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Buffalo flavors have carved out a significant niche in American cuisine, celebrated for their bold, tangy, and spicy profiles. Whether it’s the classic Buffalo chicken wings or Buffalo-flavored dips, this taste sensation is a favorite at gatherings, game day parties, and casual dinners alike. Today, we’re giving a healthy twist to this beloved flavor profile with our Buffalo Turkey Meatball Sub Boats. These delicious sandwiches combine the iconic Buffalo taste with the lean goodness of ground turkey, making them a perfect choice for both health-conscious eaters and flavor enthusiasts.

Buffalo Turkey Meatball Sub Boats

Indulge in the deliciousness of Buffalo Turkey Meatball Sub Boats, a flavorful twist on a classic favorite. These hearty sandwiches feature lean ground turkey meatballs bursting with spicy Buffalo sauce, all nestled in toasted rolls. Packed with protein and fiber, they're perfect for a healthy meal or game day gatherings. Experiment with toppings like mozzarella or blue cheese for added richness. Impress your guests and satisfy your cravings with this easy, mouthwatering recipe!
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Ingredients
  

For the Meatballs:

1 pound ground turkey

1/2 cup whole wheat breadcrumbs

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1/4 cup finely chopped green onions

1 large egg, beaten

1 tablespoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

1 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

1/2 cup buffalo sauce (plus extra for drizzling)

For the Sub Boats:

4 hoagie rolls or French baguettes

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese (optional)

Fresh celery and carrot sticks for garnish

Chopped fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures the oven is at the right temperature when the meatballs are ready to bake.

    Prepare Meatball Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground turkey, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped green onions, beaten egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and buffalo sauce. Use your hands or a spoon to mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix as it can lead to tough meatballs.

      Shape the Meatballs: Form the mixture into meatballs, approximately 1.5 inches in diameter, and arrange them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

        Bake the Meatballs: Bake the turkey meatballs in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Halfway through the baking time, brush the meatballs with additional buffalo sauce to enhance the flavor and keep them moist.

          Prepare the Sub Rolls: While the meatballs are baking, take the hoagie rolls and slice them in half lengthwise. Hollow out the inside gently to create a boat shape by removing some of the softer bread, making room for the meatballs and toppings.

            Assemble the Sub Boats: Once the meatballs are cooked, remove them from the oven and decrease the oven temperature to 350°F (175°C). Place 3-4 meatballs into each prepared hoagie roll. Drizzle with extra buffalo sauce, then top with shredded mozzarella cheese and crumbled blue cheese, if desired.

              Bake the Sub Boats: Return the assembled sub boats to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, creating a deliciously gooey topping.

                Garnish and Serve: After baking, take the sub boats out of the oven and let them cool slightly. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color, and serve alongside fresh celery and carrot sticks for a crunchy, refreshing accompaniment.

                  Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 45 minutes | Servings: 4 servings

                    - Presentation Tips: Serve the sub boats on a large platter, drizzled with extra buffalo sauce and garnished with vegetable sticks for a vibrant, inviting display.