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–+ servings
Meatball Casserole

Cozy and Cheesy Meatball Casserole for Instant Comfort

This Meatball Casserole combines tender meatballs, gooey cheese, and baked pasta for a comforting meal.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Resting Time 10 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 20 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Meatballs
  • 1 lb Ground Meat (Beef/Turkey/Chicken) Leaner option can be replaced with ground turkey.
  • 1 cup Bread Crumbs Use gluten-free breadcrumbs for a gluten-free version.
  • 1 large Eggs Acts as a binder.
  • 2 cloves Garlic (minced) Garlic powder can be substituted.
For the Casserole
  • 2 cups Marinara Sauce Opt for no-sugar-added for a healthier choice.
  • 12 oz Cooked Pasta (Penne/Rigatoni/Ziti) Use your favorite pasta shape.
  • 2 cups Mozzarella Cheese Substitute with dairy-free cheese for a dairy-free option.
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese No substitutes recommended.
For the Finishing Touch
  • 1 teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes Adjust according to your heat preference.
  • 1/4 cup Fresh Parsley/Basil Perfect for garnish.

Equipment

  • Oven
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Baking Dish
  • Baking Sheet

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions for Meatball Casserole
  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground meat, breadcrumbs, eggs, minced garlic, and salt.
  3. Form the mixture into small balls (1 to 1½ inches) and place on a baking sheet.
  4. Bake the meatballs for 15 to 18 minutes at 400°F (200°C) until browned.
  5. Spread cooked pasta in the baking dish, then pour marinara sauce over it.
  6. Nestle the baked meatballs into the marinara sauce.
  7. Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top.
  8. Optional: Sprinkle red pepper flakes over the cheese layer.
  9. Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes, then uncover and bake for an additional 5 to 10 minutes.
  10. Allow to rest for 5 to 10 minutes before serving; garnish with fresh herbs.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 30gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 3gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 10IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 20mgIron: 15mg

Notes

Ensure the marinara and cheese are evenly spread for the best flavor. Watch the bake time closely to avoid dryness.

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