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Meatball Casserole Recipe

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This Meatball Casserole recipe features juicy beef and pork meatballs, baked in marinara sauce, topped with mozzarella and Parmesan. Perfect for a hearty dinner, it can be customized with ricotta or served over pasta for extra flavor.

Ingredients

Scale
  • For the Meatballs:
    1 lb ground beef (80% lean)
    1 lb ground pork (or turkey)
    1/2 cup breadcrumbs (Italian seasoned)
    1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
    1 egg (beaten)
    2 garlic cloves (minced)
    1 tbsp dried oregano
    1 tbsp dried basil
    Salt and pepper (to taste)
    1/4 cup milk (whole or 2%)
    2 tbsp olive oil (for frying)
  • For the Casserole Base:
    3 cups marinara sauce
    2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
    1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
    1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
    Fresh basil (for garnish)
  • Optional Ingredients:
    1 cup ricotta cheese
    1/2 cup sautéed onions
    Cooked pasta (optional)

Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
  • In a large bowl, mix ground beef, pork, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, egg, garlic, oregano, basil, salt, pepper, and milk.
  • Shape the mixture into meatballs.
  • Heat olive oil in a skillet and fry the meatballs until browned on all sides. Set aside.
  • In a casserole dish, spread a thin layer of marinara sauce.
  • Place the meatballs over the sauce, then top with more marinara sauce, mozzarella, and Parmesan.
  • Sprinkle red pepper flakes if using.
  • Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cheese is bubbly and golden.
  • Garnish with fresh basil before serving. Optional: serve over cooked pasta.

Notes

  • For added creaminess, mix ricotta cheese into the casserole before baking.
  • Adjust the spice level with red pepper flakes based on your preference.
  • Fry the meatballs until they're nicely browned but not fully cooked through since they'll finish in the oven.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://sandyrecipes.com/meatball-casserole-recipe/