Meatball Pasta Casserole
If you are looking for a comforting, crowd-pleasing dish that combines the delicate flavors of egg noodles, juicy meatballs, and a rich, creamy sauce, then this Meatball Pasta Casserole is exactly what you need. It’s the perfect recipe to bring warmth and joy to your dining table, suitable for weeknight dinners or family gatherings. Follow this comprehensive guide to create a masterpiece that will have everyone asking for seconds!
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Ingredients for the Perfect Meatball Pasta Casserole
Meatball Ingredients
Ingredient | Amount |
---|---|
Ground beef | 1 pound |
Breadcrumbs | ½ cup |
Parmesan cheese, grated | ¼ cup |
Minced garlic | 2 cloves |
Egg white | 1 |
Basil leaves, dried | 1 teaspoon |
Salt (optional) | To taste |
Pasta and Sauce Ingredients
Ingredient | Amount |
Egg noodles | 1 pound |
Beef stock | 2 cups |
Heavy cream or milk | 1 cup (or ½ cup milk for a lighter option) |
Freshly ground pepper | Optional |
Salt | Optional |
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preheat Your Oven
Start by setting your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s at the perfect temperature when your casserole is ready to bake.
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How to Prepare the Meatballs
- Mix the Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, egg white, dried basil, and salt. Mix thoroughly with clean hands or a wooden spoon until all ingredients are well combined.
- Shape the Meatballs: Roll the mixture into small, evenly-sized balls, roughly one inch in diameter. Consistent sizing ensures even cooking.
- Cook the Meatballs: Heat a skillet over medium heat and lightly grease it with oil. Cook the meatballs in batches, turning occasionally, until they are browned on all sides and cooked through. This process takes about 7-10 minutes per batch. Set the cooked meatballs aside.
Cook the Egg Noodles
- Boil the Noodles: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the egg noodles and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. This usually takes around 6-8 minutes.
- Drain and Set Aside: Drain the noodles and toss them with a drizzle of oil to prevent sticking.
Prepare the Creamy Sauce
- Combine Stock and Cream: In a saucepan, combine the beef stock and heavy cream (or milk for a lighter option). Heat over medium-low, stirring occasionally.
- Season to Taste: Add freshly ground pepper and salt if desired. Simmer gently until the sauce thickens slightly, about 5-7 minutes.
Assemble the Casserole
- Layer the Ingredients: In a greased casserole dish, spread a layer of cooked egg noodles. Arrange the meatballs evenly over the noodles. Pour the creamy sauce over the top, ensuring everything is well-coated.
- Optional Toppings: For an extra layer of flavor, sprinkle grated Parmesan or shredded mozzarella cheese on top.
Bake the Casserole
- Cover and Bake: Cover the casserole dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.
- Uncover for a Crispy Top: Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes or until the top is golden and bubbly.
Serve and Enjoy
Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil for an added touch of freshness. Serve hot and watch your guests savor every bite.
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Why This Recipe Works
- Flavorful Meatballs: The combination of garlic, Parmesan, and basil creates perfectly seasoned, tender meatballs.
- Rich, Creamy Sauce: Using beef stock and cream gives the casserole a luxurious texture and depth of flavor.
- Comforting Combination: The soft, buttery egg noodles pair wonderfully with the hearty meatballs and luscious sauce, making this dish irresistible.