Meatball Casserole Recipe

Looking for a hearty, flavorful, and cheesy dish that will satisfy the whole family? This Meatball Casserole is the perfect comfort food that combines tender homemade (or store-bought) meatballs, marinara sauce, pasta, and lots of melted cheese, all baked to perfection. Whether you're preparing a weeknight dinner or feeding a crowd, this recipe will hit the spot. Stick around for the step-by-step instructions and some helpful tips to make it your new go-to casserole!

this Recipe

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What is Meatball Casserole?

Meatball casserole is a delicious, baked dish featuring meatballs nestled in marinara sauce, mixed with cooked pasta, and topped with gooey melted cheese. It’s essentially a deconstructed version of spaghetti and meatballs but baked into a casserole for added flavor and convenience. This recipe combines savory, juicy meatballs with a cheesy, comforting sauce that will leave everyone asking for seconds.

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Ingredients List for Meatball Casserole

To make this mouthwatering casserole, here’s what you’ll need:

Meatballs:

1. Ground Beef: 1 pound (80% lean is ideal for flavor and tenderness)
2. Ground Pork: ½ pound (optional, but adds extra flavor)
3. Breadcrumbs: ½ cup
4. Parmesan Cheese: ¼ cup, grated
5. Garlic: 2-3 cloves, minced
6. Egg: 1 large
7. Fresh Parsley: 2 tablespoons, chopped (or 1 tablespoon dried)
8. Italian Seasoning: 1 teaspoon
9. Salt and Pepper: To taste
10. Olive Oil: For browning the meatballs

Casserole:

1. Pasta: 12 ounces (penne, ziti, or rigatoni work great)
2. Marinara Sauce: 3 cups (store-bought or homemade)
3. Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: 2 cups
4. Shredded Parmesan Cheese: ½ cup
5. Fresh Basil or Parsley: For garnish (optional)

Optional Seasonings:

• Red Pepper Flakes: A pinch, for a little heat
• Oregano: 1 teaspoon
• Garlic Powder: ½ teaspoon

These ingredients come together to create a rich, cheesy, and filling casserole that’s perfect for any occasion.

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Substitutions and Variations

This meatball casserole is very versatile, and you can easily adapt it to your taste or dietary preferences:

1. Meat: Instead of beef and pork, you can use ground chicken, turkey, or plant-based meat for a lighter or vegetarian version.
2. Pasta: While short pasta like penne or ziti is traditional, feel free to use any pasta shape you have on hand. Gluten-free pasta can also be substituted for a gluten-free dish.
3. Cheese: While mozzarella and Parmesan are the stars, you can mix in other cheeses like provolone, cheddar, or ricotta for a creamier texture.
4. Marinara Sauce: Use any tomato-based sauce you prefer, or switch things up with a spicy arrabbiata or a creamy Alfredo sauce for a twist on the original.
5. Vegetarian Option: Swap the meatballs for plant-based meatballs or roasted vegetables like mushrooms and zucchini for a veggie-packed version.
6. Make It Spicy: Add crushed red pepper flakes, diced jalapeños, or a spicy marinara sauce to give your casserole a kick of heat.

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Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Let’s dive into the details of making this delicious meatball casserole:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

1. Boil the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta until al dente (firm to the bite) according to the package instructions.
2. Drain and Set Aside: Drain the pasta and set it aside while you prepare the meatballs and sauce.

Step 3: Make the Meatballs

1. Mix the Meatball Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork (if using), breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, egg, parsley, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overwork the meat mixture.
2. Form the Meatballs: Roll the mixture into 1- to 1.5-inch balls. You should have about 18-24 meatballs.
3. Brown the Meatballs: Heat a drizzle of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs in batches and brown them on all sides, about 6-8 minutes total. You don’t need to cook them all the way through; they will finish cooking in the oven.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

1. Combine Pasta and Sauce: In a large bowl, mix the cooked pasta with the marinara sauce until the pasta is well coated.
2. Layer the Casserole: Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish. Spread half of the pasta and sauce mixture in an even layer on the bottom of the dish. Place half of the browned meatballs on top, then sprinkle with half of the shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Repeat with the remaining pasta, meatballs, and cheeses.

Step 5: Bake the Casserole

1. Cover and Bake: Cover the casserole with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.
2. Uncover and Bake: Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly.

Step 6: Rest and Serve

1. Let It Rest: Once baked, allow the casserole to rest for 5 minutes before serving. This will help the layers set and make it easier to scoop out portions.
2. Garnish: Sprinkle with fresh parsley or basil for a pop of color and added flavor.

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

Here’s a quick recap of the steps to make this delicious Meatball Casserole:

1. Cook the Pasta: Boil pasta until al dente and set aside.
2. Make the Meatballs: Mix ground meat with breadcrumbs, cheese, and seasoning, then form into balls and brown them.
3. Assemble the Casserole: Layer the cooked pasta, sauce, meatballs, and cheese in a baking dish.
4. Bake: Cover with foil, bake for 20 minutes, then uncover and bake until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
5. Rest and Serve: Let the casserole rest before serving and garnish with fresh herbs.

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Overcooking the Pasta: Make sure to cook the pasta just until al dente. It will continue to cook in the oven, and you don’t want it to become too soft.
2. Overworking the Meatballs: Be gentle when mixing the meatball ingredients. Overworking the meat can make the meatballs tough and dry.
3. Skipping the Browning Step: Browning the meatballs before baking adds extra flavor and texture. Don’t skip this step—it makes a big difference!
4. Using Too Much Sauce: While you want the pasta to be well-coated, adding too much sauce can make the casserole watery. Stick to about 3 cups of sauce for a good balance.

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Serving and Presentation Tips

How to Serve Meatball Casserole:

• Portioning: Scoop out the casserole using a large spoon, or cut it into squares for a more structured presentation.
• Side Dishes: Serve with a simple green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.

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Presentation Ideas for Meatball Casserole:

• Garnish: Top with fresh basil, parsley, or extra Parmesan cheese to give the casserole a fresh, vibrant look.
• Serving Dish: Use a colorful or rustic baking dish to elevate the presentation, especially if serving for guests or a potluck.

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Meatball Casserole Recipe Tips

• Make It Ahead: You can prepare this casserole ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap and foil.
• Freezing Option: Meatball casserole freezes well! Assemble the dish, wrap it tightly, and freeze it for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before baking.
• Leftovers: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use frozen meatballs for this casserole?

Yes, you can use store-bought frozen meatballs to save time. Just thaw them first or bake according to the package instructions before adding them to the casserole.

Can I freeze Meatball Casserole?

Absolutely! You can freeze the assembled casserole before baking. Be sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the fridge, then bake as directed.

How long do leftovers last?

Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or reheat the entire casserole in the oven.

Can I make this casserole gluten-free?

Yes! Simply use gluten-free pasta and breadcrumbs to make this recipe gluten-free. Ensure your marinara sauce is also gluten-free by checking the label.

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Conclusion

This Meatball Casserole is the perfect combination of savory meatballs, cheesy goodness, and comforting pasta, all baked into a hearty and satisfying dish. It’s an easy recipe that’s ideal for feeding a crowd or preparing ahead for busy weeknights. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious, family-favorite casserole that everyone will love! So grab your ingredients, get cooking, and enjoy this cheesy masterpiece tonight!

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