Cheesy Meatball Casserole

Cheesy Meatball Casserole is a hearty and comforting dish that combines tender meatballs with rich marinara sauce and plenty of gooey cheese. It’s perfect for a family dinner or a potluck gathering. Here’s how you can make it:

Ingredients

For the Meatballs

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1 egg
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For the Casserole

• 3 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
• Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Make the Meatballs

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, milk, egg, garlic, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
3. Form Meatballs: Roll the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 to 1 1/2 inches in diameter, and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake Meatballs: Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the meatballs are browned and cooked through.

Assemble the Casserole

1. Prepare Baking Dish: In a large baking dish, spread 1 cup of marinara sauce on the bottom.
2. Add Meatballs: Place the baked meatballs on top of the sauce.
3. Add More Sauce: Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the meatballs, ensuring they are well covered.
4. Add Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top of the sauce-covered meatballs. Follow with the grated Parmesan cheese.
5. Season: Sprinkle the dried Italian seasoning over the cheese.

Bake the Casserole

1. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden brown on top.

Serve

1. Garnish: Remove from the oven and let cool slightly. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired.
2. Enjoy: Serve hot, on its own, or over pasta, with a side salad and garlic bread.

This Cheesy Meatball Casserole is a delicious and satisfying meal that’s sure to be a hit with everyone. The combination of juicy meatballs, savory marinara sauce, and melted cheese creates a comforting and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any night of the week.

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