Sausage Meatball Sandwiches

Using wet hands, lightly roll sausage into 12 golf ball–size balls (about 2 oz. each). Heat 2 Tbsp. oil in a large Dutch oven or other heavy pot over medium. Cook meatballs, turning occasionally, until browned all over, 10–12 minutes. Transfer to a plate.

Add fennel, onion, half of garlic, and 2 Tbsp. oil to same pot; season with salt and pepper and cook, stirring often, until onion is translucent and golden brown around edges, 8–10 minutes.

Add tomatoes, crushing with your hands as you go, and bring to a simmer. Season with salt and pepper and cook, stirring occasionally, until sauce just begins to thicken, 5–8 minutes.