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Meatball Casserole Recipe

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Meatball Casserole is a comforting, easy-to-make dish that features tender meatballs, marinara sauce, pasta, and gooey mozzarella cheese. This baked casserole is perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, combining classic Italian flavors in a simple and delicious meal that everyone will love.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb cooked pasta (penne, rigatoni, or ziti)
  • 1 lb ground beef or pork (for homemade meatballs)
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (for meatballs)
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan (for meatballs)
  • 1 egg (for meatballs)
  • 2 cups marinara sauce
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh basil (optional, for garnish)
  • Cooking spray

Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with cooking spray.
  • Prepare the meatballs: In a bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, egg, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Shape into small meatballs and bake at 375°F for 15-20 minutes until browned.
  • Cook the pasta according to package instructions, drain, and set aside.
  • In the prepared dish, layer half of the cooked pasta, half of the marinara sauce, and half of the meatballs. Top with half of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
  • Repeat the layers with the remaining pasta, sauce, meatballs, and cheese.
  • Bake for 20-25 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Garnish with fresh basil if desired, and serve warm.

Notes

  • For convenience, you can use store-bought frozen meatballs.
  • Add extra vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for additional texture and nutrition.
  • This casserole can be made ahead and baked just before serving.

Nutrition