19 Italian Meatball Casserole Recipe Savor The Mouthwatering Goodness!
Published on: Mar 14, 2024
The Italian meatball casserole is a classic comfort food dish that is perfect for any occasion. This hearty and flavorful recipe is a staple in Italian cuisine and is sure to please even the pickiest eaters. Whether you're hosting a dinner party or just looking to switch up your weeknight meal routine, this recipe is a must-try. With the perfect blend of tender meatballs, savory tomato sauce, and gooey melted cheese, this casserole is sure to become a family favorite. Here is a simple and delicious Italian meatball casserole recipe that will have your taste buds singing.
Get ready for a flavor explosion with this Cheesy Italian Meatball Casserole recipe. Tender meatballs smothered in a rich and creamy tomato sauce, topped with gooey melted cheese – this dish is sure to be a hit with the whole family.
Using freshly grated Parmesan cheese and homemade marinara sauce, this casserole is a delicious twist on traditional Italian flavors. And the best part? It's low in carbs and keto-friendly, so you can indulge guilt-free.
2of 20
Italian Meatball Casserole {Keto/Low Carb}
Main Ingredients: Ground Beef, Grated Parmesan Cheese, Mozzarella Cheese
If you're following a keto or low carb diet, this Italian Meatball Casserole is a must-try. It's packed with protein and healthy fats, making it a satisfying and nutritious meal.
The meatballs in this casserole are made with a combination of ground beef and pork, for a tender and flavorful bite. And with just a few simple ingredients, it's an easy and budget-friendly dish to add to your meal rotation.
This classic Italian Meatball Casserole recipe is a crowd-pleaser for a reason. The combination of juicy meatballs, savory marinara sauce, and melty mozzarella cheese is simply irresistible.
For a time-saving twist, you can use frozen meatballs in this casserole. Just make sure to thaw them before baking to ensure they cook evenly.
4of 20
Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole
Main Ingredients: Rotini Pasta, Marinara Sauce, Water, Meatballs
When you're short on time but still want a delicious and homemade meal, this Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole is the answer. Simply toss all the ingredients in a casserole dish and let the oven do the work.
With minimal prep time and only 5 ingredients, this casserole is perfect for busy weeknights. And the best part? It's kid-friendly and a great way to sneak some extra veggies into their diet.
Curl up with a bowl of comforting Italian Meatball Soup on a chilly day. This hearty soup is packed with flavorful meatballs, vegetables, and pasta, making it a complete meal in a bowl.
For a healthier option, you can use lean ground turkey instead of beef or pork in the meatballs. And with a short ingredient list, it's a simple and budget-friendly dish to make.
6of 20
5-ingredient Cheesy Meatball Casserole
Main Ingredients: Meatballs, Marinara Sauce, Baby Spinach, Ricotta
If you're looking for a quick and easy meal that's still packed with flavor, this 5-ingredient Cheesy Meatball Casserole is the perfect solution. With just a few simple ingredients, you can have a delicious and satisfying dinner on the table in no time.
This casserole is versatile as well – you can use your favorite type of meatball, whether it's beef, pork, or even turkey. And with only 5 ingredients, it's budget-friendly and perfect for meal prep.
7of 20
Meatball Casserole
Main Ingredients: Cream Cheese, Ricotta Cheese, Milk, Shredded Mozzarella
Looking for a comforting and hearty meal that's also easy to make? This Meatball Casserole is the answer. The combination of savory meatballs, creamy tomato sauce, and melted cheese is a winning flavor combination.
For a healthier twist, you can use whole wheat pasta, and add in some chopped vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach. And with minimal prep time, it's a great option for busy weeknights.
8of 20
One Pan Meatball Casserole
Main Ingredients: Pasta, Marinara Sauce, Milk, Water, Garlic Powder
For a quick and easy dinner that requires minimal clean-up, try this One Pan Meatball Casserole. You can throw all the ingredients in a casserole dish and bake it in the oven, saving you time and effort.
