Meatball Boats are a mouthwatering, fun way to enjoy the classic flavors of Italian-style meatballs with a creative twist. These delicious, cheesy, and saucy delights are served in hollowed-out bread rolls, making them a perfect meal for family gatherings, parties, or a cozy dinner. The combination of juicy meatballs, rich marinara sauce, and melted cheese nestled inside a soft, toasted bread boat makes this dish irresistible. Easy to prepare and bursting with flavor, Meatball Boats will become a favorite on your menu.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley (chopped)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 4 to 6 small bread rolls (French or Italian)
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder (for garlic butter)
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano (for garlic butter)
Instructions
- Prepare the Meatballs: In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, egg, milk, and chopped parsley. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Form the Meatballs: Roll the mixture into small meatballs, about the size of a golf ball. Set aside.
- Cook the Meatballs: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs and cook until browned on all sides, about 5–7 minutes. Remove excess grease if necessary.
- Simmer in Sauce: Pour the marinara sauce into the skillet with the meatballs. Let them simmer for 10–12 minutes on low heat, stirring occasionally, until fully cooked and infused with the sauce.
- Prepare the Bread Boats: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut the tops off the bread rolls and hollow out the center, creating a boat shape. Be careful not to cut through the bottom.
- Garlic Butter Coating: Mix melted butter with garlic powder and dried oregano. Brush this mixture over the inside and edges of the bread boats for extra flavor.
- Assemble the Meatball Boats: Place 2–3 meatballs in each hollowed-out bread roll. Spoon extra marinara sauce over the meatballs.
- Add Cheese: Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese generously over the top of each meatball boat.
- Bake to Perfection: Arrange the filled bread boats on a baking sheet and place them in the preheated oven. Bake for 10–12 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve Hot: Remove from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. Garnish with extra parsley or Parmesan cheese if desired.
Meatball Boats are best enjoyed warm, offering a crispy, cheesy, and savory bite in every mouthful. Perfect as a party appetizer or a main dish, these boats bring a creative and delicious spin to traditional meatball recipes.