If you’re looking for a comforting, crowd-pleasing dish that brings together all the flavors of a classic Italian dinner in one delicious pan, this Meatball Casserole Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s a soulful blend of juicy, perfectly seasoned meatballs simmered in rich marinara sauce and topped with melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, all served over a bed of tender spaghetti. This recipe isn’t just easy to make; it’s a heartfelt way to gather around the table and share a meal everyone will ask for again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Simple, straightforward ingredients come together in this Meatball Casserole Recipe to create layers of flavor and texture. Each component plays a crucial role—from the tender meatballs to the gooey cheese and vibrant marinara—making it a true comfort food classic you can feel good about serving.
- 1 pound ground beef: The rich, juicy base of your meatballs that holds all the flavors together beautifully.
- 1 large egg: Acts as the perfect binder, keeping the meatballs tender and intact during baking.
- ¾ cup breadcrumbs: Adds texture and helps maintain a soft, but firm bite in the meatballs.
- 1 tablespoon dried minced onions: Infuses subtle onion flavor without added moisture.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A flavorful blend of herbs giving that unmistakable Italian zest.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds warmth and depth without overpowering other flavors.
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper: Brings a gentle heat that balances the richness of the beef.
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt: Enhances every ingredient’s natural flavor, making the dish sing.
- 24 ounces marinara sauce (1 jar): The tangy, tomatoey heart of the casserole that keeps it moist and packed with freshness.
- 8 ounces freshly shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts into ooey-gooey perfection for that classic cheesy layer you crave.
- ¼ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese: Sprinkled on top, it adds a sharp, nutty finish to the casserole.
- 1 pound cooked spaghetti: Serves as the perfect bed to soak up all the delicious sauce and melted cheese.
How to Make Meatball Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. This ensures your meatballs will cook evenly right from the start, giving you that perfect outer sear while locking in all the juiciness inside.
Step 2: Mix the Meatball Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, egg, breadcrumbs, dried minced onions, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, black pepper, and kosher salt. Stir gently but thoroughly, making sure every bite is bursting with flavor.
Step 3: Shape the Meatballs
Roll the mixture into 3-inch balls. Yes, big and hearty! These large meatballs bake beautifully and become the star of the Meatball Casserole Recipe. Arrange them evenly in a 9×13-inch baking pan, giving each meatball enough room to cook perfectly all the way through.
Step 4: Initial Bake
Bake the meatballs for 20 minutes. This initial baking step cooks them just enough so they hold their shape, giving you a delicious, tender center without drying out.
Step 5: Add Sauce and Combine
After the meatballs have started to cook, pour your marinara sauce directly over them. Gently stir to coat every meatball in that rich, savory sauce. This melds all those wonderful flavors together and keeps the meatballs moist.
Step 6: Lower Oven Temperature and Bake Again
Turn your oven down to 300°F, then pop the pan back in for another 20 minutes. This slower, gentler bake allows the meatballs to absorb the sauce and fully develop that comforting, home-cooked taste.
Step 7: Add Cheese and Final Bake
Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella around the meatballs, followed by the grated Parmesan cheese on top. Return the pan to the oven for 10 more minutes, letting the cheese melt into a bubbling, golden topping that’s pure magic.
Step 8: Serve Over Spaghetti
Serve your gorgeous casserole over a big plate of warm, cooked spaghetti. For an extra pop of freshness, sprinkle some freshly minced parsley on top. Every forkful brings together tender meat, luscious sauce, stretchy cheese, and perfectly cooked pasta – pure comfort on a plate.
How to Serve Meatball Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or basil is all it takes to add a burst of color and fresh herb flavor that contrasts wonderfully with the rich cheesy meatballs. Some crushed red pepper flakes add a subtle kick for those who like a little heat.
Side Dishes
Pair this casserole with a crisp green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette to balance the richness, or garlic bread that’s perfect for mopping up any extra sauce dripping off your plate. Roasted vegetables like broccoli or zucchini also make a healthy and tasty companion.
