baked meatball casserole

Oh yes — a Baked Meatball Casserole is the perfect cozy, hearty dish! 🍝 It’s like spaghetti and meatballs got upgraded to a gooey, baked, cheesy casserole. Here’s a full recipe:

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🥘 Baked Meatball Casserole

Serves 4–6

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Ingredients

For the Meatballs:

• 1 lb ground beef (or mix beef + pork)

• ½ cup breadcrumbs

• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 1 large egg

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tsp Italian seasoning

• Salt & pepper, to taste

For the Casserole:

• 2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)

• 8 oz cooked pasta (optional: penne, rigatoni, or spaghetti broken into pieces)

• 1 ½ cups mozzarella cheese, shredded

• ¼ cup Parmesan cheese, grated

• Fresh basil or parsley for garnish

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Instructions

1. Make the meatballs

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).

2. In a large bowl, combine all meatball ingredients.

3. Shape into 1–1½ inch meatballs and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

4. Bake 12–15 minutes, until browned and almost cooked through.

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2. Assemble the casserole

1. Lower oven temperature to 375°F (190°C).

2. In a baking dish, spread a thin layer of marinara sauce.

3. Arrange meatballs on top.

4. If using pasta, mix it with remaining sauce and layer over or under meatballs.

5. Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.

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3. Bake

• Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, until cheese is melted and bubbly.

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4. Serve

• Garnish with fresh basil or parsley.

• Serve hot with garlic bread or a simple side salad.

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💡 Tips for Extra Flavor

• Brown meatballs in a skillet first for deeper flavor.

• Add red pepper flakes for a little heat.

• Mix Italian herbs or a bit of onion powder into the sauce for extra richness.

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I can also give a “cheesy, layered, lasagna-style baked meatball casserole” version that’s even more indulgent if you want it to be extra hearty. Do you want me to do that?