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Meatball Casserole: A Comforting Family Favorite

Meatball Casserole
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A hearty, comforting casserole featuring tender homemade meatballs smothered in marinara sauce and melted cheese, layered with pasta for the ultimate family-friendly meal. This all-in-one dish is perfect for weeknight dinners or potluck gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • For the Meatballs:
  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 lb ground pork
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1 tsp dried basil
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • For the Casserole:
  • 12 oz pasta (penne, rigatoni, or ziti)
  • 24 oz marinara sauce
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • ½ cup ricotta cheese
  • ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
  2. Make Meatballs: In a large bowl, combine all meatball ingredients. Form into 1-inch balls (about 24 total).
  3. Brown meatballs in batches in a skillet over medium heat (they don’t need to be fully cooked). Set aside.
  4. Cook pasta al dente according to package directions. Drain.
  5. Assemble: Spread ½ cup marinara in baking dish. Layer half the pasta, half the remaining sauce, all meatballs, ricotta dollops, then remaining pasta and sauce.
  6. Top with mozzarella and parsley. Cover with foil.
  7. Bake 25 minutes. Uncover and bake 10 more minutes until bubbly and golden.
  8. Let rest 10 minutes before serving.

Notes

  • Time-saver: Use 24 frozen pre-cooked meatballs
  • Make ahead: Assemble up to 24 hours before baking
  • Freezer-friendly: Bake, cool completely, and freeze for up to 3 months
  • Vegetarian option: Substitute meatballs with plant-based alternatives
  • For extra flavor: Add ¼ cup red wine to the marinara sauce

Nutrition

Find it online: https://us.recipesfood.org/meatball-casserole-recipe/

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