Meatball Boats

Imagine the perfect blend of savory meatballs and melty cheese nestled in a warm, crusty roll. These Meatball Boats are a comforting and hearty dish that brings the flavors of an Italian kitchen straight to your table. With a few simple steps, you can create a meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or a laid-back weekend lunch. Plus, they’re freezer-friendly, so you can enjoy them anytime!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There’s something undeniably satisfying about biting into a meatball sub, and this recipe takes it to the next level. You’ll love how the tangy marinara sauce complements the rich, cheesy meatballs, all packed into a soft hoagie roll. These Meatball Boats are easy to make with just a few ingredients, and they’re perfect for feeding a crowd or prepping ahead for future meals.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Crock pot
• Mixing bowl
• Skillet
• Baking pan
• Parchment paper
• Ice cream scoop
• Knife

Ingredients

• 1 lb. ground beef
• 1 large egg
• ⅓ cup breadcrumbs
• ¼ cup Parmesan cheese
• 1 tbsp. minced garlic
• 1 tbsp fresh chopped parsley
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 8 mini hoagie rolls
• 12 slices asiago cheese

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees.
2. Prep a baking pan with nonstick spray.
3. In a bowl, combine the ground beef, egg, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic, and parsley.
4. Mix the ingredients together using your hands until well combined. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Form meatballs using an ice cream scoop for uniformity.
6. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
7. Add the meatballs to the skillet one at a time and sear them on all sides for about 5 minutes.
8. Transfer the meatballs to a parchment-lined baking pan and bake for 12 minutes.
9. In the meantime, prepare the hoagie rolls by cutting an oval on the top, leaving about a ½ inch on the ends and sides. Hollow out the top of the roll without cutting through the bottom.
10. Place the hollowed rolls on a baking pan, add a slice of asiago cheese inside each, and bake for 8 minutes.
11. Add 2 tablespoons of marinara sauce on top of the cheese, followed by 3 meatballs, and more marinara sauce.
12. Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the top and bake for another 6-8 minutes.
13. Enjoy your delicious Meatball Boats!

Tips for Success

• Ensure the meatballs are well seared before baking to lock in the juices and flavor.
• Use fresh parsley for an extra burst of flavor.

Additional Tips or Variations

For a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the meatball mixture. You can also experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella or provolone for variety.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

• Calories: Approximately 450
• Protein: 25g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Fat: 20g

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?

Yes! These meatballs can be prepared and frozen. Simply freeze them on a cookie sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag for later use.

What other meats can I use?

You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. Adjust the seasoning to taste.

Conclusion

These Meatball Boats are a delightful meal that brings everyone together. Their hearty flavors and easy preparation make them a fantastic addition to your recipe rotation. Give them a try and let us know how they turn out! Share your creations and any variations you try in the comments below. Enjoy your cooking adventure!