ADVERTISEMENT
Once the meatballs are browned, return them to the skillet and pour in the marinara sauce, tossing gently to coat them in the sauce. Let the meatballs simmer in the sauce for 10-15 minutes, until they are cooked through and tender.
Spoon a few meatballs into each hollowed-out bread boat, topping with extra marinara sauce from the pan.
6. Top with Cheese:
Sprinkle mozzarella cheese (and Parmesan if desired) generously over the meatballs and sauce. Make sure each boat is well-covered with cheese.
7. Bake the Meatball Boats:
Place the assembled boats in the preheated oven and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden. The bread should also be lightly toasted, making for the perfect bite of crunchy yet soft bread with gooey cheese.
8. Garnish and Serve:
Once the meatball boats are done, remove them from the oven and sprinkle with fresh basil or parsley for a burst of color and freshness. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Tips for Success:
- Customize the Meatballs: You can use store-bought or homemade meatballs, depending on your time and preference. You can also make these with turkey or chicken meatballs for a lighter option or even try vegetarian meatballs for a plant-based meal.
- Make-Ahead Option: You can prepare the meatballs in advance, store them in the fridge, and then quickly assemble and bake the meatball boats when you’re ready to eat. This is a great option for meal prepping or busy weeknights.
- Add Vegetables: If you’d like to sneak in some extra veggies, add sautéed onions, peppers, or mushrooms to the bread boats before adding the meatballs. These will add both flavor and nutrition to the dish.
- Cheese Variations: If you’re a cheese lover, feel free to experiment with different types of cheese such as provolone, cheddar, or even gorgonzola for a more complex flavor profile.
- Extra Sauce: Serve your meatball boats with extra marinara sauce on the side for dipping! It adds another layer of flavor and is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce.
Why These Meatball Boats are a Must-Try:
These Meatball Boats offer a fun, hands-on way to enjoy meatballs while incorporating the classic flavors we all love. They’re a perfect blend of crunchy, cheesy, saucy goodness, all nestled in a piece of bread. Plus, with their customizable nature, you can easily adapt the recipe to your tastes and dietary preferences, making them a versatile meal option for any family.
Whether you’re serving them for dinner, packing them in a lunchbox, or offering them up at a gathering, these meatball boats are sure to impress. So grab your bread, prepare the meatballs, and get ready for a fun and flavorful meal that will have everyone coming back for more!
