Meatball Casserole Recipe

If you're looking for an easy yet satisfying dinner, look no further than this Meatball Casserole recipe! Bursting with rich flavors of tomato, basil, mozzarella, and hearty Italian-style meatballs, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. With tender penne pasta and gooey melted cheese baked to perfection, it's a delicious meal that will leave everyone at the table asking for seconds. Whether you're cooking for a busy weeknight or prepping for a cozy weekend gathering, this casserole is your go-to solution. Let’s dive into how you can make this mouthwatering meal. Read on for the full step-by-step guide, ingredient lists, and expert tips to perfect this dish every time!

What Is Meatball Casserole?

Meatball Casserole is a delightful baked dish that combines all the best elements of Italian-American comfort food. It features tender pasta, flavorful marinara sauce, melted mozzarella, and juicy meatballs. The casserole is then baked until bubbly and golden, creating a perfect harmony of textures—cheesy, saucy, and hearty. It's a crowd-pleaser that can easily be made ahead of time or frozen for later.

Ingredients List for Meatball Casserole

Here’s a full list of ingredients you’ll need to make this delicious casserole:

• 1 pound penne pasta: Cooked al dente (according to package directions) and drained.
• 32 ounces tomato & basil marinara sauce: I recommend using MIDS brand for a rich, flavorful base, but feel free to use your favorite marinara sauce.
• ¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a sharp, salty flavor to balance out the richness of the dish.
• 2 tablespoons freshly chopped parsley: Divided into 1½ tablespoons and ½ tablespoon. This will be used for garnishing and mixing with the cheese.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Enhances the overall flavor profile of the dish.
• 1 teaspoon onion powder: Provides depth and complements the garlic.
• ½ teaspoon salt: Adjust to taste, as the Parmesan already adds some saltiness.
• 18 frozen Italian-style meatballs: Thawed (1½-inch sized). You can also use homemade meatballs if you prefer.
• 16 ounces mozzarella cheese: Shredded, to ensure it melts evenly and creates that irresistible cheesy layer.

Ingredient List for Meatballs (Optional)

If you'd rather make your own meatballs from scratch for an extra homemade touch, here’s what you’ll need:

• 1 pound ground beef: You can substitute with ground pork, chicken, or turkey if desired.
• 1 egg: Acts as a binder for the meatballs.
• ¼ cup bread crumbs: Helps hold the meatballs together and adds texture.
• 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese: Adds flavor and richness.
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A blend of dried herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme.
• ½ teaspoon salt: Enhances the flavor.
• ½ teaspoon pepper: Adds a slight kick to the meatballs.
• 1 garlic clove, minced: For a fresh and aromatic touch.

Optional Topping:

• Crushed red pepper flakes: For a little heat, sprinkle a pinch on top of your serving.
• Extra mozzarella cheese: Add more if you’re a cheese lover and want an extra cheesy casserole!

Substitutions and Variations

One of the best things about this Meatball Casserole recipe is how customizable it can be. Here are some substitution ideas and variations to suit your preferences:

• Pasta: Swap out penne pasta for ziti, rigatoni, or even fusilli. Any short pasta that holds sauce well will work perfectly.
• Sauce: If you prefer a spicier dish, opt for a spicy marinara or arrabbiata sauce instead of the standard tomato & basil sauce.
• Cheese: Feel free to switch up the cheeses. While mozzarella is traditional, a blend of provolone, ricotta, or fontina can add a unique twist to the dish.
• Meatballs: You can use turkey or chicken meatballs for a lighter version, or try meatballs stuffed with mozzarella for extra cheesy goodness.
• Vegetarian: For a vegetarian version, substitute the meatballs with plant-based meatballs or roasted vegetables like zucchini, eggplant, and bell peppers.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta and breadcrumbs if making homemade meatballs to make the casserole gluten-free.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Here’s a breakdown of how to make this delectable Meatball Casserole:

1. Cook the Pasta

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook your penne pasta according to the package instructions until it’s al dente, usually around 9-11 minutes. Drain and set aside.

2. Preheat the Oven

While the pasta is cooking, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

3. Prepare the Sauce

In a large mixing bowl, combine the marinara sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt. Stir well to ensure that all the spices are evenly distributed throughout the sauce.

