Cheesy Baked Meatball Casserole

Cheesy Baked Meatball Casserole

Ingredients:

For the meatballs:

• 1 lb (450g) ground beef (or half beef + half pork)
• ½ cup breadcrumbs
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 egg
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley (or 1 tsp dried)
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper

For the casserole:

• 3 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup shredded cheddar (optional, for extra flavor)
• Extra Parmesan for topping
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions:

1. Make the meatballs
   
   • In a bowl, mix ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, egg, garlic, parsley, and seasonings.
   • Roll into small meatballs (about 1–1.5 inches).
3. Cook the meatballs
   
   • You can pan-fry them in a little olive oil until browned, OR bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15–18 minutes.
5. Assemble the casserole
   
   • In a baking dish, spread half of the marinara sauce.
   • Place meatballs evenly on top.
   • Pour remaining marinara over meatballs.
   • Sprinkle generously with mozzarella, cheddar, and Parmesan.
7. Bake
   
   • Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20–25 minutes, until cheese is melted and bubbly.
9. Serve
   
   • Garnish with fresh parsley.
   • Serve with garlic bread, pasta, or over rice.