Are you craving a mouthwatering, plant-based twist on the classic meatball sub? If so, “Vegan Meatball Subs with Cheese Sauce near me” may be exactly what you need to satisfy your hunger with a delicious combination of flavors and textures that will make your taste buds dance. Whether you’re a long-time vegan or just looking to explore plant-based options, these subs offer a delicious and indulgent way to enjoy a comfort food classic—without the meat.
In recent years, the demand for vegan food options has exploded. The days of bland and uninspired plant-based meals are long gone. Today, you can find a variety of vegan substitutes that mimic the textures and flavors of traditional animal-based foods, like the hearty and satisfying vegan meatball sub. When paired with a rich, melty cheese sauce, these subs become an irresistible combination of flavors that rival their non-vegan counterparts. This guide will take you through everything you need to know about these vegan sandwiches, from where to find them to how to make them at home.
Why Vegan Meatball Subs with Cheese Sauce are a Game-Changer
Vegan meatball subs are quickly becoming a favorite for those seeking comfort food with a healthier twist. Gone are the days when “vegan” meant bland or lacking in flavor. Modern plant-based meatballs are crafted using ingredients like lentils, chickpeas, and mushrooms, seasoned to perfection to give that satisfying bite and rich flavor. The addition of vegan cheese sauce brings a creamy, indulgent element to the dish without compromising on taste or texture. These subs are great for lunch, dinner, or any time you need a fulfilling meal with a hearty, savory kick.
If you’re someone who’s looking for convenience without sacrificing flavor, you may wonder where to find vegan meatball subs with cheese sauce near you. Fortunately, the rise in veganism and plant-based diets has led to a surge in vegan-friendly restaurants, fast-casual eateries, and even local delis offering plant-based versions of traditional favorites. With vegan meatball subs, it’s easier than ever to indulge without feeling like you’re missing out on anything.
How Vegan Meatballs are Made: The Heart of the Sub
Vegan meatballs are a vital part of this dish, offering a rich and hearty texture that holds up well in a sandwich. Unlike traditional meatballs, which are typically made from ground beef or pork, vegan meatballs are made from plant-based ingredients that provide both protein and flavor. The primary ingredients in vegan meatballs often include lentils, chickpeas, mushrooms, tofu, or a combination of these. These ingredients are seasoned and shaped into balls, then baked or fried for a satisfying crispy exterior and a soft, flavorful interior.
Lentils are a popular choice for vegan meatballs because they are rich in protein, fiber, and minerals, making them a nutritious and filling ingredient. Chickpeas, on the other hand, have a subtle sweetness and creamy texture when cooked, which makes them ideal for adding richness and body to the meatball. Mushrooms bring an earthy flavor and umami, often used to give the meatballs a more savory, “meaty” taste that mimics the depth of flavor in traditional meatballs.
The key to making vegan meatballs successful is in the seasoning. Ingredients like garlic, onion, Italian seasoning, and nutritional yeast help enhance the flavor and bring depth to the dish. Vegan meatballs are versatile and can be tailored to suit your personal taste, whether you prefer a more spicy or mild flavor profile.
Vegan Cheese Sauce: A Creamy and Delicious Addition
No meatball sub is complete without a gooey, melty cheese sauce. When you’re making a vegan version, it’s essential to find or create a cheese sauce that mimics the richness and creaminess of dairy-based cheese. Thankfully, there are a variety of plant-based cheese sauces that are just as indulgent and flavorful as their dairy counterparts. These sauces are typically made from ingredients like cashews, nutritional yeast, almond milk, and lemon juice, providing a creamy, tangy base that pairs perfectly with the vegan meatballs.
Cashews are often the star ingredient in vegan cheese sauces, as they provide a rich and creamy texture when blended. Nutritional yeast is another common ingredient that imparts a cheesy, umami flavor without using any dairy. By combining these ingredients, you can create a luscious cheese sauce that complements the vegan meatballs and ties the entire sub together.
For added flavor and richness, some vegan cheese sauces include a touch of garlic, onion powder, mustard, or turmeric to enhance the depth of flavor. The result is a cheese sauce that’s creamy, flavorful, and melty—just like the real thing!
Where to Find Vegan Meatball Subs with Cheese Sauce Near Me
Now that you know the magic behind vegan meatball subs with cheese sauce, the next question is: where can you find them? Thanks to the growing popularity of plant-based diets and veganism, many restaurants and fast-casual spots have embraced the trend and added vegan options to their menus. Whether you’re looking for a quick bite or a sit-down meal, there are several places you can check out for vegan meatball subs.
