Looking for a warm, hearty dish that feels like a comforting hug on a plate? Enter the Baked Meatball Casserole—a recipe that's perfect for family dinners, lazy Sundays, or any time you're craving something irresistibly satisfying. With juicy, flavorful meatballs nestled in a bed of rich marinara sauce and oozing melted cheese, this casserole is bound to become a household favorite. Bonus? It's super easy to make and just as delicious the next day!
Ingredients
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You'll Need:
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To whip up this dreamy casserole, here’s what you’ll need:
For the Meatballs:
- 1 lb (500g) ground beef (or mix with pork for extra flavor)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 2 garlic cloves, finely minced
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
For the Casserole:
- 2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 tsp red chili flakes (optional, for a spicy kick)
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Optional:
- Serve with crusty bread or over spaghetti for an extra twist!
How to Make Baked Meatball Casserole:
This recipe is simple enough for beginners but delivers impressive results every time!
1. Prep the Meatballs
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground meat, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, egg, garlic, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Use your hands to gently mix everything until evenly combined, but do not overwork the mixture.
- Roll the mixture into bite-sized meatballs (about 1-1.5 inches in diameter) and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
2. Bake the Meatballs
- Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for about 12-15 minutes, or until they’re browned and just cooked through.
3. Assemble the Casserole
- Spread about 1/2 cup of marinara sauce evenly over the bottom of a casserole dish (9x13-inch works well).
- Place the baked meatballs on top of the sauce, arranging them in a single layer.
- Pour the remaining marinara sauce evenly over the meatballs.
- Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and Parmesan over the entire dish, ensuring every corner is covered in cheesy goodness.
- Add a pinch of red chili flakes if you like a bit of heat.
4. Bake the Casserole
- Bake in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for another 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden-brown on top.
5. Serve and Enjoy
- Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving. Pair with garlic bread, a crisp green salad, or over al dente spaghetti for a complete meal.
Why You'll Love This Baked Meatball Casserole:
- Perfectly Juicy Meatballs: The blend of breadcrumbs and Parmesan keeps the meatballs tender and flavorful.
- Minimal Effort, Maximum Flavor: No frying required, and the baking process enhances all the cozy flavors.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Whether it's a family gathering or a potluck, everyone will come back for seconds.
- Versatile: Easily customize the recipe with turkey, chicken, or plant-based meat substitutes.
Tips for Success:
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for a richer flavor.
- Incorporate different cheeses like Gouda or Fontina for a unique cheesy twist.
- For gluten-free meatballs, swap breadcrumbs for almond flour or gluten-free panko.
Storing and Reheating:
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Warm in the oven at 350°F until heated through, or use a microwave for a quick fix.
- Freeze: Cooked meatballs can be frozen separately for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before assembling the casserole.
Final Bite:
This Baked Meatball Casserole combines everything we all love about cozy casseroles—cheesy, saucy, and absolutely indulgent. It’s a go-to comfort food that’s just as fun to make as it is to eat. Try the recipe today and get ready for a round of applause at dinner!
Happy cooking—and even happier eating! 😊
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