Description
This Meatball Casserole is a hearty and comforting Italian-American dish featuring tender ground beef meatballs baked in a rich marinara sauce, topped with melted mozzarella cheese. Perfect for an easy weeknight dinner, it combines classic flavors with simple ingredients to create a delicious and satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Meatballs
- 1 1/2 pounds ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Sauce and Topping
- 3 cups marinara sauce
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Other
- Nonstick cooking spray or olive oil for greasing
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Baking Dish: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray or olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Make the Meatball Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, egg, minced garlic, dried Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Mix gently until just combined; avoid overmixing to keep the meatballs tender.
- Form Meatballs: Shape the mixture into 1 1/2-inch diameter meatballs and arrange them evenly in the prepared baking dish.
- Add Sauce and Initial Bake: Pour the marinara sauce evenly over the meatballs, covering them. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
- Add Cheese and Finish Baking: Remove the foil carefully. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the meatballs and bake uncovered for an additional 10 to 15 minutes, until the meatballs are fully cooked through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from oven, optionally garnish with fresh chopped parsley, and serve hot. This casserole pairs well with pasta, crusty bread, or a fresh side salad.
Notes
- Use ground turkey or chicken as a lighter alternative to beef.
- Add crushed red pepper flakes to the meat mixture for a spicy kick.
- Serve alongside pasta, crusty bread, or a side salad for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
