This mouth-watering meatball sandwich has a bit of an identity crisis. In New York, we know it as a “hero”: that foot-long super sandwich stuffed with meat and cheese, sometimes sliced to share at tailgating parties. In the midwest, the very same sandwich is only referred to as a “sub”. Regardless of its name, Keith’s turkey meatball hero, served on a crunchy French baguette, is one big sandwich worth trying.
Hero, Sub, Poor Boy, Grinder: I am honestly confused by all this regional lingo. A big meaty sandwich is one worth eating, no matter what you call it. With March Madness in full swing and opening day right around the corner, we had a hankering for a foot long sandwich to share. Keith is never one to disappoint. He crafted some savory meatballs out of lean ground turkey, and served them on a freshly baked French baguette, drizzled with tomato and alfredo sauce. Game day could not get more delicious.
I love the simplicity of this turkey meatball hero. It is perfect for those meat-loving, sporty types who want a “real sandwich” when tailgating, but it also satisfies those with a more distinguished palate. We ultimately called it a “hero”, but I also call it delicious.
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 2 slices whole wheat bread
- 2 eggs
- ½ C diced banana peppers
- ½ C finely ground pistachios
- ¼ C milk
- 1 tbsp ground Dijon mustard
- 1 clove garlic
- ¼ c olive oil
- Chives
- 3 cups tomato sauce
- 2 8" French baguettes
- Tear bread into small pieces and place in medium bowl. Cover with milk.
- In a separate larger bowl, mix together turkey, eggs, diced peppers, pistachios and mustard.
- Mix in milk soaked bread and remaining milk. Mix until well combined.
- Roll into 2 inch balls, place on plate and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes
- In large sauté pan, heat olive oil over medium high heat,
- Place meatballs in pan and sauté, turning frequently until well browned.
- Add tomato sauce, cover and cook over medium heat for 20 minutes.
- Serve on sliced baguettes and add your favorite toppings, cheese, Alfredo sauce or fresh herbs.
Thus is the perfect thing for a tail gate party or just the boots having a sports day. Love the turkey lite, flavored just right , a little touch of a marinara Alfredo, rich, creamy, and the melted cheeses makes the icing on the cake. I am salivating as I write this, now a mad scramble for something to eat. Great post!
Happy Cooking.
Loreto, you are so kind to us!! Glad you liked the post!!
Okay, so in my neck of the woods, this is a sub. But I think no matter where you’re from, a sandwich this delicious is a hero. Must try this soon!
thanks Karly!! We are so glad you liked our post! We really appreciate your feedback!!
Whatever you call it, it looks SO DELICIOUS. I now know what I am going to make for lunch tomorrow. LOVE LOVE LOVE
Superman cooks a hero! I couldn’t resist the word play (or the sandwich). GREG
haha! Believe it or not we never thought of this! Thanks for your comments (and your wit) Greg!!