
Fresh basil leaves (optional, for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. Make the Vegan Meatballs:

In a food processor, combine the chickpeas, breadcrumbs, flaxseed mixture (flax + water), nutritional yeast, parsley, oregano, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
Pulse until the mixture comes together into a dough-like consistency. If the mixture is too wet, add a bit more breadcrumbs. If it’s too dry, add a tablespoon of water.
Roll the mixture into about 12-14 small meatballs, using your hands or a spoon.

3. Bake the Meatballs:

Place the meatballs onto the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil and bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, flipping them halfway through until they are golden brown and firm.

4. Prepare the Subs:

While the meatballs are baking, slice your sub rolls and heat the marinara sauce in a saucepan over low heat.
Once the meatballs are done, carefully place them into the rolls. Spoon marinara sauce over the meatballs and top with shredded vegan mozzarella cheese.

5. Bake the Subs:

Place the assembled subs back on the baking sheet and bake in the oven for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

6. Serve:

Remove from the oven and top with fresh basil leaves for a burst of color and flavor.
Serve immediately and enjoy your warm, comforting Oven Baked Vegan Meatball Subs!

Tips for the Best Vegan Meatball Subs:

Make Ahead: You can prepare the meatballs in advance and freeze them for later use. Simply bake them, let them cool, and freeze. When ready to serve, heat them up in the oven with marinara sauce and cheese.
Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and gluten-free buns to make these meatball subs completely gluten-free.
Add Veggies: Feel free to load your subs with sautéed mushrooms, onions, or bell peppers for extra flavor and nutrition.
Vegan Cheese Variations: If you prefer a different vegan cheese, feel free to use vegan provolone or cheddar for a different flavor.

Why You’ll Love These Vegan Meatball Subs:

Comforting and Hearty: With a rich marinara sauce and gooey vegan cheese, these subs hit the spot when you’re craving something warm and filling.
Customizable: Feel free to load your sub with extra veggies or switch up the seasonings in the meatballs to suit your taste.
Perfect for Meal Prep: Make the meatballs in advance and have a delicious, easy meal ready to go when you need it.

These Oven Baked Vegan Meatball Subs are a delicious and satisfying meal that will please both vegans and non-vegans alike. Packed with flavor and comfort, they make the perfect addition to your vegan recipe collection!