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Cheesy Meatballs Casserole

Cheesy Meatballs Casserole: Comfort in Every Gooey Bite

Cheesy Meatballs Casserole combines succulent meatballs in marinara sauce topped with gooey cheese, making it a comforting crowd-pleaser.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Resting Time 5 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Meatballs
  • 1 lb Ground Beef Substitute with ground chicken or turkey for lighter option.
  • 1 cup Breadcrumbs Use fresh or Italian-seasoned for extra flavor.
  • 1/2 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese Nutritional yeast can be a great vegan alternative.
  • 1 large Egg Can be replaced with chia or flaxseed meal for vegan option.
  • 2 cloves Garlic Minced, always opt for fresh garlic.
  • 1 tbsp Italian Seasoning Feel free to swap with individual dried herbs like oregano and basil.
  • 1 tbsp Salt Adjust to taste.
  • 1 tbsp Pepper Adjust to taste.
For the Casserole
  • 2 cups Marinara Sauce Use high-quality or homemade for better flavor.
  • 2 cups Shredded Mozzarella Cheese Low-moisture mozzarella is best for melting.
  • 1/4 cup Fresh Parsley For garnishing; optional basil or oregano can be used.

Equipment

  • Oven
  • mixing bowl
  • baking sheet
  • casserole dish

Method
 

Preparation Steps
  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and position the oven rack in the center.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, egg, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until blended.
  3. Roll the mixture into golf ball-sized meatballs and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
  4. Bake the meatballs for about 20 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
  5. In a large casserole dish, pour half of the marinara sauce, then layer the cooked meatballs, followed by the remaining sauce.
  6. Top with shredded mozzarella and additional grated Parmesan cheese.
  7. Bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  8. Let the casserole cool for a few minutes, then garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 25gFat: 28gSaturated Fat: 12gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 850mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 2gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 400IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 250mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Best served hot, pair with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.

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