Here are some top spots where you can likely find vegan meatball subs with cheese sauce near you:
- Vegan Fast-Casual Chains: National chains like Veggie Grill, Marty’s V Burger, and PLNT Burger offer a variety of vegan options, including delicious vegan meatball subs with cheese sauce. These spots are known for their creative takes on traditional fast food favorites and are often a reliable choice when you’re craving a plant-based sub.
- Local Vegan Restaurants: Many local vegan eateries and cafes have embraced the vegan meatball sub, adding their own unique twist with house-made meatballs and creamy vegan cheese sauce. A quick search on Google or Yelp for “vegan meatball sub near me” can help you uncover hidden gems in your area that specialize in plant-based cuisine.
- Pizza Chains with Vegan Options: Some pizza chains like Blaze Pizza and MOD Pizza have expanded their menus to include vegan meatballs and cheese. While they may not offer a dedicated sub sandwich, these chains often have vegan-friendly bread options and customizable toppings, allowing you to create your own meatball sub with cheese sauce.
- Grocery Stores and Meal Kits: If you prefer to make your own vegan meatball sub at home, you can find pre-made vegan meatballs and plant-based cheese sauce at your local grocery store. Many stores now carry a variety of vegan-friendly products, including frozen vegan meatballs, vegan cheese sauce, and plant-based bread, making it easy to assemble your sub in the comfort of your own kitchen.
How to Make Vegan Meatball Subs with Cheese Sauce at Home
If you’re feeling adventurous and want to create your own vegan meatball subs with cheese sauce, we’ve got you covered with a step-by-step guide.
Ingredients for the Vegan Meatballs:
- 1 cup cooked lentils (or chickpeas, mashed)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (use gluten-free if needed)
- 1/4 cup nutritional yeast
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Vegan Cheese Sauce:
- 1/2 cup raw cashews (soaked in water for at least 4 hours)
- 1/4 cup nutritional yeast
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/2 cup almond milk (or any plant-based milk)
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a food processor, combine the cooked lentils (or chickpeas), breadcrumbs, nutritional yeast, garlic powder, onion powder, soy sauce, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Pulse until everything is well combined and forms a sticky dough-like consistency. If the mixture is too dry, add a bit of water.
- Form the mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter, and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the meatballs are golden brown and crispy on the outside.
- While the meatballs are baking, make the cheese sauce by blending the soaked cashews, nutritional yeast, lemon juice, almond milk, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a high-speed blender until smooth and creamy.
- Once the meatballs are ready, warm the vegan cheese sauce in a small saucepan over low heat.
- To assemble the sub, place the baked vegan meatballs in a sub roll, drizzle with vegan cheese sauce, and top with any additional toppings you like, such as fresh basil, arugula, or sliced tomatoes.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Are vegan meatball subs with cheese sauce healthy? Vegan meatball subs can be a nutritious choice when made with whole-food ingredients like lentils, chickpeas, and vegetables. They provide fiber, protein, and healthy fats. Opting for a vegan cheese sauce made from nuts or cashews also adds beneficial nutrients while keeping the dish dairy-free.
- Where can I find vegan meatball subs near me? You can find vegan meatball subs with cheese sauce at vegan-friendly restaurants, fast-casual chains, pizza places, and even grocery stores offering vegan products. A quick search online or on food delivery apps can help you locate nearby spots that offer this dish.
- Can I make vegan meatball subs with gluten-free ingredients? Yes! You can easily make vegan meatball subs gluten-free by using gluten-free breadcrumbs or oats in the meatballs. Make sure to use gluten-free rolls and check the ingredients of your cheese sauce for any hidden gluten.
- What toppings can I add to my vegan meatball sub? Feel free to get creative with toppings! Fresh herbs like basil or oregano, sautéed onions and peppers, arugula, vegan mayo, or even hot sauce can add extra flavor to your sub.
Conclusion
Vegan meatball subs with cheese sauce are a game-changing way to enjoy a plant-based version of a beloved comfort food. Whether you choose to make them at home or find a restaurant that serves them, these subs are the perfect combination of savory, creamy, and satisfying. So next time you’re wondering where to find vegan meatball subs with cheese sauce near me, know that this delightful and indulgent dish is more accessible than ever before, and with the right ingredients, you can recreate it right in your own kitchen!
