Meatballs casserole is a baked dish that combines meatballs with various ingredients like pasta, vegetables, sauce (usually marinara or a creamy sauce), and cheese. It’s typically layered or mixed in a baking dish and baked until hot and bubbly, often with melted cheese on top.
Here’s a basic idea of what it includes:
- Meatballs: Homemade or store-bought, usually made with ground beef, pork, or a mix.
- Pasta or Potatoes (optional): Cooked pasta (like penne or spaghetti) or sometimes sliced potatoes can be added.
- Sauce: Marinara, tomato sauce, Alfredo, or even cream of mushroom, depending on the recipe style.
- Cheese: Mozzarella, cheddar, or Parmesan—used on top or mixed in.
- Vegetables (optional): Bell peppers, onions, mushrooms, or spinach.
It’s a cozy, comfort-food kind of dish—perfect for feeding a crowd or meal prepping.
Sure! Here’s a classic Meatballs Casserole recipe with pasta and marinara sauce—super comforting and easy to make.
Meatballs Casserole Recipe
Serves: 4–6
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: ~50 mins
Ingredients
For the meatballs:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef (or mix beef/pork)
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- 2 tbsp milk
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt & pepper to taste
For the casserole:
- 2 cups cooked pasta (penne or rotini work well)
- 2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella
- Extra Parmesan for topping (optional)
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Make the meatballs:
In a bowl, mix all meatball ingredients until well combined. Roll into 1-inch balls and place on a lined baking sheet.
Bake for 15–20 minutes until cooked through and lightly browned. - Cook pasta:
While the meatballs bake, cook pasta according to package directions. Drain and set aside. - Assemble the casserole:
In a large baking dish, mix the cooked pasta with half the marinara sauce. Add the baked meatballs on top. Pour the rest of the sauce over everything. Sprinkle mozzarella cheese all over. - Bake:
Cover with foil and bake for 15 minutes. Then remove foil and bake another 10 minutes until cheese is bubbly and slightly golden. - Serve:
Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired. Serve hot!