Meatball Casserole

Bysophie

Meatball Casserole is a warm, cozy dish that tastes like a hug in a bowl. It takes juicy meatballs and bakes them in a rich tomato sauce with melted cheese on top. The best part is that it’s like a big family meal all in one pan, so it’s super easy to serve and share. Some people like to add pasta, rice, or even vegetables to make it extra filling and tasty.

Meatball Casserole

This casserole is perfect for busy weeknights because it doesn’t take a lot of work, and it still feels like a special dinner. The meatballs get soft and tender while the sauce becomes thick and flavorful. When the cheese melts on top, it turns golden and bubbly, which makes it look as good as it tastes!

You Should Try Meatball Casserole

You should try Meatball Casserole because it’s a super simple way to make a delicious meal that everyone will love. It’s also a great way to use leftovers, like leftover meatballs or sauce. Plus, it’s a kid-friendly dish that tastes like a restaurant meal but is made right at home.

If you like spaghetti and meatballs, you’ll love this casserole because it has the same yummy flavors, but it’s easier to eat and share. You can also customize it by adding extra cheese, veggies, or different types of meat. It’s the perfect meal to make on a Sunday and enjoy all week long.

Table of Contents

Table of Contents

Ingredients you’ll need for Meatball Casserole

Here is everything you need to make Meatball Casserole:

For the Meatballs
  • 1 pound ground beef or half beef and half pork
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 egg
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper to taste
For the Casserole
  • 3 cups marinara sauce store bought or homemade
  • 2 cups cooked pasta penne, rigatoni, or spaghetti
  • 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Optional: chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach

How to Make Meatball Casserole

Step 1. Make the Meatballs

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix everything gently with your hands until it’s just combined. Don’t overmix or the meatballs can get tough.

Step 2. Shape and Cook the Meatballs

Roll the meat mixture into small balls about the size of a golf ball. Place them on a baking sheet or skillet. Bake them at 375°F (190°C) for 15–20 minutes until they’re cooked through and slightly browned.

Step 3. Prepare the Pasta

While the meatballs bake, cook the pasta in boiling water according to the package directions. Drain the pasta and set it aside.

Meatball Casserole

Step 4. Assemble the Casserole

In a 9×13 baking dish, spread a thin layer of marinara sauce. Add the cooked pasta, then place the meatballs on top. Pour the rest of the sauce over everything. Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top, and add any optional veggies if you want.

Step 5. Bake the Casserole

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 10 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 6. Cool and Serve

Let the casserole cool for 5–10 minutes before serving so the sauce can thicken. Then slice it like a big cheesy pie and enjoy!

You can add this post to your favorite Pinterest board!

Kitchen equipment you will need :

Before you start, make sure you have these kitchen tools ready:

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Baking sheet or skillet
  • Large pot for boiling pasta
  • 9×13 baking dish
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Aluminum foil optional

Tips and Variation Ideas

Use store-bought meatballs if you’re in a hurry. They work perfectly and save time.

Make it ahead of time and bake it later. You can assemble the casserole, cover it, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking.

Add extra veggies like spinach or bell peppers to make it healthier and colorful.

Use a slow cooker by layering pasta, meatballs, sauce, and cheese, then cooking on low for 2–3 hours.

What can I serve with this Meatball Casserole?

I often serve this Meatball Casserole with a delicious salad and some drinks, such as orange juice or any other beverage I have available. Sometimes I like to enjoy it on its own because it’s delicious in itself.

Meatball Casserole

Commonly Asked Questions

Can I freeze meatball casserole ?

Yes, freeze it in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef ?

Yes! Turkey makes a lighter version and tastes delicious.

How do I prevent the casserole from getting watery ?

Drain the pasta well and don’t add too much sauce. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

Can I use a slow cooker ?

Yes, layer ingredients in a slow cooker and cook on low for 2–3 hours.

Meatball Casserole
Print

Meatball Casserole

Recipe by sophieCourse: Main Course, DinnerCuisine: American, ItalianDifficulty: Easy
Servings

6

servings
Prep time

20

minutes
Cooking time

35

minutes
Calories

520

kcal
Total time

55

minutes

A cozy and cheesy baked dish featuring tender meatballs, pasta, and marinara sauce, topped with melted mozzarella for a delicious family dinner.