The combination of meatballs, pasta, and marinara sauce makes this dish a complete meal that the whole family will love. And with only one pan to clean, it's a great option for busy weeknights.
9of 20
Enchilada Meatball Casserole
Main Ingredients: Cooked White Rice, Black Beans, Yellow Onion, Mexican
For a Mexican-inspired twist on the classic meatball casserole, try this Enchilada Meatball Casserole. It's packed with flavorful meatballs, spicy enchilada sauce, and gooey cheese, making it a delicious and unique dish to add to your meal rotation.
This casserole is also perfect for using up any leftover meatballs or enchilada sauce you may have on hand. And with a short ingredient list, it's a budget-friendly option as well.
For a hearty and flavorful soup that's perfect for a cozy night in, try this Italian Wedding Meatball Soup. Made with homemade meatballs, veggies, and pasta, it's a complete meal in a bowl.
The key to this soup is using fresh herbs like basil and parsley for a burst of flavor. And with a short cooking time, it's a quick and easy option for a weeknight meal.
11of 20
Baked Italian Meatballs
Main Ingredients: Meatballs, Marinara Sauce, Shredded Mozzarella Cheese
If you're looking for a versatile and easy dish that can be used in various recipes, try these Baked Italian Meatballs. You can use them in pasta dishes, sandwiches, or even on their own as a protein-packed snack.
The key to perfectly cooked and flavorful meatballs is to use a combination of ground beef and pork. And with only a few ingredients, they're easy to make and budget-friendly.
12of 20
Italian Meatball Calzones
Main Ingredients: Hot Italian Sausage, Ground Sirloin, Seasoned Bread
For a fun and delicious twist on traditional meatballs, try these Italian Meatball Calzones. The combination of savory meatballs, gooey cheese, and flaky dough makes for a mouth-watering meal.
You can use homemade or store-bought pizza dough for this recipe, whichever is more convenient for you. And with a variety of fillings, you can customize these calzones to your liking.
13of 20
Italian Meatball Tortellini
Main Ingredients: Meatballs, Chicken Broth, Spaghetti Sauce, Cheese
For a comforting and satisfying meal that's perfect for a chilly day, try this Italian Meatball Tortellini. The combination of rich tomato sauce, tender meatballs, and cheesy tortellini is a flavor explosion.
This dish is also great for using up any leftover meatballs you may have on hand. And with only a few ingredients, it's an easy and budget-friendly option for a weeknight meal.
14of 20
Biscuit Meatball Casserole
Main Ingredients: Meatballs, Spaghetti Sauce, Cheese, Biscuits, Buttermilk
For a comforting and hearty casserole that's perfect for feeding a crowd, try this Biscuit Meatball Casserole. Made with canned biscuits, meatballs, and creamy tomato sauce, it's an easy and delicious dish that everyone will love.
This casserole is also perfect for meal prep – you can make it ahead of time and freeze it for a quick and convenient meal later on. And with minimal ingredients, it's budget-friendly as well.
15of 20
Italian Chicken Meatball Subs
Main Ingredients: Olive Oil, Chopped Onion, Minced Garlic, Peeled Crushed
If you're craving a satisfying and flavorful sandwich, try these Italian Chicken Meatball Subs. Made with ground chicken instead of beef or pork, they're a healthier option that's still packed with delicious Italian flavors.
For a time-saving option, you can use frozen meatballs in this recipe. And with a variety of toppings to choose from, you can customize these subs to your liking.
For a quick and easy meal that's perfect for using up any frozen meatballs you may have on hand, try this Frozen Italian Meatball Soup. With simple ingredients and minimal prep time, it's a great option for busy weeknights.
This soup is also versatile – you can add in any veggies you have on hand for a nutritious boost. And with a short cooking time, it's a convenient and delicious meal option.
