Step 1: Make the Meatballs
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the ground meat, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, minced garlic, beaten egg, milk, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined but not overworked.
- Form Meatballs: Shape the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter. This size ensures they fit nicely in the bread boats.
- Bake Meatballs: Place the meatballs on a lined baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes or until they are browned and cooked through.
Step 2: Prepare the Bread
- Hollow Out the Bread: While the meatballs are baking, prepare your baguettes or sub rolls by cutting a deep V into the top and removing some of the inner bread to create a boat.
- Toast Lightly: Optional – Toast the bread lightly in the oven for 5-7 minutes if you prefer a crunchier texture.
Step 3: Assemble the Boats
- Add Sauce: Spoon a small amount of marinara sauce into the bottom of each bread boat.
- Add Meatballs: Place several meatballs into each boat, depending on the size of your bread.
- Top with More Sauce and Cheese: Spoon more marinara sauce over the meatballs, then sprinkle generously with shredded mozzarella.
Step 4: Bake the Meatball Boats
- Bake: Return the boats to the oven and bake for another 10-15 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the bread is toasty.
Step 5: Serve
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish with fresh basil if desired. Serve the meatball boats hot, ideally with a side salad or some extra marinara sauce for dipping.
Tips
- Meatball Variations: Feel free to use turkey or chicken for a lighter version. Adding finely chopped onion or soaked bread instead of breadcrumbs can add moisture to the meatballs.
- Cheese Options: Apart from mozzarella, you could use provolone or a blend of Italian cheeses for a different flavor profile.
- Serving Size: If serving as a main dish, consider using larger baguettes and creating more substantial boats. For appetizer portions, smaller rolls work best.
Meatball boats are a delightful and filling dish that combines the comforting flavors of meatballs and cheese with the convenience of a hand-held format. Enjoy making and serving these at your next gathering!