If you’re searching for pure comfort food in a single dish, Meatball Casserole is about to become your new obsession. Imagine juicy, savory meatballs snuggled in a bubbling bed of rich marinara and melted cheese, all baked together until golden and irresistibly gooey. Whether you crave a hearty weeknight dinner or a dish that will make your guests swoon, this recipe is easy to love and even easier to customize. Every bite promises that cozy, classic Italian flavor, while the cheesy, saucy layers invite you back for seconds—if there’s any left!

Meatball Casserole Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Simple pantry staples come together to make Meatball Casserole a hearty, flavor-packed meal. Each ingredient plays a key role, whether creating the perfect tender meatball or bringing the finishing cheesy touch to the casserole’s bubbling top.

Ground beef or turkey: Use your favorite ground meat for juicy meatballs—the higher the fat content, the richer the flavor.
Bread crumbs: These help bind the meatballs and keep them moist, not dense.
Milk: Soaking the breadcrumbs in milk gives the meatballs a fluffy, light texture.
Egg: Just one will hold everything together without making the mixture tough.
Parmesan cheese: Adds a boost of salty, nutty flavor to the meatballs.
Italian seasoning: A classic blend that brings herby depth to each bite.
Garlic and onion powder: For a delicious kick of savory flavor without the hassle of chopping.
Salt and pepper: To brighten and enhance every element of the casserole.
Marinara sauce: Choose your favorite jarred or homemade sauce—they all play beautifully in this dish.
Mozzarella cheese: Gooey and melty, this cheese creates that iconic casserole top.
Fresh basil or parsley (optional): For a pop of color and fresh flavor at the finish line.

How to Make Meatball Casserole

Step 1: Mix and Form the Meatballs

In a large bowl, combine the ground meat, bread crumbs soaked in milk, egg, Parmesan, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined—over-mixing can make your meatballs tough. Scoop and roll the mixture into ping-pong-sized balls, nestling them on a plate or tray as you go.

Step 2: Brown the Meatballs

In a large skillet, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium-high heat. Brown the meatballs in batches, turning them to get a golden crust on each side. They don’t need to cook through just yet; the oven will finish the job. This step amps up their flavor and firm texture.

Step 3: Assemble the Meatball Casserole

Spoon some marinara sauce in the bottom of your casserole dish to keep everything from sticking. Arrange the browned meatballs in an even layer. Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the top, making sure every meatball gets a generous coating. Blanket the entire thing with mozzarella cheese, and don’t be shy about it—the cheesier, the better!

Step 4: Bake Until Bubbling

Slide the casserole dish into a preheated oven (about 375°F) and bake for 25–30 minutes, until the cheese is beautifully melted and bubbly, and the meatballs are cooked through. If you like, you can pop the dish under the broiler for the last couple of minutes to brown the cheese just a bit more.

Step 5: Rest and Garnish

Let your Meatball Casserole rest for 5–10 minutes before serving—this helps everything settle and makes it easier to dish out. Finish with torn basil or chopped parsley for a fresh, colorful touch and serve hot.

How to Serve Meatball Casserole

Garnishes

A handful of fresh basil leaves or a scatter of parsley is all you need to elevate the dish with color and flavor. If you’re feeling decadent, a sprinkle of extra Parmesan or a drizzle of good olive oil adds a rich touch. Even a pinch of crushed red pepper brings gentle heat for spice-lovers.

Side Dishes

Meatball Casserole is hearty on its own, but it truly shines with classic sides. Serve it over a plate of spaghetti for a crowd-pleasing twist, or alongside warm garlic bread to mop up every bit of sauce. A crisp green salad with a punchy vinaigrette balances the dish’s richness and adds freshness to your plate.

Creative Ways to Present

Your Meatball Casserole doesn’t have to be a formal affair! Try serving individual portions in ramekins for a dinner party, or spoon the meatballs onto toasted hoagie buns for epic meatball subs. For a family feast, pair it with roasted veggies or spread across a bed of creamy polenta for an Italian-inspired comfort food night.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, Meatball Casserole stores beautifully. Let the dish cool completely, then transfer it into airtight containers and refrigerate for up to 4 days. The flavors only get better as they meld together!

Freezing

To freeze, assemble the entire casserole up to the point of baking. Wrap tightly in foil and freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge, then bake as directed. You can also freeze baked leftovers—just remember to reheat gently to keep the cheese melty.

Reheating

Warm leftover Meatball Casserole in a 350°F oven, covered with foil, until heated through. If you’re in a hurry, the microwave works just fine; heat in short bursts to keep the cheese gooey and the sauce from drying out.

FAQs

Can I use frozen meatballs for this casserole?

Absolutely! If you’re short on time, store-bought frozen meatballs are a fantastic shortcut. Just add them to the casserole with the sauce and cheese and bake until everything is hot and bubbly.

Is it possible to make Meatball Casserole gluten-free?

Yes! Swap out regular bread crumbs for your favorite gluten-free variety, and double-check your marinara and other ingredients to ensure everything stays gluten-free. You won’t miss a thing.

What other cheeses can I use besides mozzarella?

Mozzarella is melty and mild, but feel free to get creative! Try provolone, fontina, or a blend of Italian cheeses for a more complex flavor and a golden, stretchy top.

Can I add vegetables to the casserole?

Definitely. Sautéed bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach work wonderfully. Layer them in with the meatballs and sauce for extra color, nutrition, and flavor.

Does Meatball Casserole work for meal prep?

It’s a meal prep superstar. You can assemble it up to a day ahead and bake it off when you’re ready, or keep cooked portions in the fridge or freezer for lunches and dinners throughout the week.

Final Thoughts

There’s just something magical about a bubbling, cheesy Meatball Casserole that brings everyone running to the table. Don’t be afraid to make it your own—experiment, share, and savor every bite. You’ll love how easy and satisfying this classic dish can be, and I can’t wait to hear how it turns out in your kitchen!

Meatball Casserole Recipe