Enjoy the ultimate crossover of Italian sub and smash burger—crispy edges, melty cheese, and saucy bites in every sandwich!
Total Time:30 minutes
Ingredients
1 lb ground beef
1 lb ground pork
½ cup seasoned Italian breadcrumbs
1 tbsp salt-pepper-garlic-powder blend
1 tbsp smoky BBQ seasoning
2 large eggs
½ cup marinara sauce, warmed
½ cup shredded Parmesan cheese
4 oz fresh mozzarella, sliced or shredded
4 brioche burger buns, split and lightly toasted
Olive oil or cooking spray, for griddle
Instructions
Mix the meatball base. In a bowl, gently combine beef, pork, breadcrumbs, eggs, salt-pepper-garlic blend, and BBQ seasoning—don’t overwork.
Shape meatballs. Form the mixture into 2–3 oz balls and set aside.
Heat and oil. Preheat your griddle or cast-iron skillet over medium-high until it shimmers; lightly coat with oil.
Smash and sear. Place meatballs on the hot surface. Using a heavy spatula or burger press, smash each one into a thin patty. Hold for 10–15 seconds to set the crust, then cook for 1–2 minutes until deeply browned.
Flip and sauce. Flip each patty. Immediately spoon ~2 tbsp marinara onto each, sprinkle with Parmesan, then top with mozzarella. Cover the griddle (or tent with foil) to let the cheese melt.
Toast the buns. While cheese melts, butter cut sides of the buns and place them cut-side down on the griddle for about 30 seconds, until golden.
Assemble burgers. Spread a thin layer of marinara on each bottom bun, top with a cheesy meatball patty, then finish with the top bun. Press gently and serve immediately.
