Air-Fryer Smoky Paprika Beef Meatball Subs

AF-200 Crew Recipe

Air-Fryer Smoky Paprika Beef Meatball Subs

Air-fryer smoky paprika beef meatball subs with juicy beef, bold seasoning, crisp edges and no dry dinner nonsense.

Air-Fryer Smoky Paprika Beef Meatball Subs
Air-Fryer Smoky Paprika Beef Meatball Subs preparation stage

You’ll Need

500g beef mince
2 soft sub rolls
1 egg
50g breadcrumbs
50g grated parmesan, 2 cloves garlic, grated
1 tsp smoked paprika, 1 tsp dried oregano, 1 tsp sea salt, ½ tsp black pepper


Marinara Sauce
400g chopped tomatoes
1 tbsp tomato purée, 1 small onion, finely diced
2 cloves garlic, sliced thin, 1 tsp dried oregano, 1 tsp sugar, 1 tbsp olive oil


To Finish
100g grated mozzarella
Extra parmesan
Fresh parsley


Optional but Dangerous
Chilli flakes
Garlic mayo
Extra cheese

Method

Preheat your air fryer to 190°C.

In a bowl combine the beef mince, egg, breadcrumbs, parmesan, garlic, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and black pepper.

Mix thoroughly and form into 12 meatballs.

Place the meatballs into the air fryer basket.

Air fry at 190°C for 10–12 minutes until lightly browned.

Meanwhile add the olive oil, onion, garlic, chopped tomatoes, tomato purée, oregano, sugar, salt, and black pepper to a foil tray or heatproof dish.

Air fry the sauce at 180°C for 6–8 minutes until bubbling gently.

Add the cooked meatballs to the marinara sauce and coat thoroughly.

Return to the air fryer for another 8–10 minutes until the sauce thickens and the meatballs are fully cooked.

Warm the sub rolls for 1–2 minutes.

Fill each roll with the meatballs and plenty of sauce.

Top generously with mozzarella and parmesan.

Return to the air fryer for 2–3 minutes until the cheese melts and bubbles.

Finish with fresh parsley and chilli flakes if using.

Serve immediately while everything is still gloriously molten.

Lad Tip: A proper meatball sub should require at least three napkins and a complete lack of self-respect. If you manage to eat it neatly, you've built it wrong.

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