These Meatball Boats are a fun and delicious way to serve up classic meatballs in a new way! Hollowed-out bread rolls are filled with juicy meatballs, marinara sauce, and melted cheese, making them perfect for a family dinner, game day, or a fun party appetizer.
📋 Ingredients:
- 12 small sub rolls or hotdog buns 🍞
- 1 lb ground beef 🍖
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs 🌾
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese 🧀
- 1 large egg 🥚
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning 🌿
- 2 cloves garlic, minced 🧄
- Salt and pepper to taste 🧂🌶️
- 2 cups marinara sauce 🍅
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese 🧀
- 2 tablespoons olive oil 🫒
- Fresh parsley for garnish 🌿
📝 Instructions:
1. Make the Meatballs:
- Prepare the meatball mixture:
- In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, Italian seasoning, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix until everything is well combined.
- Form the meatballs:
- Roll the mixture into small, 1-inch meatballs and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake the meatballs:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake the meatballs for 15-20 minutes, or until they are cooked through and browned.
2. Prepare the Bread Boats:
- Hollow out the rolls:
- While the meatballs are baking, take each sub roll and carefully cut a V-shaped wedge from the top of the bread to create a “boat.” Remove some of the soft bread from the inside, leaving enough to hold the meatballs and sauce.
- Brush with olive oil:
- Lightly brush the inside of each hollowed-out roll with olive oil.
3. Assemble the Meatball Boats:
- Add marinara and meatballs:
- Spoon a little marinara sauce into the bottom of each bread boat. Place 3-4 cooked meatballs into each roll.
- Top with cheese and sauce:
- Spoon more marinara sauce over the meatballs, then sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese generously on top.
4. Bake the Meatball Boats:
- Bake:
- Place the assembled meatball boats on a baking sheet and return them to the oven. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the bread is toasted.
5. Serve:
- Garnish and serve:
- Remove the meatball boats from the oven and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve hot and enjoy!
⏱️ Preparation Time: 15 minutes
⏱️ Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
⏱️ Total Time: 45-50 minutes
🍽️ Servings: 6-8 servings
🔥 Calories: Approximately 400-450 kcal per serving
These Meatball Boats are a cheesy, saucy, and hearty meal that’s sure to be a hit with the whole family. Perfect for a quick dinner or a fun party dish! 🍝🛥️🧀