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Cheesy Meatballs Casserole

Cheesy Meatballs Casserole

5 from 27 votes
Get set for a mouthwatering treat with our Cheesy Meatballs Casserole! Whip up some flavorful meatballs with garlic, parsley, and cheese, then cover them in marinara sauce and melty mozzarella. Bake until golden and bubbly for a dish that's ideal for family gatherings or chill evenings at home. Dive into cheesy deliciousness with each mouthful!
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 20 meatballs
Course: Entree, Main Course
Cuisine: Italian, Italian-American
Calories: 238
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 lb hot Italian sausage
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • ½ cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • ½ cup parmesan cheese
  • 1 tsp salt
  • ½ tsp pepper
  • 1 cup Italian bread crumbs
  • 2 eggs
  • 1 cup milk
  • 24 oz marinara sauce
  • 2 cups mozzarella cheese

Method
 

  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, Italian sausage, minced garlic, chopped parsley, parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, bread crumbs, eggs, and milk. Mix until well combined.
  2. Roll the mixture into 4-5 ounce meatballs using a medium-sized ice cream scooper for even portions.
  3. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
  4. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Brown the meatballs on both sides for about 2-3 minutes until a crispy sear forms. Cook them halfway through, as they will finish cooking in the oven.
  5. In a casserole dish, spread a few tablespoons of marinara sauce on the bottom to prevent sticking. Place the meatballs in the dish and pour the remaining marinara sauce over them. Top with shredded mozzarella cheese.
  6. Cover the casserole dish with foil and bake at 425°F (220°C) for 25 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and the meatballs are cooked through.
  7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.

Notes

Pro Tip: For an extra flavor boost, try adding some diced onions and bell peppers to the meatball mixture. Sauté them with the garlic before mixing them into the meat mixture. This will add a deliciously aromatic touch to your Cheesy Meatballs Casserole.
Variation: Want to switch things up? Instead of marinara sauce, try using barbecue sauce for a smoky and tangy twist on this classic dish. Simply swap out the marinara sauce for your favorite barbecue sauce, and top the meatballs with cheddar cheese instead of mozzarella before baking. Serve with a side of coleslaw for a barbecue-inspired meal that's sure to impress!