Nothing is as rich, delicious, and hearty! My husband and I can finish the entire thing in one sitting!

This recipe combines juicy meatballs, flavorful marinara sauce, and melty cheese for a satisfying and comforting casserole. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering.

Meatball Parmesan Casserole: A Cheesy and Hearty Dish

Ingredients:

For the Meatballs:

For the Casserole:

Instructions:

1. Preheat and Prep (10 minutes):

   • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
   • Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with olive oil.

2. Make the Meatballs (10 minutes):

   • In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, ½ cup Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well until everything is evenly incorporated.
   • Roll the mixture into 1-inch meatballs and place them on a baking sheet.

3. Cook the Meatballs (15-20 minutes):

   • Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until they are browned and cooked through.

4. Assemble the Casserole (5 minutes):

   • Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
   • Place the cooked meatballs on top of the sauce.
   • Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the meatballs, ensuring they are well coated.
   • Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese and additional grated Parmesan cheese over the sauce-covered meatballs.

5. Bake the Casserole (20-25 minutes):

   • Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the casserole is heated through.
   • For an extra-crispy cheese topping, broil the casserole for an additional 2-3 minutes, watching closely to prevent burning.

6. Serve (5 minutes):

   • Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool slightly.
   • Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired.
   • Serve the Meatball Parmesan Casserole with pasta, crusty bread, or a side salad for a complete meal.