Ingredients

  • 1 pound ground beef or half beef and half pork

  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs

  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

  • 1 egg

  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder

  • 1 teaspoon onion powder

  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

  • Salt and pepper to taste

  • 3 cups marinara sauce store bought or homemade

  • 2 cups cooked pasta penne, rigatoni, or spaghetti

  • 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

  • Optional: chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach

Directions

  • In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix everything gently with your hands until it’s just combined. Don’t overmix or the meatballs can get tough.
  • Roll the meat mixture into small balls about the size of a golf ball. Place them on a baking sheet or skillet. Bake them at 375°F (190°C) for 15–20 minutes until they’re cooked through and slightly browned.
  • While the meatballs bake, cook the pasta in boiling water according to the package directions. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
  • In a 9x13 baking dish, spread a thin layer of marinara sauce. Add the cooked pasta, then place the meatballs on top. Pour the rest of the sauce over everything. Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top, and add any optional veggies if you want.
  • Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 10 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  • Let the casserole cool for 5–10 minutes before serving so the sauce can thicken. Then slice it like a big cheesy pie and enjoy!

Notes

  • Use pre-made meatballs if you’re short on time they work great and taste amazing.
  • Add a splash of milk to the meatball mix to keep them extra juicy.
  • Brown the meatballs first for a deeper flavor, even if you bake them later.
  • Drain pasta really well to prevent a watery casserole.

YOU MIGHT ALSO LIKE…

One Pan Chicken Meatballs with Orzo
Meatball Stroganoff
Italian Wedding Soup
Pizza Pull Apart Rolls

    Similar Posts

    • Pineapple Chicken

      Bysophie

      Pineapple Chicken is a sweet and savory dish that brings together juicy chicken, tender pineapple chunks, and a glossy, flavorful sauce that is slightly sweet, lightly tangy, and deeply comforting. The pineapple adds natural sweetness and a bright tropical note, while the chicken stays tender, hearty, and satisfying. This recipe is so popular because it…

    • Meatball Stroganoff

      Bysophie

      Meatball Stroganoff is a cozy, creamy dinner that brings together tender meatballs and a rich, smooth sauce made with mushrooms, onions, and sour cream. It is inspired by classic beef stroganoff, but instead of sliced beef, this version uses meatballs, which makes it easier, more fun, and very family friendly. The sauce is savory and slightly tangy, coating every bite so it tastes comforting without being too heavy. It is the kind of meal that feels warm and welcoming, perfect for busy weeknights or relaxed weekends.

    • |

      Soft Multigrain Bread

      Bysophie

      Soft Multigrain Bread is a delicious and wholesome type of bread made using a mix of different grains and seeds instead of just plain white flour. These grains can include whole wheat, oats, flaxseeds, sunflower seeds, and sometimes even millet or barley. The result is a loaf that is not only soft and fluffy but also packed with nutrients like fiber, vitamins, and healthy fats. Even though it is made with healthy ingredients, this bread still feels light and tender, making it perfect for sandwiches, toast, or simply enjoying with a bit of butter.

    • Creamy Cilantro Lime Chicken

      Bysophie

      Creamy Cilantro Lime Chicken is a warm, comforting dinner that mixes juicy chicken with a smooth, creamy sauce full of fresh flavor. The sauce is made with simple ingredients like cream, garlic, lime juice, and cilantro, which give it a bright, slightly tangy taste. When everything cooks together in one pan, the chicken soaks up the sauce and becomes very tender. This dish feels special, but it is actually easy enough to make on a busy weeknight.

    • Easy Creamy Shrimp and Broccoli Pasta

      Bysophie

      Easy Creamy Shrimp and Broccoli Pasta is a simple and delicious meal that combines tender shrimp, crunchy broccoli, and pasta all mixed in a creamy sauce. It tastes like a restaurant dish but is quick enough to make at home on a busy weeknight. The creamy sauce is made with ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen, like milk, butter, and cheese. This recipe is perfect for people who love seafood and want a meal that feels comforting and fancy at the same time.

    • Easy Chicken and Rice with Mushrooms

      Bysophie

      Easy Chicken and Rice with Mushrooms is a simple, comforting, and delicious one-pan meal that combines tender chicken, fluffy rice, and flavorful mushrooms cooked together in a savory broth. It’s a classic homemade dish that many families love because it’s warm, filling, and very easy to prepare. The mushrooms add a rich earthy flavor, while the chicken provides protein and heartiness. The rice soaks up all the tasty juices as it cooks, making every bite full of flavor.