Meatball boats are a delicious and creative way to enjoy meatballs, typically served in a vessel that resembles a “boat.” Here’s a simple recipe for making meatball boats:
Ingredients:
- Meatballs (pre-made or homemade)
- Submarine or hoagie rolls (the “boats”)
- Marinara sauce
- Mozzarella cheese, shredded
- Optional toppings: grated Parmesan cheese, chopped fresh basil, red pepper flakes
Instructions:
- Prepare the Meatballs:
- You can use pre-made frozen meatballs or make your own from scratch. If making your own, mix ground meat (beef, pork, or a combination) with breadcrumbs, egg, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and your favorite Italian seasonings. Shape into meatballs.
- Cook the Meatballs:
- Bake or cook the meatballs according to the package instructions or your recipe until they are fully cooked.
- Prepare the “Boats”:
- Preheat your oven to a temperature recommended for baking the rolls. Slice each roll horizontally, leaving a hinge on one side, creating a “boat” to hold the meatballs.
- Assemble the Meatball Boats:
- Place meatballs in the boats, arranging them evenly. You can cut the meatballs in half for easier stacking.
- Add Marinara Sauce:
- Spoon marinara sauce over the meatballs. You can use store-bought sauce or make your own with tomatoes, garlic, onions, and herbs.
- Top with Cheese:
- Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese generously over the meatballs and sauce.
- Bake in the Oven:
- Place the meatball boats on a baking sheet and bake in the oven until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the rolls are golden brown.
- Optional Toppings:
- Once out of the oven, you can sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese, chopped fresh basil, or red pepper flakes for added flavor.
- Serve:
- Allow the meatball boats to cool slightly before serving. They can be enjoyed as a meal on their own or with a side salad.
Feel free to customize the recipe with your favorite ingredients and spices. Meatball boats are a fun and satisfying dish that’s great for parties, family dinners, or anytime you’re craving a delicious and hearty sandwich.
