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Cheesy Meatball Casserole Recipe

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4.3 from 66 reviews

A delicious and comforting Cheesy Meatball Casserole featuring tender baked meatballs smothered in marinara sauce and topped with melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Perfect for an easy weeknight dinner or meal prep.

Ingredients

Meatballs

  • 2 pounds extra lean ground beef (90-93% lean)
  • 1 small yellow or white onion, finely diced
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 cloves garlic, finely minced
  • ½ cup Italian breadcrumbs or seasoned breadcrumbs
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
  • ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, or to taste
  • ½ to 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

Casserole

  • 2 cups marinara sauce
  • 2 cups shredded Mozzarella cheese
  • 1 cup finely shredded or grated Parmesan cheese
  • Fresh basil or parsley (optional, for garnishing)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Meatballs: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with foil for easier cleanup. Spray the foil with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
  2. Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, diced onion, egg, minced garlic, breadcrumbs, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes if using. Gently mix with clean hands or a wooden spoon, being careful not to overwork the mixture to keep the meatballs tender.
  3. Form Meatballs: Using a 1 to 2 tablespoon scoop, form approximately 32 uniform meatballs. Place them evenly spaced on the prepared baking sheet.
  4. Bake Meatballs: Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes, or until cooked through. Larger meatballs may require up to 20 minutes. Check to ensure they are done before proceeding.
  5. Assemble the Casserole: Spray a 2.5 to 3-quart casserole dish or a 9×13-inch baking pan with cooking spray. Transfer the cooked meatballs into the dish in a single layer.
  6. Add Sauce and Cheese: Evenly drizzle the marinara sauce over the meatballs. Then, sprinkle the mozzarella cheese followed by the Parmesan cheese evenly on top.
  7. Bake the Casserole: Bake uncovered at 375°F for 10 to 15 minutes, until the cheese is melted and lightly golden brown.
  8. Garnish and Serve: Optionally, garnish with fresh basil or parsley. Serve immediately while hot and cheesy.

Notes

  • Do not overmix the meat mixture to avoid tough meatballs.
  • Meatballs can be made in advance and refrigerated for up to 48 hours before assembling the casserole.
  • Leftovers store well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
  • Reheat leftovers in the microwave for about 30 seconds or until heated through.
  • You can adjust the amount of crushed red pepper flakes to control the heat level.

Find it online: https://deliciousyum.com/cheesy-meatball-casserole-recipe/