The Best Sauce for Meatball Subs (Top 10 Sauces To Try)

When it comes to a classic sandwich like a meatball sub, the sauce can make or break the dish.

Finding the best sauce for meatball subs is crucial to enhancing the flavor, texture, and overall enjoyment of this popular meal.

With so many options out there, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one.

That’s why we’ve compiled a list of the top 10 sauces to try, as well as 5 alternative options, to help you elevate your meatball sub game.

Read Also:

• The 10 Best Cheeses for Meatball Subs
• 10 Best Breads for Meatball Subs

From traditional marinara to tangy BBQ and everything in between, we’ve got you covered.

So sit back, relax, and let’s dive into the wonderful world of meatball sub sauces!

Why Sauce Is Important for Meatball Subs

When it comes to making a great meatball sub, the sauce plays a critical role. Here are three reasons why:

• Enhances flavor and texture: The right sauce can take a good meatball sub and turn it into a great one. It can bring out the flavors of the meat and complement the other ingredients in the sandwich. Additionally, the texture of the sauce can provide a contrast to the soft bread and tender meatballs, adding another layer of enjoyment to each bite.
• Adds moisture and juiciness to the sandwich: One of the biggest challenges with making meatball subs is keeping them from becoming dry. A delicious sauce can solve this problem by adding moisture and juiciness to the sandwich. This makes it easier to eat and more enjoyable overall.
• Complements the ingredients of the dish: A well-chosen sauce can complement the flavors of the meatballs, cheese, and other toppings in the sandwich. For example, a spicy sauce can balance the richness of the cheese, while a tangy sauce can cut through the meat’s fattiness. This balance of flavors is what makes a meatball sub so satisfying.

The 10 Best Sauces for Meatball Subs

Now that we’ve established why sauce is important for meatball subs, let’s dive into the 10 best sauces to try. From classic marinara to creative twists on traditional favorites, there’s something for everyone on this list.

Marinara sauce

Marinara is the classic choice for meatball subs. Made with tomatoes, garlic, and herbs, this sauce is savory, slightly sweet, and perfect for pairing with meatballs.

Alfredo sauce

For a rich and creamy option, Alfredo sauce is a great choice. Made with butter, cream, and Parmesan cheese, this sauce is decadent and delicious.

Pesto sauce

If you’re looking for something with a little more bite, try pesto sauce. Made with fresh basil, pine nuts, garlic, and Parmesan cheese, this sauce is flavorful and bright.

BBQ sauce

For a tangy, sweet, and smoky flavor, BBQ sauce is a great option. It pairs especially well with meatballs that have been cooked on the grill.

Sriracha mayo sauce

If you like a little spice in your sandwich, try sriracha mayo sauce. Made with mayonnaise, sriracha, and lime juice, this sauce is spicy, tangy, and perfect for meatball subs.

Honey mustard sauce

For a sweet and tangy option, try honey mustard sauce. Made with honey, Dijon mustard, and mayonnaise, this sauce is a great complement to meatballs.

Horseradish cream sauce

For a zesty and slightly spicy option, try horseradish cream sauce. Made with sour cream, horseradish, and lemon juice, this sauce adds a kick to any meatball sub.

Chipotle aioli sauce

For a smoky and slightly spicy option, try chipotle aioli sauce. Made with mayonnaise, chipotle peppers, and garlic, this sauce is flavorful and versatile.

Garlic aioli sauce

For a simple and classic option, try garlic aioli sauce. Made with mayonnaise, garlic, and lemon juice, this sauce is creamy, tangy, and perfect for meatball subs.

Balsamic glaze sauce

For a sweet and tangy option, try balsamic glaze sauce. Made with balsamic vinegar and sugar, this sauce is thick and syrupy, and adds a unique flavor to meatball subs.

5 Alternative Sauces for Meatball Subs

If you’re feeling adventurous, or if you just want to mix things up, here are five alternative sauces to try on your meatball sub:

Teriyaki sauce

For a sweet and savory option, try teriyaki sauce. Made with soy sauce, sugar, and ginger, this sauce pairs well with meatballs and adds a Japanese twist to the sandwich.

Chimichurri sauce

For a fresh and herbaceous option, try chimichurri sauce. Made with parsley, garlic, and olive oil, this sauce is tangy and flavorful.

Peanut sauce

For an Asian-inspired option, try peanut sauce. Made with peanut butter, soy sauce, and chili flakes, this sauce is nutty, slightly sweet, and slightly spicy.

Tzatziki sauce

For a Mediterranean twist, try tzatziki sauce. Made with yogurt, cucumber, and dill, this sauce is refreshing and pairs well with meatballs.

Salsa verde sauce

For a bright and tangy option, try salsa verde sauce. Made with tomatillos, jalapenos, and cilantro, this sauce is a great way to add some heat and flavor to your meatball sub.

How To Pick The Right Sauce for Meatball Subs

With so many options out there, it can be overwhelming to choose the right sauce for your meatball sub. Here are a few factors to consider when making your decision:

• Consider the flavor profile of the meatballs. The sauce should complement the flavors of the meatballs rather than overpower them. If your meatballs are spicy, for example, you might want to choose a milder sauce to balance them out.
• Think about the bread and toppings. The sauce should also complement the bread and toppings in the sandwich. If you have a lot of cheese or veggies in your sub, you might want to choose a sauce that pairs well with those flavors.
• Match the sauce to the occasion. Finally, consider the occasion when choosing your sauce. If you’re making meatball subs for a casual lunch, you might want to choose a more traditional sauce like marinara. If you’re making them for a party, you might want to choose a more creative option like chipotle aioli.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the sauce is a crucial component of a great meatball sub. Whether you prefer classic marinara or something more adventurous like chimichurri, there’s a sauce out there to suit your tastes.

By considering the flavor profile of the meatballs, the bread and toppings, and the occasion, you can choose the perfect sauce to make your meatball sub even more delicious.