Mini Meatball Garlic Bread Boats

There’s something undeniably comforting about a well-made dish that evokes feelings of home and warmth. Comfort food has a unique ability to bring people together, whether it’s around a dinner table or during festive gatherings. Among the myriad of recipes that cater to this craving, Mini Meatball Garlic Bread Boats stand out as a delightful fusion of flavors and textures. This innovative dish marries the classic comforts of meatballs and garlic bread, creating a savory experience that’s both satisfying and fun to eat.

Discover the comfort of Mini Meatball Garlic Bread Boats—an innovative twist on classic favorites that brings warmth and joy to any gathering. These delicious bites combine savory meatballs, gooey mozzarella, and fragrant garlic butter, all nestled in crispy bread. Perfect for family dinners or game nights, this easy-to-make recipe promises a satisfying experience. Get ready to impress your guests and make lasting memories around the table with this flavorful dish!

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Ingredients

1 loaf of Italian bread or French baguette

1 lb ground beef or turkey

1 cup breadcrumbs

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley

1 large egg

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 tsp onion powder

1 tsp Italian seasoning

Salt and pepper to taste

1 cup marinara sauce (plus extra for serving)

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted

1 tsp garlic powder

Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Prepare the Meatballs: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground meat, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, egg, minced garlic, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined. Roll the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.

Cook the Meatballs: In a large skillet over medium heat, heat a splash of oil and cook the meatballs for about 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally until they're browned on all sides. They don’t need to be fully cooked through since they’ll continue baking in the oven. Remove them from the heat and set aside.

Prepare the Bread Boats: Cut the loaf of Italian bread or baguette in half lengthwise. You can hollow out a bit of the inside to create a “boat” for the meatballs.

Make the Garlic Butter: In a small bowl, mix the melted butter with garlic powder. Brush the mixture evenly over the cut side of the bread halves.

Assemble the Boats: Place the halved bread on a baking sheet. Spread a layer of marinara sauce over each half. Then, arrange the meatballs on top of the sauce, followed by a generous sprinkle of shredded mozzarella cheese.

Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the bread is slightly toasted.

Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes. If desired, garnish with fresh basil leaves. Cut into smaller pieces and serve with additional marinara sauce for dipping.

Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 20 minutes | 40 minutes | 4 servings