Meatball Boats

1. Prepare the Meatballs:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef (or beef and pork mixture), breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped fresh parsley, egg, minced garlic, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper.
3. Mix the ingredients together until well combined, but avoid overmixing to keep the meatballs tender.
4. Shape the mixture into meatballs, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter, and place them on the prepared baking sheet.

2. Bake the Meatballs:

1. Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the meatballs for 20-25 minutes, or until they are cooked through and browned on the outside.
2. Once cooked, remove the meatballs from the oven and set aside.

3. Prepare the Meatball Boats:

1. Slice each sub roll or hoagie bun lengthwise, leaving one side attached to create a “boat.”
2. Place the sliced rolls on a baking sheet, cut side up.
3. Place 3-4 meatballs inside each roll, depending on the size of the rolls and meatballs.
4. Spoon marinara sauce over the meatballs, dividing it evenly among the rolls.
5. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the top of each meatball boat.
6. Optional: Sprinkle additional grated Parmesan cheese over the top for extra flavor.

4. Bake the Meatball Boats:

1. Place the baking sheet with the assembled meatball boats in the preheated oven.
2. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the bread is toasted.

5. Garnish and Serve:

1. Once baked, remove the meatball boats from the oven.
2. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley, if desired, for a pop of color and freshness.
3. Serve the Meatball Boats hot, either as a satisfying meal or as a crowd-pleasing appetizer for parties or gatherings.

6. Enjoy Your Savory Meatball Boats:

1. Dive into the deliciousness of these savory Meatball Boats, with their tender meatballs, gooey melted cheese, and flavorful marinara sauce, all nestled in warm, toasted bread.
2. Share these delectable treats with family and friends and watch as they delight in the irresistible combination of flavors and textures.
3. Save any leftovers (if there are any!) in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

Conclusion: With their savory meatballs, gooey melted cheese, and warm, toasted bread, these Meatball Boats are a delicious twist on a classic favorite. Perfect for a satisfying meal or a crowd-pleasing appetizer, these savory delights are sure to please. So gather your ingredients, set sail in the kitchen, and enjoy the comforting goodness of Meatball Boats with your loved ones. Bon voyage to flavor town!