Description
This hearty and comforting Meatballs Parmesan Casserole brings together savory meatballs, marinara sauce, and a generous amount of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Perfect for family dinners, this dish combines classic flavors in a delicious baked casserole.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Meatballs:
- 3 slices white bread, crusts removed, diced
- 1/2 cup cold milk (or water), plus more if needed
- 1 pound lean ground beef (80/20 or 85/15)
- 1 pound ground pork
- 1/2 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese, divided
- 1 large egg
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons parsley, finely chopped, plus more for garnish
- 1 teaspoon fine sea salt
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
- Oil for frying (extra light olive oil recommended)
For the Casserole:
- 3 cups marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions
- Prepare the meatballs: In a large bowl, soak the diced bread in cold milk (or water) for about 5 minutes until softened. Squeeze out any excess liquid.
- Add the ground beef, ground pork, grated Parmesan cheese (reserve a small amount for garnish), egg, garlic, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper to the soaked bread. Mix everything together until well combined.
- Shape the mixture into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter.
- Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Fry the meatballs in batches, turning occasionally, until they are golden brown and cooked through, about 7-10 minutes per batch. Remove from the skillet and set aside on a plate lined with paper towels to drain.
- Assemble the casserole: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large baking dish, spread 1 cup of marinara sauce on the bottom. Arrange the cooked meatballs on top of the sauce.
- Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the meatballs, then sprinkle with shredded mozzarella cheese and the reserved Parmesan cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish with additional chopped parsley and serve hot.
Notes
- You can use homemade marinara sauce for a richer flavor, or store-bought for convenience.
- Feel free to add extra herbs or spices to the meatball mixture, such as oregano or red pepper flakes, to adjust the flavor to your liking.
- The casserole can be made ahead of time and baked just before serving, or stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking, Frying
- Cuisine: Italian, American