4. Assemble the Casserole

In a greased 9x13-inch casserole dish, spread a thin layer of the marinara sauce mixture at the bottom. Add the cooked and drained pasta to the dish. Arrange the thawed meatballs on top of the pasta in an even layer. Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the pasta and meatballs, making sure everything is well coated.

5. Add Cheese and Herbs

Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top of the casserole. Then, sprinkle 1½ tablespoons of freshly chopped parsley over the cheese. Finally, top everything off with the grated Parmesan cheese.

6. Bake the Casserole

Cover the casserole dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. After 20 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and slightly golden on top.

7. Garnish and Serve

Once out of the oven, let the casserole rest for a few minutes. Sprinkle the remaining ½ tablespoon of parsley on top for a fresh burst of color and flavor. Serve hot and enjoy!

How to Cook Meatball Casserole: A Step-by-Step Guide

Cooking Meatball Casserole is as simple as layering pasta, sauce, meatballs, and cheese, then baking it until bubbly and golden. Here’s a condensed step-by-step guide:

1. Cook the pasta until al dente.
2. Preheat the oven to 375°F.
3. Mix the sauce with spices.
4. Layer the pasta and meatballs in the dish.
5. Add mozzarella and Parmesan on top.
6. Bake for 20 minutes covered, then uncover and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes.
7. Garnish with parsley and serve.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking the pasta: Make sure to cook your pasta al dente. It will cook further in the oven, and overcooked pasta can become mushy.
• Not thawing meatballs: Frozen meatballs need to be thawed before baking to ensure they heat through properly during baking.
• Skipping the foil: Covering the casserole ensures the cheese doesn’t brown too quickly. Don’t skip this step!
• Too little sauce: Make sure to coat the pasta and meatballs with enough sauce to prevent the dish from drying out in the oven.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Presentation plays a big role in making your dish appealing. Here are a few tips to help make your Meatball Casserole look as good as it tastes:

• Garnish with fresh parsley: Adding a sprinkle of parsley not only adds flavor but also gives the dish a vibrant pop of color.
• Use a large serving spoon: When serving the casserole, use a large spoon to ensure that each portion includes meatballs, pasta, sauce, and cheese.
• Add extra cheese: Before serving, you can add some freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top for an extra cheesy finish.

How to Serve Meatball Casserole

Serve your Meatball Casserole with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad to balance out the richness of the dish. A glass of red wine, like Chianti or Merlot, pairs beautifully with this Italian-inspired casserole.

Presentation Ideas for Meatball Casserole

• Serve in a rustic ceramic dish for an authentic, homestyle look.
• Garnish with fresh basil leaves or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper for an elevated presentation.
• Offer a grated cheese station on the side so guests can add extra cheese to their plates.

Meatball Casserole Recipe Tips

• Make it ahead: You can assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking.
• Freeze for later: This dish freezes well. Prepare it in a freezer-safe container, cover it tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months.
• Double the batch: If you’re feeding a crowd, simply double the recipe and bake in two separate dishes.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use fresh meatballs instead of frozen?

Yes! You can either use store-bought fresh meatballs or make your own. Just be sure to cook them fully before adding them to the casserole.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely. You can prepare the casserole up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate it until you're ready to bake. Simply add an additional 5-10 minutes to the bake time if baking from cold.

Can I freeze this casserole?

Yes, Meatball Casserole freezes very well. Assemble the casserole, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil, and freeze it for up to 3 months. When ready to cook, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed.

Can I use different types of pasta?

Certainly! Any short pasta like rigatoni, ziti, or fusilli will work in this recipe.

Conclusion

This Meatball Casserole recipe is a true comfort food classic that’s sure to become a regular in your meal rotation. With its savory layers of pasta, sauce, and cheese, it's both filling and flavorful. Whether you’re serving it for a casual weeknight meal or a special gathering, this dish is guaranteed to please everyone. Give it a try and enjoy the delicious, cheesy, and hearty flavors of this incredible casserole. Don’t forget to share your own variations and tips with friends and family—this is a recipe that’s meant to be enjoyed by all!

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