Here’s a classic and delicious Meatball Boats recipe that’s perfect for a crowd or an easy family dinner—savory, cheesy, and super satisfying!
🍝 Meatball Boats Recipe
đź›’ Ingredients:
For the Meatballs:
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1 lb ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
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1/3 cup breadcrumbs
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1/4 cup grated Parmesan
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1 egg
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2 garlic cloves, minced
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2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
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Salt & pepper, to taste
For the Boats:
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4 hoagie rolls or small baguettes
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1 ½ cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
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1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella or provolone cheese
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Optional: extra parsley or basil for garnish
🍳 Instructions:
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Make the Meatballs:
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In a large bowl, mix ground meat, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, egg, garlic, parsley, salt, and pepper.
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Roll into small meatballs (about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter).
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In a skillet over medium heat, brown the meatballs in a bit of olive oil, turning to sear all sides (5-6 minutes).
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Add marinara sauce, lower heat, cover, and simmer until meatballs are cooked through (10–12 minutes).
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Prepare the Boats:
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Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
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Slice hoagie rolls down the center and hollow out the inside slightly to make room for the filling.
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Place on a baking sheet and toast in the oven for 5 minutes.
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Assemble:
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Place a layer of cheese at the bottom of each roll.
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Add 3–4 meatballs per roll with a spoonful of marinara sauce.
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Top with more cheese.
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Bake:
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Return to oven and bake until cheese is melted and bubbly, about 8–10 minutes.
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Optional: Broil for 2–3 minutes for a golden finish.
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Garnish & Serve:
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Sprinkle with extra Parmesan and chopped herbs if desired.
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Serve warm!
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Let me know if you want a healthier version, a slow-cooker twist, or even a kid-friendly mini version of this recipe!