Cheesy Meatball Casserole

Cheesy Meatball Casserole

Introduction:

There’s nothing quite like the comfort of a warm, cheesy casserole straight out of the oven. This cheesy meatball casserole combines tender, flavorful meatballs with a rich, creamy sauce and a golden, melted cheese topping. It’s an ideal dish for family dinners, potlucks, or even as a meal prep option. Easy to prepare and incredibly satisfying, it’s bound to become a favorite on your table.

Ingredients:

For the Meatballs:

• 500g (1 lb) ground beef
• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 egg
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tbsp chopped parsley
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp salt

For the Sauce:

• 2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 tsp dried oregano
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Topping:

• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tbsp chopped chives or parsley (optional garnish)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Meatballs:
   • In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, minced garlic, parsley, paprika, black pepper, and salt.
   • Mix thoroughly until the ingredients are well incorporated.
   • Roll the mixture into small, evenly sized meatballs (about 1 inch in diameter).
2. Cook the Meatballs:
   • Preheat a skillet over medium heat with a drizzle of oil.
   • Sear the meatballs on all sides until browned but not fully cooked (about 5 minutes). Remove them from the skillet and set aside.
3. Prepare the Sauce:
   • In the same skillet, add marinara sauce, heavy cream, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
   • Simmer the sauce for 5 minutes until slightly thickened.
4. Assemble the Casserole:
   • Preheat your oven to 190°C (375°F).
   • In a casserole dish, pour half of the sauce mixture as the base layer.
   • Arrange the meatballs evenly over the sauce.
   • Pour the remaining sauce over the meatballs.
5. Add the Cheese Topping:
   • Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese evenly over the casserole.
   • Place the dish in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbling.
6. Garnish and Serve:
   • Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes.
   • Sprinkle chopped chives or parsley on top for garnish and serve warm.

Conclusion:

This cheesy meatball casserole is the epitome of comfort food—easy to prepare and packed with flavor. The combination of tender meatballs, rich sauce, and gooey melted cheese is irresistible. Serve it alongside a fresh green salad or crusty bread for a complete meal. It’s a dish that’s sure to please everyone at the table, and the leftovers (if any!) are just as delicious. Enjoy the hearty warmth of this satisfying casserole!