Creamy Meatball Boats Recipe

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📝 Introduction

Imagine tender meatballs nestled inside soft, hollowed-out bread rolls, smothered in a rich, creamy garlic-Parmesan sauce, and baked until bubbly and golden. These Creamy Meatball Boats are the perfect fusion of comfort food and easy-to-eat handheld meals. Great for game nights, weeknight dinners, or just when you’re craving something seriously satisfying.

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🛒 Ingredients

For the Meatballs:

• 500g (1 lb) ground beef or pork (or a mix)
• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan
• 1 egg
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp chopped parsley
• Salt & pepper to taste
• 1/2 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tbsp olive oil (for cooking)

For the Creamy Sauce:

• 2 tbsp butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 cups whole milk (or half & half for extra richness)
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt & pepper to taste
• Pinch of nutmeg (optional)
• 1/4 cup chopped parsley (for garnish)

For the Boats:

• 4 sub rolls, hoagie rolls, or small baguettes
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella or provolone (optional, for topping)
• 1 tbsp butter, melted (for brushing the rolls)

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🔧 Instructions & Methods

Step 1: Make the Meatballs

1. In a large bowl, mix together the ground meat, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, egg, garlic, parsley, oregano, salt, and pepper.
2. Roll into small, bite-sized meatballs (about 1 inch in diameter).
3. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and brown the meatballs on all sides (about 6–8 minutes total). They don’t need to be fully cooked—just browned. They’ll finish in the oven.
4. Set aside on a plate.

Step 2: Prepare the Creamy Sauce

1. In the same skillet, melt the butter and add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
2. Stir in the flour and cook for 1 minute to form a roux.
3. Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring constantly to prevent lumps.
4. Cook until the sauce thickens slightly (3–5 minutes).
5. Add Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, and nutmeg (if using). Stir until smooth and creamy.
6. Return the meatballs to the sauce and coat them well. Simmer for another 5 minutes until the meatballs are cooked through.

Step 3: Prepare the Bread Boats

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Slice the tops off each roll and hollow out the centers slightly to make a “boat” shape.
3. Lightly brush the insides with melted butter and toast them in the oven for 5 minutes until just golden. This helps prevent soggy bread.

Step 4: Assemble & Bake

1. Spoon creamy meatballs into each bread boat.
2. Pour extra sauce over the top and sprinkle with shredded mozzarella or provolone, if desired.
3. Place the filled boats on a baking tray lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 5: Serve

• Garnish with fresh parsley.
• Serve hot with a side salad, fries, or roasted veggies.

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👩‍🍳 Tips & Variations

• Make it spicy: Add a pinch of chili flakes to the sauce or use spicy Italian sausage in the meatballs.
• Add veggies: Sautéed mushrooms or spinach go great in the creamy sauce.
• Make ahead: You can prepare the meatballs and sauce ahead of time and assemble just before baking.

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❤️ Why You’ll Love It

These Creamy Meatball Boats combine everything good: melty cheese, rich sauce, hearty meatballs, and crispy bread. They’re indulgent without being overly complicated—and always a crowd-pleaser.