When you need a warm, hearty, and satisfying meal that the whole family will love, this meatball casserole is the perfect choice. Juicy meatballs are baked in rich marinara sauce, topped with gooey melted cheese, and served as a comforting one-dish dinner.
It combines all the best parts of spaghetti and meatballs with the convenience of a casserole. Whether you’re feeding a crowd, meal prepping for the week, or just craving cozy comfort food, this recipe delivers big flavor with minimal effort.
Why You’ll Love This Meatball Casserole
-
Easy one-dish meal
-
Family-friendly and kid-approved
-
Loaded with cheese and flavor
-
Perfect for meal prep
-
Great for potlucks and gatherings
-
Customizable with pasta or veggies
It’s simple, filling, and incredibly delicious.
Ingredients
For the Meatballs
-
1 pound ground beef (or beef and turkey mix)
-
½ cup breadcrumbs
-
1 egg
-
2 cloves garlic, minced
-
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
-
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
-
½ teaspoon salt
-
¼ teaspoon black pepper
For the Casserole
-
3 cups marinara sauce
-
1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
-
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
-
2 cups cooked pasta (optional)
-
Fresh parsley or basil for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Meatballs
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
In a large bowl, mix ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic, Parmesan, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Form into evenly sized meatballs.
Place meatballs on a baking sheet and bake for 12–15 minutes until lightly browned.
Step 2: Assemble the Casserole
Lower oven temperature to 375°F (190°C).
Spread a layer of marinara sauce in the bottom of a baking dish. Add cooked pasta if using, then place the baked meatballs on top.
Pour remaining marinara sauce over the meatballs and sprinkle with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
Step 3: Bake Until Cheesy and Bubbly
Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden.
Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Tips for the Best Meatball Casserole
-
Don’t overmix the meatball mixture
-
Bake meatballs first to keep them juicy
-
Use high-quality marinara for best flavor
-
Let the casserole rest before serving
-
Add extra cheese for a richer dish
Easy Variations
Low-Carb Version
Skip pasta and serve with zucchini noodles.
Spicy Meatball Casserole
Add chili flakes or spicy marinara.
Chicken Meatballs
Use ground chicken for a lighter option.
Vegetable Boost
Add spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers.
What to Serve with Meatball Casserole
This hearty dish pairs well with:
-
Garlic bread
-
Caesar salad
-
Roasted vegetables
-
Steamed green beans
Make-Ahead & Storage Tips
-
Assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance
-
Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days
-
Freeze for up to 2 months
-
Reheat in the oven for best texture
Perfect for busy weeknights and meal prep.
Nutrition Benefits
This meatball casserole provides:
-
High protein from meatballs
-
Calcium from cheese
-
Energy from pasta (if included)
-
A filling and satisfying meal
For a lighter version, use lean meat and reduced-fat cheese.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen meatballs?
Yes, just thaw and reduce baking time slightly.
Can I make this without pasta?
Absolutely. It works great as a low-carb dish.
What cheese works best?
Mozzarella for melt and Parmesan for flavor.
Final Thoughts
Meatball casserole is the ultimate cheesy comfort food that’s easy to make and perfect for feeding a crowd. With juicy meatballs, rich marinara, and gooey melted cheese, it’s a guaranteed family favorite.