A Meatball Casserole is the ultimate cozy, family-friendly dish — cheesy, saucy, and packed with tender meatballs. You can use homemade or store-bought meatballs, and it’s great for prepping ahead or feeding a crowd.
🧆 Cheesy Meatball Casserole
Baked with marinara, melted cheese, and all the comfort food vibes
Serves 4–6
🧾 Ingredients
For the Meatballs (or use frozen and cooked ones):
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1 lb ground beef (or mix beef & pork)
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1/4 cup breadcrumbs (or almond flour for low-carb)
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1/4 cup grated Parmesan
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1 egg
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1 tsp Italian seasoning
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Salt & pepper to taste
Casserole Base:
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2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
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1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
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1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
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1 tsp dried oregano or basil
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Optional: red pepper flakes for heat
🔥 Instructions
1. Make the Meatballs
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Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
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In a bowl, mix all meatball ingredients until just combined.
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Form into 1.5-inch balls and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
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Bake for 15–18 minutes, or until browned and mostly cooked through.
2. Assemble the Casserole
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Lower oven temp to 375°F (190°C).
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In a greased 9×13 baking dish, spread a thin layer of marinara.
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Add meatballs in a single layer.
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Pour remaining marinara over the meatballs.
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Sprinkle evenly with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
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Add a pinch of oregano or basil on top.
3. Bake
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Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
4. Serve
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Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
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Garnish with fresh basil or parsley.
🍽️ Serving Ideas
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Over pasta, zoodles, or spaghetti squash
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On toasted hoagie rolls (for epic meatball subs)
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With garlic bread and a green salad
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With roasted vegetables or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option
🧠 Tips:
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Make it ahead: Assemble the casserole and refrigerate, then bake when ready.
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Use turkey or chicken for lighter meatballs.
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Add sautéed onions, spinach, or mushrooms for extra veggies.