Meatball Casserole Recipe

Craving a warm, hearty, and comforting dish that’s sure to be a hit at the dinner table? Look no further! Our Meatball Casserole recipe combines succulent meatballs, rich marinara sauce, and gooey melted cheese, all baked to perfection. This dish is perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or meal prepping for the week. Read on to learn how to make this delicious meal from scratch!

---

What is a Meatball Casserole?

A meatball casserole is a layered baked dish that features homemade (or store-bought) meatballs smothered in sauce, combined with other ingredients like pasta, vegetables, or bread. It’s a fusion of classic Italian flavors—tender meatballs, flavorful tomato sauce, and a generous layer of cheese—all baked together for a comforting, satisfying meal. The beauty of a meatball casserole lies in its versatility; it’s easy to customize with various ingredients and spices, making it a perfect dish for a variety of palates.

---

Ingredients List for Meatball Casserole

Here’s what you’ll need to make a delicious Meatball Casserole:

For the Meatballs:

• 1 lb ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork for extra flavor)
• ½ cup breadcrumbs (Italian-style preferred)
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 egg
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ¼ cup milk (for extra moisture)

For the Casserole:

• 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
• 8 oz uncooked pasta (penne, ziti, or any pasta of choice)
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (for topping)
• Fresh basil leaves (optional, for garnish)
• Olive oil (for greasing the baking dish)
• Red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)

---

Substitutions and Variations

The beauty of this Meatball Casserole recipe lies in its versatility. If you’re looking to switch things up or accommodate dietary preferences, here are a few ideas:

• Meat Choices: Instead of ground beef, you can use ground turkey, chicken, or a blend of pork and beef. For a vegetarian option, you can swap out the meatballs for plant-based alternatives or make lentil or mushroom “meatballs.”
• Cheese Variations: While mozzarella is a go-to for casseroles, you can use provolone, cheddar, or a mix of cheeses for added flavor.
• Low-Carb Option: Skip the pasta and layer your casserole with zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash for a low-carb version.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs in your meatballs and gluten-free pasta for the casserole.
• Extra Veggies: Add some sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini to sneak in extra nutrition without altering the flavor.

These substitutions allow you to tailor the dish to your dietary preferences while still delivering all the deliciousness of a classic Meatball Casserole.

---

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Follow these steps to make the perfect Meatball Casserole:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Prepare the meatballs: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, minced garlic, oregano, basil, salt, pepper, and milk. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
3. Shape the meatballs: Form the mixture into 1-inch balls and set them aside on a plate.
4. Cook the meatballs: Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook the meatballs until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. (They don’t need to be fully cooked through at this point as they will finish cooking in the oven.)
5. Cook the pasta: In a separate pot, bring water to a boil and cook the pasta according to the package directions. Drain and set aside.
6. Assemble the casserole: Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with olive oil. Spread half of the marinara sauce on the bottom of the dish, then layer the cooked pasta on top. Add the meatballs over the pasta, then pour the remaining marinara sauce over the top.
7. Add the cheese: Sprinkle the mozzarella cheese evenly over the top, followed by the Parmesan cheese.
8. Bake: Cover the casserole with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. After 20 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
9. Garnish and serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh basil leaves (optional) and serve.

---

How to Cook Meatball Casserole: A Step-by-Step Guide

To break it down further, here’s a detailed guide on how to make this dish from start to finish:

Step 1: Mix and Form the Meatballs

Start by mixing your ground beef (or preferred protein), breadcrumbs, Parmesan, egg, garlic, herbs, and seasonings in a bowl. Using your hands, mix gently to combine the ingredients. The key is not to overwork the meat, as that can make your meatballs tough. Form the mixture into small, even-sized balls.

Step 2: Brown the Meatballs

In a skillet, heat some olive oil and brown your meatballs on all sides. This will not only lock in flavor but also give them a nice texture. Browning is crucial for that perfect balance of crispy edges and a tender interior.

Step 3: Cook the Pasta

While your meatballs are browning, cook your pasta until al dente. You don’t want it too soft, as it will continue to cook in the oven when the casserole bakes.

Step 4: Layer the Ingredients

Once the meatballs and pasta are ready, start assembling. Begin by layering sauce, followed by pasta, meatballs, and more sauce. Top it all off with mozzarella and Parmesan for a cheesy, melty finish.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Cover the dish with foil and bake it until it’s bubbly and the cheese is melted. Removing the foil toward the end of baking allows the cheese to turn a golden brown, giving the casserole an irresistible finish.

---

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overmixing the meatball mixture: This can make the meatballs tough. Mix gently just until everything is combined.
• Skipping the browning step: Browning the meatballs before baking adds flavor and texture. Don’t skip this!
• Overcooking the pasta: Since the pasta will continue cooking in the oven, make sure to cook it al dente.
• Not enough sauce: If your casserole seems dry, it’s usually because there’s not enough sauce. Be generous with your marinara to keep things moist and flavorful.

---

Serving and Presentation Tips

Presentation is key to making your Meatball Casserole look as good as it tastes. Here are some ideas:

How to Serve Meatball Casserole

• Serve this casserole with a side salad of mixed greens for a balanced meal.
• Pair it with garlic bread or a crusty loaf of Italian bread to soak up the sauce.
• For a heartier meal, add roasted vegetables or a Caesar salad on the side.

Presentation Ideas for Meatball Casserole

• Garnish with fresh basil: A sprinkle of fresh basil on top adds a pop of color and fresh flavor.
• Use a cast-iron skillet: If you want to serve the casserole in a rustic, family-style way, bake and serve it in a cast-iron skillet.
• Individual servings: Use mini casserole dishes for personal-sized servings, great for dinner parties or individual meal preps.

---

Meatball Casserole Recipe Tips

• Make Ahead: You can prepare the casserole in advance by assembling everything (without baking), covering it, and storing it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, simply pop it in the oven.
• Freezing: This dish freezes well! Freeze the assembled casserole (before baking) and store it for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed.
• Double the Recipe: This casserole is a great meal to make in bulk. Double the recipe and freeze one for a busy weeknight meal.

---

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use store-bought meatballs for this recipe?
A: Absolutely! If you’re short on time, using frozen or pre-made meatballs is a convenient option. Just make sure to adjust the baking time accordingly.

Q: How long does Meatball Casserole last in the fridge?
A: Stored in an airtight container, Meatball Casserole will last up to 4 days in the fridge. Simply reheat it in the oven or microwave.

Q: Can I make this casserole without pasta?
A: Yes! You can substitute the pasta with vegetables like zucchini noodles, spaghetti squash, or even cauliflower rice for a lower-carb version.

Q: Can I add extra vegetables to the casserole?
A: Definitely! Adding veggies like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms can enhance both the flavor and nutritional value of the dish.

---

Conclusion

Whether you're looking for a cozy family dinner or a dish to impress guests, this Meatball Casserole is a winning choice. With its juicy meatballs, savory sauce, and gooey cheese, it’s a comforting classic that can be tailored to fit any preference. Try it today, and watch it become a staple in your home cooking repertoire!

Print