Creative Ways to Present
For a crowd, serve the meatballs and sauce in individual ramekins atop mini nests of spaghetti for personalized portions. You can also use baked polenta slices as a base instead of spaghetti for a gluten-free twist, or layer it in a casserole dish for a lasagna-style presentation that’s sure to impress guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors meld beautifully even after resting, making reheated servings just as delicious as fresh.
Freezing
This Meatball Casserole Recipe freezes exceptionally well. Pop the cooled casserole into a freezer-safe dish or bag, and freeze for up to 3 months. It’s a lifesaver for busy nights when you want comfort food without extra prep.
Reheating
To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen, then warm in the oven at 350°F until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions if you’re short on time, but the oven will give you that fresh-baked texture and melted cheese look.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken makes a lighter alternative and still works great in this Meatball Casserole Recipe. Just keep in mind they may cook a bit faster, so watch your oven times accordingly.
Can I make the meatballs without eggs?
If you need an egg substitute, you can use a flax egg or a bit of applesauce to bind the meatballs. It might change the texture slightly but your casserole will still be delicious.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Simply swap the breadcrumbs for gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers, and use gluten-free pasta for serving. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.
Can I prepare this Meatball Casserole Recipe in advance?
Definitely. You can assemble the casserole up to a day ahead, cover it, and refrigerate before baking. This makes it a favorite for meal prepping or entertaining guests.
What can I serve with this casserole for a complete meal?
A crisp salad, garlic bread, or roasted seasonal vegetables make perfect sides. The goal is to balance the rich meatballs and cheese with something fresh or crunchy on the side.
Final Thoughts
This Meatball Casserole Recipe is one of those dishes you’ll come back to time and again because it feels like a warm hug from your kitchen. It’s simple, satisfying, and bursting with flavors that appeal to everyone at the table. So go ahead, gather your ingredients, and create a meal that promises smiles, seconds, and stories shared around the dinner plate.
Print
Meatball Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
This hearty Meatball Casserole recipe combines juicy homemade beef meatballs baked to perfection and smothered in rich marinara sauce, then topped with melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Served over cooked spaghetti, it’s a comforting Italian-inspired dish perfect for a satisfying family meal.
Ingredients
Meatballs
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 large egg
- ¾ cup breadcrumbs
- 1 tablespoon dried minced onions
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
Sauce and Cheese Topping
- 24 ounces marinara sauce (1 jar)
- 8 ounces freshly shredded mozzarella cheese
- ¼ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
To Serve
- 1 pound cooked spaghetti (about 1 box)
- Freshly minced parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the meatballs.
- Combine Meatball Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix together the ground beef, egg, breadcrumbs, dried minced onions, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, black pepper, and kosher salt until well combined.
- Form Meatballs: Shape the mixture into 3-inch meatballs and arrange them in a 9×13-inch baking pan.
- Bake Meatballs: Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven at 350°F for 20 minutes to cook through.
- Add Marinara Sauce: Remove the baking pan from the oven and pour the marinara sauce evenly over the meatballs; gently stir to coat them in the sauce.
- Lower and Continue Baking: Reduce oven temperature to 300°F (150°C) and bake the meatballs with sauce for an additional 20 minutes to let flavors meld.
- Add Cheese and Finish Baking: Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese around the meatballs and grated Parmesan cheese on top, then bake for 10 more minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve: Serve the meatballs and sauce over cooked spaghetti. Garnish with freshly minced parsley if desired for a fresh finish.
Notes
- Use fresh or store-bought Italian seasoning for authentic flavor.
- Baking meatballs in sauce keeps them moist and enhances flavor.
- Allow the meatballs to rest a few minutes before serving for better texture.
- Cook spaghetti according to package instructions; do not overcook.
- Optional parsley garnish adds color and freshness.
