IngredientsMeatballs:2 pounds ground beef2 eggs1 cup breadcrumbs1/4 cup fresh parsley (plus an additional 2 tablespoons, chopped, divided)6 cloves garlic, minced, divided1 teaspoon salt1/2 teaspoon black pepper1 teaspoon Italian seasoning1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheeseBoat Base:4 hoagie rolls or baguettes, hollowed out1 1/2 cups marinara sauce2 cups shredded mozzarella cheeseOptional Garnishes:Fresh basil leavesExtra Parmesan cheeseConstructionPrepare 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.Cook the Meatballs:Bake the meatballs for 15-20 minutes, or until browned and cooked through.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.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.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.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.VariationsSpicy 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.TipsEven-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!Enjoy!
Meatball Boats
