Meatball Casserole is a hearty, family-friendly dish that combines juicy meatballs with gooey cheese and tangy marinara, all baked into a comforting one-pan meal. It’s the perfect solution for a busy evening when you crave something satisfying without hours in the kitchen. This recipe leans on classic Italian flavors, making it a crowd-pleaser for kids and adults alike. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a potluck star, this casserole brings warmth to the table.
Meal Setup and Gathering:

20 Minutes

35 Minutes

6
Equipment Needed:
- Large mixing bowl: Combines meatball ingredients evenly.
- Baking dish (9×13 inch): Holds the casserole for even baking.
- Skillet: Browns the meatballs for extra flavor.
- Spatula: Transfers meatballs and mixes ingredients easily.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef: Forms the base of the juicy meatballs.
- ½ cup breadcrumbs: Binds the meatballs and adds texture.
- 1 egg: Helps hold the meatball mixture together.
- 2 cups marinara sauce: Adds tangy, tomatoey goodness to the dish.
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella: Melts into a gooey, cheesy topping.
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan: Sprinkles a sharp, salty finish.
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning: Boosts flavor with herbaceous notes.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Seasons the meatballs perfectly.
Procedure:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper; mix well.
- Shape mixture into 1-inch meatballs (about 20-24).
- Heat a skillet over medium heat and brown meatballs for 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally.
- Spread 1 cup marinara sauce in the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Arrange browned meatballs evenly over the sauce.
- Pour remaining marinara over meatballs and top with mozzarella and Parmesan.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Let cool for 5 minutes before serving.
Nutrition Information
- Serving Size: 1 cup (about 1/6 of a 9×13-inch casserole)
- Calories: ~600-650 kcal
- Total Fat: ~35-40g
- Saturated Fat: ~15g
- Cholesterol: ~100-120mg
- Sodium: ~900-1100mg
- Total Carbohydrates: ~40-45g
- Dietary Fiber: ~4g
- Sugars: ~7g
- Protein: ~35-40g
- Vitamins/Minerals (approximate):
- Vitamin A: ~900-1000 IU
- Vitamin C: ~10-12mg
- Calcium: ~250-300mg
- Iron: ~3-4mg
Top Meatball Cookbooks
“The Meatball Shop Cookbook” by Daniel Holzman, Michael Chernow, and Lauren DeenThis book brings the flavors of New York’s beloved Meatball Shop to your kitchen with nearly 100 recipes, from classic Bolognese meatballs to creative options like spicy buffalo chicken balls, plus sauces and sides.Buy The Meatball Shop Cookbook At Amazon
“Meatballs: The Ultimate Cookbook” by Ellen BrownA comprehensive guide featuring a wide variety of meatball recipes, including gluten-free, vegetarian, and vegan options, paired with stunning photography and expert tips for perfect meatballs every time.Buy Meatballs: The Ultimate Cookbook At Amazon
“The Meatball Cookbook: Great Balls of Fire” by Jez FelwickWritten by a street food chef known as “The Bowler,” this cookbook offers over 70 bold and flavorful meatball recipes, from pork and beef to fish and veggie balls, with unique sauces and sides to match.Buy The Meatball Cookbook: Great Balls of Fire At Amazon
Conclusion:
This Meatball Casserole is a deliciously simple way to bring Italian comfort to your table, with tender meatballs nestled in a cheesy, saucy blanket. It’s versatile enough to customize with your favorite spices or sides like garlic bread or a green salad. The leftovers taste even better the next day, making it a meal prep win.
FAQs:
1Can I use turkey instead of beef?
Yes, it’s leaner but still tasty.2How long do meatball casserole leftovers last?
Up to 4 days in the fridge.3Can I freeze the meatball casserole?
Yes, freeze before baking for up to 3 months.4What if I don’t have breadcrumbs?
Use crushed crackers or oats.5Can I add veggies to the meatball casserole?
Peppers or mushrooms work great.6Is store-bought marinara okay?
Absolutely, choose a good quality one.7Can I make it ahead?
Assemble and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.8Why are my meatballs dry?
Overmixing or overcooking could be the cause.9Can I use a different cheese in the meatball casserole?
Cheddar or provolone work too.10How do I reheat the meatball casserole?
Oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes.
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