Delicious Meatball Casserole Recipe for Comfort Food Lovers

It’s a chilly Sunday evening, and you’re craving something warm and comforting—something that wraps around you like a cozy blanket. Enter the glorious meatball casserole! Imagine perfectly seasoned meatballs nestled in a sea of gooey cheese and savory sauce, bubbling away in the oven. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will have you dreaming of family dinners and laughter-filled evenings.

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This dish isn’t just about flavors; it’s about memories. Picture this: your family gathered around the table, forks poised with anticipation as they dig into a pan of steaming meatball casserole. That’s the magic of this dish—it brings everyone together, making it an ideal choice for game nights or casual get-togethers.

One time I made this meatball casserole for a potluck, and let’s just say my friends were fighting over the last piece like it was the final slice of pizza at a party!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Ground Beef: Choose lean ground beef for a balanced flavor without excess grease.
• Breadcrumbs: Use plain or Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs to bind the meatballs nicely.
• Eggs: Two large eggs help hold everything together while adding moisture.
• Garlic Powder: This adds depth; fresh garlic can be used if preferred!
• Italian Seasoning: A blend of herbs elevates the flavor profile significantly.
• Pasta Sauce: Use your favorite marinara or homemade sauce for that authentic touch.
• Shredded Cheese: Mozzarella is classic; feel free to mix in some cheddar for extra richness.
• Pasta (optional): Cooked penne or rotini makes a great addition if you want some carbs!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it together

Prepare the Oven and Baking Dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with nonstick spray to prevent sticking later.

Make the Meatballs: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, eggs, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Mix gently until well combined but avoid overmixing.

Shape and Brown the Meatballs: Form small meatballs using your hands—aim for about 1 inch in diameter. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and brown them on all sides until golden.

Add Pasta Sauce to the Dish: Pour half of your pasta sauce into the greased baking dish. Place browned meatballs on top in an even layer before drizzling remaining sauce over them.

Add Cheese and Bake: Sprinkle shredded mozzarella generously over everything—because more cheese equals more happiness! Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes.

Uncover and Continue Baking: Remove foil after 25 minutes and bake uncovered for an additional 10-15 minutes until cheese is bubbly and slightly golden brown.

Now you have an irresistible meatball casserole that’s sure to steal hearts—and stomachs!

This recipe is not just simple; it’s also forgiving! You can toss in leftover veggies or switch up proteins if you’re feeling adventurous.

Serve this delightful dish with crusty bread or a side salad to balance out all that cheesy goodness! Enjoy every bite as you bask in that warm comfort food glow!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by browning the meatballs first; it locks in flavor and creates a delightful crust. Meanwhile, preheat your oven to 350°F to ensure everything cooks evenly together.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap ground beef for turkey or add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrition. You can also experiment with different cheeses for unique flavors.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover meatball casserole in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply pop it in the oven at 350°F until heated through.

Sharing this recipe reminds me of the time my friends came over for dinner, and they raved about how it tasted like a warm hug. Their smiles made every effort worthwhile!

FAQ

Can I use frozen meatballs for meatball casserole?

Yes, frozen meatballs work well; just increase baking time slightly.

What sides pair well with meatball casserole?

Garlic bread or a fresh salad complement this dish perfectly.

How do I make my casserole less greasy?

Use leaner meat and drain excess fat before adding sauce and cheese.

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Delicious Meatball Casserole

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• Author: tastyfoodonly
• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Yield: Serves 6

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Description

Delight in this comforting meatball casserole, a cheesy and savory dish that’s perfect for family dinners or cozy gatherings.

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Ingredients

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• 1 lb lean ground beef
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tbsp Italian seasoning
• 2 cups pasta sauce
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
2. In a large bowl, mix ground beef, breadcrumbs, eggs, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning until just combined.
3. Form into small meatballs (about 1 inch in diameter) and brown in a skillet over medium heat until golden on all sides.
4. Pour half of the pasta sauce into the baking dish, layer with browned meatballs, then drizzle remaining sauce over the top.
5. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella generously on top. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
6. Remove foil and bake uncovered for an additional 10-15 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Category: Comfort Food
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 piece (approximately 200g)
• Calories: 380
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 700mg
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 24g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 20g
• Cholesterol: 80mg