- 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
Step 1: Prepare the Meatballs
- Preheat your oven to 190°C (375°F).
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, minced garlic, parsley, paprika, black pepper, and salt. Mix thoroughly until well blended.
- Shape the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter, and place them on a baking tray lined with parchment paper.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes or until lightly browned. Set aside.
Step 2: Make the Sauce
- While the meatballs are baking, prepare the sauce.
- In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine marinara sauce, heavy cream, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well and simmer for 5 minutes. Remove from heat.
Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
- In a large casserole dish, pour a thin layer of the prepared sauce at the bottom.
- Arrange the baked meatballs evenly in the dish.
- Pour the remaining sauce over the meatballs, ensuring they are fully coated.
- Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top, followed by the grated Parmesan.
Step 4: Bake and Garnish
- Place the casserole dish in the oven and bake for 20 minutes or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes.
- Garnish with chopped chives or parsley before serving.
Serving Suggestions
This Cheesy Meatball Casserole pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad, crusty garlic bread, or buttered noodles. It’s also versatile enough to be served with steamed vegetables or rice for a complete, balanced meal.
Comfort food at its finest, this Cheesy Meatball Casserole combines simple ingredients with bold flavors for a meal that’s as easy to make as it is delicious. The tender meatballs, rich marinara cream sauce, and gooey cheese topping come together to create a dish that feels indulgent but is surprisingly easy to prepare. Try this recipe for your next dinner, and watch as it becomes a new family favorite. With just 55 minutes of total prep and cooking time, it’s perfect for any day of the week!
