Meatball Boats

Meatball boats are a fun, hearty twist on a classic meatball sub—perfect for quick weeknight dinners, game-day snacks, or feeding a hungry crowd. Soft rolls are hollowed into “boats,” brushed with garlic butter, and stuffed with melty mozzarella, saucy meatballs, and a sprinkle of Parmesan. Using homemade meatballs keeps the flavor rich and satisfying, but premade works too when time is tight. They bake up warm, cheesy, and irresistibly comforting.

Ingredients

• 2 pounds ground beef
• 2 eggs
• 1 cup bread crumbs
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for later)
• 6 cloves garlic, minced, divided
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon pepper
• Vegetable oil
• 4 soft rolls
• 8 slices mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup marinara sauce
• 1/4 cup butter, melted
• Freshly grated Parmesan cheese

Directions

1. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, eggs, bread crumbs, 1/4 cup parsley, 3 cloves garlic, salt, and pepper. Form into golf ball–size meatballs.
2. Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high; cook meatballs until browned on all sides. Transfer to a plate.
3. Preheat oven to 350°F.
4. Place rolls on a baking sheet. Cut off the tops and press the centers down to form “boats.”
5. Mix melted butter with remaining 3 cloves garlic and 2 tablespoons parsley; brush onto rolls.
6. Bake rolls 5 minutes to toast.
7. Add two slices of mozzarella to each roll, then a spoonful of marinara.
8. Place three meatballs in each boat and top with more marinara.
9. Bake 25 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
10. Finish with grated Parmesan.

Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cooking Time: 35 minutes | Total Time: 55 minutes
Kcal: 520 kcal (per serving) | Servings: 4

Tips

• Toasting the rolls first prevents sogginess and helps them hold the meatballs better.
• Leftover meatballs freeze well—use them for another batch or pasta night.

FAQ

Can I use frozen meatballs?
Yes—brown them in the skillet first or bake according to package directions.

What type of rolls work best?
Soft hoagie rolls or large bakery rolls hold their shape and toast well.

Can I add veggies?
Sautéed peppers or onions are great additions under the cheese.

Can I make these ahead?
Assemble up to the baking step, refrigerate, and bake when ready—add a few extra minutes if chilled.