Cheesy Meatball Casserole Recipe

There’s something magical about a dish that combines the heartiness of tender meatballs, the richness of marinara sauce, and the gooey satisfaction of melted cheese. This Cheesy Meatball Casserole is your ticket to a comforting family dinner, a crowd-pleaser at potlucks, or even an excellent meal prep idea. With its balance of textures and flavors, this casserole is simple to prepare, leaving you with plenty of time to enjoy the smiles it brings to the table.

Whether you’re an experienced home chef or a kitchen novice, this recipe will guide you through each step. By the end, you’ll have a golden-baked casserole that’s bubbling with cheesy goodness, ready to become a household favorite.

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, for garnish)

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Meatballs

1. Preheat your oven to 190°C (375°F) and grease a baking dish lightly with oil or cooking spray.
2. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, minced garlic, parsley, paprika, black pepper, and salt. Mix the ingredients gently but thoroughly until well incorporated.
3. Shape the mixture into meatballs, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. This recipe makes approximately 18-20 meatballs.

Step 2: Sear the Meatballs

1. Heat a large skillet over medium heat with a drizzle of oil.
2. Add the meatballs in batches and sear them on all sides until they are lightly browned. This step locks in the juices and enhances the flavor.
3. Once seared, transfer the meatballs to the prepared baking dish.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

1. In the same skillet, combine the marinara sauce, heavy cream, dried oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well to blend the flavors.
2. Simmer the sauce over low heat for about 5 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

1. Pour the prepared sauce evenly over the meatballs in the baking dish.
2. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese generously over the top, followed by the grated Parmesan cheese.

Step 5: Bake the Casserole

1. Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, golden, and bubbly.
2. Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for about 5 minutes.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

1. Garnish the casserole with chopped chives or parsley for a fresh, vibrant touch.
2. Serve warm, either as a standalone dish or paired with crusty bread, pasta, or a side salad.

This Cheesy Meatball Casserole is more than just a dish—it’s a cozy hug on a plate. From the tender, perfectly seasoned meatballs to the creamy marinara sauce and the golden, cheesy topping, every bite is pure comfort. It’s versatile enough to fit any occasion, whether you’re feeding a family on a busy weeknight or impressing guests at a dinner party.

Enjoy this dish fresh from the oven, or store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days. It reheats beautifully, making it a fantastic meal prep option for busy weeks. Give this recipe a try, and watch it become a staple in your kitchen rotation.

Bon appétit! 🍽️