Indulge in the homemade goodness of meatball subs with this incredible recipe! Ground beef combined with garlic, egg, breadcrumbs, and cheese, shaped into savory meatballs, and seared to perfection. Served on mini hoagie rolls, topped with marinara sauce, and melted Asiago cheese, these meatball boats are a delightful twist on a classic favorite. Perfect for a quick and satisfying lunch or dinner for the whole family.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 large egg
- ⅓ cup breadcrumbs
- ¼ cup parmesan cheese
- 1 cup chopped garlic
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 8 mini hoagie rolls
- 12 slices of Asiago cheese
Directions:
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Prepare a baking dish with nonstick spray.
- Prepare the Meatball Mixture:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, egg, breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, chopped garlic, and fresh parsley.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Use your hands to thoroughly mix the ingredients until well combined.
- Form Meatballs:
- Using an ice cream scoop or your hands, form the meat mixture into meatballs of the desired size.
- Sear the Meatballs:
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add the meatballs to the skillet, cooking for about 5 minutes or until they are seared on all sides.
- Bake the Meatballs:
- Transfer the seared meatballs to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the meatballs until they are cooked through, typically for about 15-20 minutes.
- Assemble the Meatball Boats:
- Slice the mini hoagie rolls in half lengthwise, creating a “boat” shape.
- Place a layer of marinara sauce on each roll.
- Arrange the cooked meatballs on top of the marinara sauce.
- Place slices of Asiago cheese over the meatballs.
- Broil the Meatball Boats:
- Preheat the broiler in your oven.
- Transfer the assembled meatball boats to a baking sheet.
- Place the baking sheet under the broiler for a few minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Remove the meatball boats from the oven and let them cool slightly.
- Serve the meatball boats hot and enjoy the delicious homemade flavor!
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions):
- Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef for the meatballs?
- Yes, ground turkey can be substituted for ground beef in this recipe for a lighter alternative. Ensure the turkey is cooked thoroughly before assembling the meatball boats.
- Can I freeze the meatballs for later use?
- Absolutely! Once cooked, allow the meatballs to cool completely, then transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm them in the oven or microwave.
- What other types of cheese can I use for topping the meatball boats?
- While Asiago cheese adds a unique flavor, you can experiment with other cheeses such as mozzarella, provolone, or cheddar based on your preference.
- Can I make the meatballs in advance?
- Yes, you can prepare the meatballs ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until ready to cook. This makes it convenient for meal prep or entertaining guests.
- How can I make the meatballs more flavorful?
- You can enhance the flavor of the meatballs by adding additional herbs and spices such as Italian seasoning, garlic powder, or onion powder to the meat mixture. Adjust the seasoning according to your taste preferences.
conclusion
crafting these delightful Meatball Boats offers a satisfying and flavorful homemade alternative to the classic meatball sub. With a blend of ground beef, garlic, breadcrumbs, and cheese, formed into savory meatballs and nestled on mini hoagie rolls, these boats are then topped with marinara sauce and melted Asiago cheese for an irresistible bite. Whether enjoyed for a quick lunch or served as a hearty dinner, these Meatball Boats are sure to please the whole family with their delicious taste and simple preparation. So, dive into the kitchen and experience the joy of creating this delectable dish that brings the comfort of homemade flavors to your table.