Name: Meatball Casserole Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef; 1/2 pound ground pork; 1/3 cup breadcrumbs; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 egg; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning; 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional); 2 cups marinara sauce; 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup shredded provolone cheese; 1 tablespoon olive oil (for greasing baking dish)

This Meatball Casserole is pure comfort food. Think tender meatballs nestled in a bed of seasoned marinara, layered with gooey mozzarella and baked to golden perfection. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or prepping for a cozy dinner with friends, this dish never disappoints.

What makes this casserole extra special is its versatility. You can serve it over pasta, tuck it into a hoagie roll, or simply enjoy it by the spoonful. And it also freezes beautifully—ideal for busy weeknights when you want something hearty and homemade.

What Kind of Meatballs Should I Use?

You can use homemade meatballs for ultimate flavor, or grab frozen pre-cooked ones for a quicker version. If you go homemade, make them a bit smaller so they bake evenly with the rest of the casserole.

Ingredients for the Meatball Casserole Recipe

1 pound ground beef
1/2 pound ground pork
1/3 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 egg
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional)
2 cups marinara sauce
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup shredded provolone cheese
1 tablespoon olive oil (for greasing baking dish)

How To Make the Meatball Casserole Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Meatballs

In a large bowl, combine ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, egg, garlic, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Mix until just combined, then shape into 1 to 1.5-inch meatballs.

Step 2: Brown the Meatballs

Heat a skillet over medium heat and lightly brown the meatballs on all sides. This step adds flavor and helps them hold together in the casserole.

Step 3: Layer the Casserole

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil. Pour 1 cup of marinara sauce in the bottom, then arrange the browned meatballs over the sauce. Top with the remaining sauce, mozzarella, and provolone.

Step 4: Bake and Serve

Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 10-15 minutes until cheese is bubbly and slightly golden. Garnish with parsley if desired and serve warm.

How to Serve and Store This Hearty Dish

Serve this casserole hot out of the oven with a side of garlic bread or a fresh salad. It pairs well with spaghetti or even over mashed potatoes for a twist.

To store leftovers, transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven at 350°F or microwave until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I make this casserole ahead of time?

You can assemble the casserole a day ahead and refrigerate it. Just add an extra 10 minutes to the baking time if cooking from cold.

Can I use turkey instead of beef and pork?

Absolutely. Ground turkey is a leaner option and works beautifully in this dish.

Is it gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free breadcrumbs and ensure your marinara sauce is certified gluten-free.

What cheese alternatives work well here?

Try using cheddar, fontina, or even a spicy pepper jack for a unique twist.

Can I double this recipe?

Yes! Use a larger baking dish or divide between two dishes. Perfect for feeding a crowd or meal prepping.

Want More Casserole Ideas?

If this Meatball Casserole hit the spot, you might love these satisfying options too:

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can make it again any time: Nina Dishes on Pinterest

I’d love to hear what twists you put on this one. Did you sneak in spinach? Add spice? Drop a comment below to share your take or ask questions. We cook better together!

Meatball Casserole Recipe

Author: Nina Klatten
Total Time: 55 minutes
Yield: 6 servings

Print Recipe

Description

This hearty Meatball Casserole combines juicy homemade meatballs with marinara, gooey mozzarella, and provolone cheese, baked to bubbly perfection. It’s comforting, family-friendly, and easy to make ahead or freeze for later.

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, egg, garlic, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Mix until just combined, then shape into 1 to 1.5-inch meatballs.

2. Heat a skillet over medium heat and lightly brown the meatballs on all sides.

3. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil. Pour 1 cup of marinara sauce in the bottom. Arrange meatballs, top with remaining sauce, mozzarella, and provolone.

4. Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 10-15 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden. Garnish with parsley if desired and serve warm.