Meatball Boats

Ingredients

Meatballs:

  • 2 pounds ground beef
  • 2 eggs
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley (plus an additional 2 tablespoons, chopped, divided)
  • 6 cloves garlic, minced, divided
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Boat Base:

  • 4 hoagie rolls or baguettes, hollowed out
  • 1 1/2 cups marinara sauce
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

Optional Garnishes:

  • Fresh basil leaves
  • Extra Parmesan cheese

Construction

  1. Prepare the Meatballs:
    • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
    • In a large bowl, mix ground beef, eggs, breadcrumbs, 1/4 cup parsley, 4 cloves of minced garlic, salt, black pepper, Italian seasoning, and Parmesan cheese until well combined.
    • Roll the mixture into golf-ball-sized meatballs and place them on a greased or parchment-lined baking sheet.
  2. Cook the Meatballs:
    • Bake the meatballs for 15-20 minutes, or until browned and cooked through.
  3. Prepare the Boat Base:
    • While the meatballs are baking, hollow out the centers of the hoagie rolls or baguettes, leaving enough bread to hold the filling.
    • Brush the inside of each roll with a little olive oil and toast them in the oven for 5-7 minutes until slightly crispy.
  4. Assemble the Boats:
    • Fill each toasted roll with a layer of marinara sauce.
    • Add 3-4 meatballs to each roll (depending on size), then top with more marinara sauce.
    • Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the top.
  5. Melt the Cheese:
    • Place the assembled boats on a baking sheet and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  6. Garnish and Serve:
    • Remove the boats from the oven and sprinkle with the remaining parsley and Parmesan cheese. Add fresh basil leaves if desired. Serve immediately.

Variations

  • Spicy Meatball Boats: Add crushed red pepper flakes to the meatball mixture or use a spicy marinara sauce.
  • Cheese Lovers: Mix shredded mozzarella into the meatball mixture for an extra cheesy center.
  • Vegetarian Option: Substitute meatballs with plant-based meatballs or roasted veggies like zucchini and eggplant.
  • Garlic Bread Boats: Brush the rolls with garlic butter before toasting for a flavorful base.

Tips

  • Even-Sized Meatballs: Use a cookie scoop to ensure uniform meatballs that cook evenly.
  • Soft Rolls: Choose rolls with a soft crust for easier eating.
  • Make Ahead: Prepare the meatballs in advance and store them in the refrigerator or freezer. Assemble the boats just before baking.
  • Leftovers: Store assembled boats in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.

Enjoy these hearty and delicious Meatball Boats!

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