Cheesy Meatball Casserole

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There’s something magical about the combination of cheesy goodness and hearty meatballs baked to perfection. This Cheesy Meatball Casserole is a crowd-pleaser, offering tender, flavorful meatballs coated in a rich marinara sauce and topped with gooey, melted cheese.

Whether you’re preparing dinner for your family or hosting a potluck, this dish is sure to impress. It’s not just delicious—it’s simple and quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.

PREPARATION TIME

  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Total Time: 55 minutes

INGREDIENTS

For the Meatballs:
  • 500g (1 lb) ground beef
  • 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1 egg
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 tbsp chopped parsley
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 tsp salt
For the Sauce:
  • 2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 tsp dried oregano
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
For the Topping:
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tbsp chopped chives or parsley (optional garnish)

INSTRUCTIONS

Step 1: Prepare the Meatballs
  1. Preheat your oven to 190°C (375°F).
  2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, minced garlic, parsley, paprika, black pepper, and salt. Mix thoroughly until well blended.

  1. Shape the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter, and place them on a baking tray lined with parchment paper.

  1. Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes or until lightly browned. Set aside.
Step 2: Make the Sauce
  1. While the meatballs are baking, prepare the sauce.

  1. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine marinara sauce, heavy cream, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well and simmer for 5 minutes. Remove from heat.
Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
  1. In a large casserole dish, pour a thin layer of the prepared sauce at the bottom.

  1. Arrange the baked meatballs evenly in the dish.

  1. Pour the remaining sauce over the meatballs, ensuring they are fully coated.

  1. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top, followed by the grated Parmesan.
Step 4: Bake and Garnish
  1. Place the casserole dish in the oven and bake for 20 minutes or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown.

  1. Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes.
  2. Garnish with chopped chives or parsley before serving.

SERVING SUGGESTIONS

This Cheesy Meatball Casserole pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad, crusty garlic bread, or buttered noodles. It’s also versatile enough to be served with steamed vegetables or rice for a complete, balanced meal.

Here are some delicious variations you can try for your Cheesy Meatball Casserole:

  1. Different Meats: Instead of ground beef, you can use ground turkey, chicken, or pork for a lighter option. You could also mix different meats for added flavor.

  1. Cheese Options: Experiment with different types of cheese. Try using cheddar, pepper jack, or a blend of Italian cheeses for a unique taste.

  1. Veggie Add-ins: Incorporate sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach into the meatball mixture or the sauce for added nutrition and flavor.

  1. Spice it Up: Add some heat by including red pepper flakes in the sauce or mixing in some chopped jalapeños with the meatballs.

  1. Pasta Layer: For a heartier dish, layer cooked pasta (like penne or rotini) in the casserole, combining it with the meatballs and sauce before adding the cheese topping.

  1. Herbs and Seasonings: Play around with different herbs like basil, thyme, or Italian seasoning to enhance the flavor of the sauce and meatballs.

  1. Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or oats in the meatballs to make it suitable for gluten-sensitive individuals.

Here are some helpful tips for making your Cheesy Meatball Casserole even better:

  1. Meatball Consistency: Make sure not to overmix the meatball mixture. Just mix until everything is combined to keep them tender.

  1. Browning the Meatballs: For extra flavor, consider searing the meatballs in a skillet before baking them. This adds a nice crust and enhances the overall taste.

  1. Sauce Thickness: If you prefer a thicker sauce, let it simmer on the stove for a few minutes before adding it to the casserole. This will help concentrate the flavors.

  1. Cheese Layering: For a more even cheese melt, sprinkle half of the cheese in the middle of the casserole and the rest on top.

  1. Resting Time: Allow the casserole to rest for about 10 minutes after baking. This helps it set and makes serving easier.

  1. Storage: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat in the oven or microwave.

  1. Freezing: You can also freeze the casserole before baking. Just cover it tightly with foil and store it for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake it, thaw it overnight in the fridge and then bake as directed.

To store your Cheesy Meatball Casserole, follow these steps:

  1. Cool Down: Allow the casserole to cool completely at room temperature before storing. This helps prevent condensation, which can make the dish soggy.

  1. Airtight Container: Transfer the casserole to an airtight container. If you have leftovers, you can also portion them into smaller containers for individual servings.

  1. Refrigeration: Store the casserole in the refrigerator if you plan to eat it within 3 days. It’s best to consume it within this time for optimal freshness.

  1. Freezing: If you want to store it for a longer period, you can freeze the casserole. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil, or use a freezer-safe container. It can last in the freezer for up to 3 months.

  1. Reheating: When you’re ready to eat, reheat the casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or microwave individual portions until warm.

Comfort food at its finest, this Cheesy Meatball Casserole combines simple ingredients with bold flavors for a meal that’s as easy to make as it is delicious. The tender meatballs, rich marinara cream sauce, and gooey cheese topping come together to create a dish that feels indulgent but is surprisingly easy to prepare. Try this recipe for your next dinner, and watch as it becomes a new family favorite. With just 55 minutes of total prep and cooking time, it’s perfect for any day of the week!

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