Description
Say hello to your new favorite comfort food: Cheesy Meatball Casserole! Perfect for dinner parties or family meals, this dish combines hearty meatballs with gooey cheese and a rich tomato sauce for a savory treat everyone will love.
Ingredients
- For the Meatballs:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 egg, beaten
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- For the Casserole:
- 12 ounces pasta (penne or rigatoni work well)
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Step 2: Prepare the Meatballs
In a large bowl, mix ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, parsley, garlic, egg, salt, and pepper until combined. Roll the mixture into meatballs, about 1-2 inches in diameter.
Step 3: Cook the Pasta
Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside.
Step 4: Brown the Meatballs
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the meatballs until they are browned on all sides. It is not necessary for them to be cooked through completely at this stage.
Step 5: Assemble the Casserole
In a baking dish, spread a layer of marinara sauce across the bottom. Follow this with half of the cooked pasta.
Step 6: Add the Meatballs and Remaining Ingredients
Place the browned meatballs on top of the pasta layer. Then, cover with the remaining pasta and pour the rest of the marinara sauce over it.
Step 7: Add Cheese and Cover
Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese on top of the casserole. Cover the dish with foil to hold in moisture.
Step 8: Bake the Casserole
Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. After this time, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10 minutes. This will help the cheese become bubbly and golden.
Step 9: Serve
Once finished baking, let the casserole cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your cheesy masterpiece!
Notes
Serving Suggestions
This Cheesy Meatball Casserole pairs well with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
Storage Instructions
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Customization Ideas
Feel free to add vegetables such as spinach or bell peppers to the casserole for extra nutrition and flavor. You can also substitute the ground beef with turkey or chicken if preferred.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes