Meatballs Parmesan Casserole Recipe

If you’re craving effortless comfort food that’s guaranteed to gather applause at the dinner table, look no further than this oven-baked Meatballs Parmesan Casserole. Packed with juicy homemade meatballs, bubbling marinara, and layers of gooey melted cheese, it’s exactly the kind of soul-warming dish that makes any night feel special—even when you’re short on time (or energy!).

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s talk ingredients! This Meatballs Parmesan Casserole is proof that you don’t need a pantry full of fancy items to make something extraordinary—just a few thoughtfully chosen staples come together for a casserole everyone will remember.

• White bread: The secret to light-as-air meatballs! Soaked and mashed, it’s what gives the meatballs their pillowy texture.
• Milk or water: Softens the bread to meld seamlessly into the meat mixture and ensures unbelievable tenderness.
• Ground beef and ground pork: This classic blend delivers juicy, richly flavored meatballs. Using beef alone just isn’t quite the same!
• Parmesan cheese: Divided between the meatballs and the topping, parmesan adds salty, savory depth and that signature golden crust.
• Large egg: Acts as the binder, making sure every meatball holds together beautifully.
• Fresh garlic and parsley: The duo that brings lively, aromatic Italian flavor to both the meatballs and the final garnish.
• Fine sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper: For balanced seasoning—don’t skimp here!
• Oil for frying: A light olive oil creates a gorgeous sear, locking in flavor and moisture.
• Marinara sauce: Choose your favorite homemade recipe or a great-quality jarred sauce for luscious, tangy richness.
• Shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts into gooey perfection, creating that swoon-worthy cheese pull with every serving.

Variations

This is your casserole—make it work for you! Whether you’re catering to dietary needs, using up what you have, or infusing a little creativity, there are tons of fun ways to tweak this classic Meatballs Parmesan Casserole.

• Chicken or Turkey Meatballs: Swap the beef and pork for ground poultry if you prefer a lighter option—it’s equally delicious with the same Italian seasonings.
• Vegetarian Twist: Use store-bought plant-based or homemade vegetarian meatballs, adding extra cheese for richness.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to the marinara or the meat mix for some subtle heat lovers will adore.
• Cheese Switch-Up: Try adding provolone, fontina, or even smoked mozzarella to mix up the flavor profile—it’s hard to go wrong with more cheese!

How to Make Meatballs Parmesan Casserole

Step 1: Soak the Bread

Start by removing the crusts from your white bread, dicing it up, and giving it a milk (or water) bath in a large mixing bowl. Let it soak for about five minutes, then mash into a smooth paste with a fork—the softer the bread, the fluffier your meatballs will be!

Step 2: Make and Shape the Meatball Mixture

To the bread mixture, add your ground beef, ground pork, half of the parmesan, egg, minced garlic, parsley, salt, and pepper. Use your hands to gently and quickly combine (think: working biscuit dough—not kneading bread). If the mix doesn’t feel super moist, splash in another tablespoon or so of milk. Don’t overwork—just mix until everything comes together.

Step 3: Shape and Sear the Meatballs

Using a cookie scoop or spoon, portion out golf ball-sized pieces (about 2 tablespoons each), wetting your hands to roll smooth, round meatballs. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium and brown the meatballs on all sides in batches—about 8 minutes total per batch. No need to cook through—they’ll finish in the oven later.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

Spread a cup of marinara sauce across the bottom of a 9×13 casserole dish and nestle your browned meatballs into the sauce in a single layer. Top with the rest of the marinara, then shower with the remaining parmesan and all that glorious mozzarella.

Step 5: Bake Until Bubbly and Golden

Cover your dish with foil and bake at 400°F until the meatballs reach 165°F inside, the cheese is melted, and the whole casserole is gloriously bubbling—about 30 minutes. For a little extra color, pop the dish under the broiler for a minute or two, keeping a close eye. Let it rest a bit before digging in so you get the perfect cheesy, saucy scoop!

How to Serve Meatballs Parmesan Casserole

Garnishes

Take your Meatballs Parmesan Casserole over the top by finishing with a generous sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley, extra parmesan, and a pinch of cracked black pepper. A few ribbons of fresh basil add a pop of color and fragrance if you’re feeling extra fancy!

Side Dishes

This casserole is meant for twirling onto your fork with a pile of buttery spaghetti or garlic bread for dunking. A simple green salad or steamed broccoli balances the richness without stealing the spotlight.

Creative Ways to Present

For a party, scoop individual servings of Meatballs Parmesan Casserole into mini ramekins or bowls—perfect for a buffet! Or, make saucy subs: toast hoagie rolls, pile in meatballs, and shower with extra cheese for the ultimate comfort sandwich.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cool, cover leftovers tightly and refrigerate for up to four days. The flavors get even better as everything mingles—a busy weeknight lifesaver!

Freezing

To freeze, assemble your Meatballs Parmesan Casserole up to the point of baking, cover well with plastic wrap and foil, and store for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge, remove the plastic wrap, and bake as usual for an effortless dinner win.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers (covered with foil to avoid over-browning) at 350°F for about 20 minutes, or until piping hot. Quick microwave reheating works perfectly for rushed lunches—just use a cover to keep everything neat.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

It’s impossible not to smile when you pull this Meatballs Parmesan Casserole out of the oven—cozy, cheesy, and absolutely brimming with flavor. I hope you’ll give it a try and make it your own; this is one recipe destined to become a cherished favorite for weeknights, gatherings, or just whenever you need a little extra comfort on your plate. Enjoy every bite!

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