The Core Calorie Count: Regular #15 Meatball & Cheese Sub
The standard #15 meatball and cheese sub from Jersey Mike's, prepared on white bread and served 'Mike's Way' with cheese, is a hefty meal. Based on nutritional data, a regular-sized sub contains approximately 800-810 calories. This total is derived from a combination of the meatballs, marinara sauce, provolone cheese, and the Italian bread. The calorie count includes a significant amount of fat and carbohydrates, making it a filling but calorically dense option. For context, this single sub could account for a large portion of an average person's daily calorie intake, especially if other items like a side of chips or a soda are added.
Size Matters: A Breakdown by Sub Dimensions
The size of your meatball sub is the biggest factor influencing its overall calorie count. Jersey Mike's offers several sizes, and the calorie difference between them is substantial. The standard sizing options are Regular, Mini, and Giant, each with a proportional increase in meatballs, cheese, sauce, and bread. Understanding this scale is crucial for anyone monitoring their intake.
Comparing the Sizes of the #15 Meatball & Cheese Sub
| Size | White Bread Calories | Wheat Bread Calories | Rosemary Parmesan Calories |
|---|---|---|---|
| Regular (7-inch) | ~800-810 calories | ~810 calories | ~830 calories |
| Giant (14-15 inch) | ~1540-1570 calories | ~1540 calories | ~1620 calories |
| Mini (5-inch) | Not standard, but lower | Not standard, but lower | Not standard, but lower |
Note: Mini sizes are not consistently tracked in third-party nutrition databases for the meatball sub, but would be significantly lower than the regular size.
As the table shows, opting for a Giant sub more than doubles the calorie count of a Regular. It is important to remember these figures represent a standard preparation and can vary based on the specifics of each location's portioning.
How Your Bread Choice and Toppings Affect Calories
Beyond the size, the specific type of bread chosen, as well as the condiments and toppings, can alter the nutritional information of the meatball sub. While the difference between bread types is less dramatic than the size variation, every choice adds up.
- Bread Type: Choosing a different type of bread, such as the white, wheat, or rosemary parmesan, introduces slight variations. For instance, the Rosemary Parmesan adds a few extra calories compared to the standard white or wheat bread.
- Cheese: The standard sub comes with provolone cheese. Requesting extra cheese will increase both the fat and calorie content. Sources indicate that extra cheese can significantly add to the total, as seen in third-party nutritional estimates.
- Mike's Way: This signature preparation includes onions, lettuce, tomatoes, and a blend of spices, olive oil, and red wine vinegar. The oil and vinegar blend, while delicious, contributes additional calories and fat. While a standard portion adds minimal calories, extra servings of oil can cause a noticeable increase.
- Other Condiments: Additional items like extra sauce or toppings can also play a role in the final tally. It's best to check Jersey Mike's official nutrition information for a precise breakdown of add-ons.
Healthier Ways to Enjoy Your Meatball Sub
For those watching their calorie intake, a full-size meatball sub might be too much. Fortunately, Jersey Mike's offers several alternatives to still enjoy the flavors without all the calories.
- Sub in a Tub: Ordering a meatball and cheese sub 'in a tub' removes the bread entirely, serving the meatballs, sauce, and cheese in a bowl. This drastically reduces the calorie count, as much of the original sub's calories come from the bread. It can be a satisfying and lower-carb option. The 'in a tub' version of the #15 sub is reported to contain around 520 calories.
- Wraps: Another option is to order the meatball and cheese sub in a wrap, such as the flour tortilla wrap. The calorie count for a flour tortilla wrap meatball sub is approximately 830 calories, very similar to the regular size on bread, but can vary by location.
- Portion Control: If you prefer the classic sub, simply splitting a regular-sized sub with a friend or saving half for later is an effective way to manage your calorie intake. You can also ask for less cheese to trim some calories.
Conclusion
When considering how many calories are in a Jersey Mike's meatball sub, the answer varies based on your choices. A regular sub is a high-calorie meal, but by adjusting the size, bread type, and toppings, or choosing a 'Sub in a Tub' version, you can better manage your intake. For precise nutritional values and a full breakdown of ingredients, always consult the official Jersey Mike's nutrition guide, but this provides a strong starting point for making an informed decision about your meal. For the most up-to-date information, checking the official site is best. For example, explore the nutritional offerings on the Jersey Mike's website for specifics.
