Irresistible Cheesy Meatball Casserole Recipe to Savor

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Imagine a bubbling, cheesy meatball casserole that wafts delightful aromas through your kitchen, calling to everyone like a siren’s song. The layers of savory meatballs and gooey cheese melt together in perfect harmony, creating an irresistible dish that you can’t help but savor. Thai chicken meatballs in curry You might just find yourself doing a little happy dance as you pull it from the oven.

As I watch my family’s eyes light up at the sight of this cheesy wonder, I’m reminded of cozy nights spent with loved ones gathered around the dinner table. Whether it’s a weeknight meal or a special occasion, this cheesy meatball casserole is sure to become a beloved favorite. Prepare yourself for an explosion of flavors that will leave you craving more! For more inspiration, check out this Cheesy Sausage Egg Sliders recipe.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • This cheesy meatball casserole is not only easy to prepare, but it also bursts with rich flavors
  • You can customize the ingredients based on your preference or what you have handy
  • It looks stunning when served, making it an eye-catching centerpiece for any meal
  • Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or even cozy date nights at home

I remember the first time I made this cheesy meatball casserole; my friends devoured it and demanded seconds. Their delighted reactions were priceless!

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

  • Ground Beef: Choose lean ground beef for juicy meatballs without excessive grease. baked beef cannelloni with mozzarella.

  • Breadcrumbs: Regular or Italian breadcrumbs work well for binding and adding texture. spaghetti garlic bread bowls.

  • Eggs: Use large eggs to help bind your meatballs together perfectly.

  • Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan adds a rich, savory flavor to the meatballs.

  • Mozzarella Cheese: Shredded mozzarella creates that glorious stretchy topping we all adore.

  • Marinara Sauce: Choose your favorite jarred sauce or homemade for an extra touch of flavor.

  • Italian Herbs: A blend of oregano and basil brings an aromatic freshness to every bite.

  • Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to elevate all the flavors in this dish.

For the Topping:

  • Fresh Basil Leaves: Garnish with fresh basil for a pop of color and aroma before serving.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below. pulled beef sandwich recipe.

Let’s Make it Together

Prepare the Meatballs: In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, eggs, Parmesan cheese, Italian herbs, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined; don’t overwork it!

Shape into Meatballs: Roll the mixture into golf ball-sized meatballs and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Aim for uniformity so they cook evenly.

Bake the Meatballs: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the meatballs for about 20 minutes until they’re golden brown and cooked through.

Add Marinara Sauce: In a large casserole dish, spread half of the marinara sauce evenly across the bottom. Layer half of your baked meatballs on top.

Layer with Cheese**: Sprinkle half of the shredded mozzarella over the meatballs followed by another layer of marinara sauce. Repeat with remaining meatballs and cheese.

Bake Until Golden**: Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake another 10 minutes until cheese is bubbly and slightly golden.

Now you’ve transformed simple ingredients into a mouthwatering cheesy meatball casserole!

Serve hot from the oven for maximum cheesiness and enjoy every delightful bite while basking in compliments from family and friends!

You Must Know

  • Cheesy Meatball Casserole is a comfort food classic that combines melty cheese and savory meatballs with easy prep
  • The dish’s aroma fills your kitchen, promising deliciousness
  • Perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in, it’s a sure way to please everyone at the table

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by baking the meatballs until golden, then layer with sauce and cheese for perfect melding of flavors.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap ground turkey or chicken for beef, and add veggies like bell peppers for extra crunch.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days; reheat gently in the oven or microwave.

Chef's Helpful Tips

  • To avoid dry meatballs, mix ground meat with breadcrumbs and egg thoroughly
  • Use fresh herbs for a burst of flavor
  • Don’t skimp on cheese; it’s what makes this casserole irresistible!

Cooking this Cheesy Meatball Casserole always brings back memories of family dinners filled with laughter and good food. My kids still ask for it every week!

FAQs

FAQ

Can I use frozen meatballs for Cheesy Meatball Casserole?

Yes, just increase cooking time slightly to ensure they heat through.

What cheese works best in this casserole?

Mozzarella is ideal, but cheddar adds a delightful twist too.

Can I make Cheesy Meatball Casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! Assemble it, refrigerate overnight, and bake when ready to serve.

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Cheesy Meatball Casserole


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  • Author: Larissa W.
  • Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
  • Yield: Serves approximately 6

Description

Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this easy-to-make Cheesy Meatball Casserole. Bursting with flavor, this dish features tender meatballs nestled under a gooey layer of melted mozzarella and rich marinara sauce. Perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in, you’ll find every bite is a delightful explosion of cheesy goodness that keeps everyone coming back for more.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound lean ground beef
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs (Italian or regular)
  • 1 large egg
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 2 cups marinara sauce (homemade or jarred)
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper until just mixed.
  3. Roll mixture into golf ball-sized meatballs and place them on a lined baking sheet.
  4. Bake meatballs for 20 minutes or until golden brown.
  5. In a casserole dish, spread half of the marinara sauce on the bottom. Layer half of the meatballs over the sauce.
  6. Sprinkle half of the mozzarella cheese on top followed by another layer of marinara sauce and remaining meatballs.
  7. Finish with the rest of the mozzarella cheese.
  8. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes, then remove foil and bake an additional 10 minutes until cheese is bubbly.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 55 minutes
  • Category: Main
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 430
  • Sugar: 6g
  • Sodium: 850mg
  • Fat: 24g
  • Saturated Fat: 10g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 25g
  • Cholesterol: 80mg

Tags:

baking / casserole dish / cheesy dinner / comfort food / easy recipe / family meal / meatball recipe / savory dish

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