Meatball Casserole
There’s something irresistibly comforting about a warm, cheesy casserole, and this Meatball Casserole truly hits the mark. As the chilled air of autumn sets in or during the busy holiday season, this dish serves as the perfect centerpiece for family gatherings or cozy weeknight dinners. It wraps tender meatballs in a rich marinara sauce, topped with a golden layer of melted cheese that will have everyone reaching for seconds. The combination of flavors and textures makes this recipe a quick favorite among both kids and adults alike, ensuring that it will become a staple in your meal rotation.
What makes this dish special is its simplicity and versatility. You can prepare it in no time using frozen meatballs, making it a perfect solution for last-minute dinner plans. Serve it with a side of garlic bread or a crisp salad for a complete meal that’s sure to warm hearts and fill bellies. Once you try this Meatball Casserole, you’ll understand why it’s a cherished recipe that keeps families gathered around the table.
This is what the finished dish looks like when perfectly baked.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds frozen meatballs
- 2 cups prepared marinara sauce
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
Gather your ingredients for a deliciously cheesy casserole!
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large baking dish, mix together the frozen meatballs and marinara sauce until the meatballs are well coated.
- Sprinkle the Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper evenly across the top of the meatball and sauce mixture.
- Stir well to ensure the meatballs are fully covered in the sauce.
- Evenly distribute the shredded mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese on top.
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- If desired, garnish with fresh basil before serving hot.
Tips & Variations
- Ingredient Substitutions: You can use homemade meatballs if you prefer fresh, or swap the marinara sauce for another variety of pasta sauce to match your taste.
- Optional Variations: For added flavor, try mixing in some sautéed vegetables like bell peppers or spinach. You can also add red pepper flakes for a little kick!
- Storage and Reheating Tips: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop it back into the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
Recipe Information
- Prep time: 10 minutes
- Cook time: 30 minutes
- Total time: 40 minutes
- Servings: 6-8
- Difficulty level: Easy
Delicious and comforting—this casserole is sure to be a hit!
Meatball Casserole
Ingredients
Main ingredients
- 2 pounds frozen meatballs Use store-bought or homemade.
- 2 cups prepared marinara sauce Feel free to substitute with another pasta sauce.
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese Mozzarella is best for melting.
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese Enhances flavor and texture.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning Can be adjusted to taste.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder For added flavor.
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish (optional) Adds freshness at serving.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large baking dish, mix together the frozen meatballs and marinara sauce until the meatballs are well coated.
- Sprinkle the Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper evenly across the top of the meatball and sauce mixture.
- Stir well to ensure the meatballs are fully covered in the sauce.
- Evenly distribute the shredded mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese on top.
Cooking
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- If desired, garnish with fresh basil before serving hot.