Cheesy Meatballs Casserole

Comfort food holds a special place in our hearts and on our dinner tables. It’s the category of cuisine that evokes nostalgia, warmth, and a sense of belonging. Whether it's a rainy day or a family gathering, comfort foods have the power to uplift spirits and create lasting memories. Among the myriad of dishes that fall under this beloved category, Cheesy Blissful Meatballs Casserole stands out as a perfect family meal that combines rich flavors, satisfying textures, and ease of preparation.

Discover the joy of homemade comfort food with Cheesy Blissful Meatballs Casserole. This delicious dish features tender meatballs smothered in rich marinara sauce, topped with layers of gooey mozzarella and savory Parmesan. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, the casserole is as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, it’s time to elevate your dinner routine with this heartwarming recipe that everyone will love.

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Ingredients

For the Meatballs:

1 lb ground beef

1/2 cup breadcrumbs

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 large egg

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

For the Casserole:

2 cups marinara sauce

1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

1/2 cup cream cheese, softened

1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

1/2 cup sliced black olives (optional)

Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Make the Meatballs:

- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, minced garlic, egg, oregano, salt, and black pepper.

- Mix until everything is evenly incorporated.

- Roll the mixture into 1-inch meatballs and set aside.

Brown the Meatballs:

- In a large skillet over medium heat, add a splash of olive oil.

- Add the meatballs in batches, cooking for about 5-7 minutes until browned on all sides (they don’t need to be cooked through at this stage).

- Remove the meatballs from the skillet and set them aside.

Prepare the Casserole:

- In the same skillet, pour in the marinara sauce. If you like a little heat, sprinkle in the red pepper flakes.

- Stir in the cream cheese until melted and well combined.

- Add the browned meatballs back into the skillet and gently stir to coat them in the sauce.

Assemble the Casserole:

- Transfer the meatball and sauce mixture to a greased 9x13 inch baking dish.

- Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top, covering the meatballs and sauce completely.

Bake:

- Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.