17of 20
Ditalini Italian Soup for #SundaySupper
Main Ingredients: Extra Virgin Olive Oil, Onions, Garlic, Diced Tomatoes
For a hearty and satisfying soup that's perfect for a cozy Sunday dinner, try this Ditalini Italian Soup. Made with ditalini pasta, meatballs, and a variety of veggies, it's a complete meal that's sure to please.
This soup is also great for meal prep – you can make a big batch and freeze it for future meals. And with only a few ingredients, it's a budget-friendly option as well.
18of 20
Cheesy Meatball Casserole
Main Ingredients: Italian Meatballs, Tomato Sauce, Baby Spinach, Ricotta
For a kid-friendly and crowd-pleasing meal, try this Cheesy Meatball Casserole. Made with frozen meatballs, pasta, and plenty of cheese, it's a comforting and delicious dish that's perfect for a family dinner.
This casserole is also versatile – you can use any type of pasta you have on hand, and add in extra veggies for a nutritious boost. And with only a few ingredients, it's an easy and budget-friendly option for a weeknight meal.
19of 20
4 Ingredient Meatball Casserole
Main Ingredients: Dry Pasta, Marinara Sauce, Mozzarella Cheese, Meatballs
For a super easy and quick meal option, try this 4 Ingredient Meatball Casserole. With only four ingredients, it's a simple and budget-friendly dish that's perfect for busy weeknights.
For an extra kick of flavor, you can use spicy marinara sauce or add in some red pepper flakes. And with minimal prep time, it's a great option for those nights when you need to get dinner on the table fast.
If you're craving a classic Italian sub, try this Italian Meatball Sub recipe. Made with homemade meatballs, marinara sauce, and melted cheese, it's a delicious and satisfying sandwich that's perfect for lunch or dinner.
This sub is also versatile – you can use frozen meatballs for a time-saving option, or add in extra veggies for a nutritious boost. And with a short ingredient list, it's an easy and budget-friendly dish to make.
The Perfect Blend of Meat and Flavors
Homemade Meatballs
One of the key ingredients in this Italian meatball casserole is, of course, the meatballs. While store-bought meatballs can be used, there's nothing quite like homemade meatballs. They are easy to make and give the casserole a more authentic taste. Simply mix together ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, parmesan cheese, and Italian seasoning, and roll into bite-sized balls. These meatballs are then browned in a skillet before being added to the casserole dish.
Savory Tomato Sauce
Another essential component of this casserole is the tomato sauce. While you can use a jarred sauce, making your own from scratch is always a good idea. This allows you to control the ingredients and tailor the flavor to your liking. Sauté onions and garlic in a pot, then add crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, and a blend of Italian herbs. Let it simmer for a few minutes to allow the flavors to develop before pouring it over the meatballs in the casserole dish.
A Cheesy and Delicious Topping
Melted Mozzarella Cheese
No Italian meatball casserole would be complete without a generous layer of melted mozzarella cheese on top. This adds a gooey and delicious element to the dish and helps to hold all the ingredients together. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella on top of the casserole before baking to achieve a perfectly melted and golden brown finish.
Making the Casserole
Once all the components are prepared, it's time to assemble the casserole. Layer the meatballs and tomato sauce in a casserole dish, then top with the shredded mozzarella cheese. Bake in the oven for 25-30 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and the casserole is heated through. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
A Crowd-Pleasing Dish
This Italian meatball casserole is a versatile and crowd-pleasing dish that can be served for any occasion. It can be served as a main course alongside a salad and some crusty bread, or as a hearty appetizer for a party. Leftovers can also be reheated and enjoyed for lunch or dinner the next day. No matter how you choose to serve it, this casserole is sure to be a hit with everyone.
In conclusion, this Italian meatball casserole recipe is a must-try for any lover of comfort food and Italian cuisine. With its homemade meatballs, savory tomato sauce, and melted mozzarella cheese, it is a delicious and satisfying dish that will have your taste buds begging for more. So go ahead and give this recipe a try, and impress your family and friends with your culinary skills. Buon appetito!
