Cheese Boats
Cheese Boats feature savory hamburger, melted cheddar, and spicy chilies stuffed into hollowed French rolls, baked to perfection—an irresistible, hearty dish perfect for casual gatherings or family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the hamburger in a skillet.
- Grate the cheddar cheese and chop the olives, onion, and green chilies.
- Combine the cooked hamburger with the grated cheese, chopped olives, onion, green chilies, tomato sauce, vinegar, and oil.
- Scoop out the insides of the French rolls to create boats.
- Fill each roll with the mixture and wrap each in foil.
- Bake at 350°F for 20 to 25 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor, consider adding spices such as cumin or paprika to the hamburger mixture. If you prefer a milder cheese, Monterey Jack can be substituted for Cheddar. For a vegetarian option, replace the hamburger with black beans or lentils. You can also use sourdough or whole wheat rolls for added texture and flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these cheese boats with a side of fresh salad or a dollop of sour cream for added creaminess. They pair beautifully with Chilli Cups for a fun twist on a dinner spread. You could also offer a selection of dipping sauces, such as salsa or guacamole, to complement the flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, wrap the cheese boats in foil and place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15 minutes, or until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave them for 2-3 minutes, but the oven method will keep them crisp.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cheese Boats contains roughly 1145 calories, with 18g protein, 55g carbohydrates, and 96g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (36% of the Daily Value), calcium (27% of the Daily Value), and iron (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1162mg per serving (51% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these cheese boats ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the filling a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. When you're ready to serve, scoop out the rolls and fill them just before baking. This is a great way to save time, especially for gatherings or busy weeknights.
Can I use different types of cheese?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix and match your favorite cheeses. Pepper Jack adds a nice kick, while mozzarella provides a gooey texture. Combining multiple cheeses can elevate the flavor profile and make them even more delicious.
What can I do with leftover rolls?
If you have leftover French rolls, consider turning them into croutons or breadcrumbs. Simply cube the rolls, toss them with olive oil and seasonings, and bake until crisp. This way, you can reduce waste and use them in salads or soups.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).