Craving a dish that brings everyone to the table? This easy meatball casserole is a crowd-pleaser, combining hearty meatballs, rich marinara sauce, and gooey cheese into one delightful casserole. It’s perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings with friends.
Imagine sinking your fork into layers of tender, flavorful meatballs enveloped in a savory sauce, all topped with melted cheese that stretches with each bite. This recipe is not only easy to prepare but also guarantees satisfaction for all ages.
An Effortless Meatball Casserole for Any Occasion
This easy meatball casserole features juicy meatballs baked in a rich marinara sauce, layered with cheesy goodness. It’s comforting and filling, making it a perfect weeknight meal that can be on the table in no time.
Ingredients
- 1 pound frozen meatballs (beef or turkey)
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 2 cups cooked pasta (penne or rotini work well)
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, frozen meatballs, marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Layer the Casserole: In a greased baking dish, spread half of the meatball mixture on the bottom. Top with half of the mozzarella cheese, then repeat the layers with the remaining mixture and cheese.
- Bake: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Serve: Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 6 servings
- Calories: 450kcal
- Fat: 20g
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 40g