Looking for a hearty and satisfying meal? This meatball casserole combines juicy meatballs, rich marinara sauce, and gooey cheese, all baked to perfection. It’s an ideal dish for a cozy family dinner or a potluck gathering. Easy to prepare and absolutely delicious, this casserole will surely become a favorite in your household. Let’s dive into the recipe and discover how to create this sumptuous dish!
Ingredients
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cups marinara sauce
– 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
– Fresh parsley for garnish
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 6. Preparation time is about 20 minutes, and cooking time is approximately 40 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Per serving (1/6 of the casserole):
– Calories: 350
– Protein: 25g
– Fat: 20g
– Carbohydrates: 20g
– Fiber: 2g
This is based on a single serving for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
3. Mix well and form into meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.
4. In a large skillet, brown the meatballs over medium heat until cooked through.
5. Remove the meatballs and drain excess fat.
6. In a baking dish, spread half of the marinara sauce on the bottom.
7. Place the meatballs on top of the sauce.
8. Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the meatballs.
9. Sprinkle mozzarella cheese evenly over the top.
10. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Alternative Ingredients
Feel free to use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option. You can also substitute marinara sauce with Alfredo sauce for a creamy twist or use gluten-free breadcrumbs for a gluten-free version.
Serving and Pairings
This meatball casserole pairs wonderfully with garlic bread or a fresh green salad. You can also serve it over pasta or rice for a more filling meal.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. This dish can also be frozen for up to 2 months; just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Cooking Mistakes
- Overcooking meatballs can make them dry; ensure they are just cooked through.
- Using too much salt can overpower the dish; season wisely.
- Skipping the browning step may result in less flavor.
- Not allowing the casserole to cool slightly can lead to messy servings.
- Forgetting to cover the dish can cause the cheese to burn.
Helpful Tips
- Use fresh herbs for added flavor.
- Let the casserole sit for a few minutes before serving.
- Experiment with different cheeses for variety.
- Make the meatballs ahead of time for quick assembly.
FAQs
Can I use frozen meatballs?
Yes, frozen meatballs can be used. Just adjust the cooking time as needed to ensure they are heated through.
Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! Meatball casserole reheats well and is perfect for meal prep.
Can I make this casserole vegetarian?
You can use plant-based meat substitutes and a vegetarian sauce for a delicious vegetarian version.
How can I add more vegetables?
Incorporate sautéed bell peppers, onions, or spinach into the sauce for added nutrition.
What sides go well with meatball casserole?
Garlic bread, a crisp salad, or steamed vegetables complement this dish nicely.
Conclusion
Meatball casserole is a delightful dish that’s not only easy to make but also sure to please the whole family. With its savory flavors and comforting texture, it’s perfect for any occasion. Try this recipe today and enjoy a warm, satisfying meal that brings everyone together!
Meatball Casserole
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Mix well and form into meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.
- In a large skillet, brown the meatballs over medium heat until cooked through.
- Remove the meatballs and drain excess fat.
- In a baking dish, spread half of the marinara sauce on the bottom.
- Place the meatballs on top of the sauce.
- Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the meatballs.
- Sprinkle mozzarella cheese evenly over the top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Nutrition
