There’s nothing quite like pulling a bubbling, cheesy Baked Meatball Casserole out of the oven. The aroma alone—savory meatballs, tangy marinara, and melted mozzarella—will have everyone gathering around the table before you even call them to eat. Whether you need a quick weeknight dinner, a dish for potlucks, or a freezer-friendly meal prep option, this casserole delivers every time.
Let’s walk through everything you need to know to make the best Baked Meatball Casserole—from selecting the right ingredients to customizing it for different tastes. By the end, you’ll have a foolproof recipe that earns rave reviews every time.
Why This Baked Meatball Casserole Will Become Your Go-To Meal
Before diving into the recipe, let’s talk about why this dish is a must-try:
✔ Effortless to Make – No complicated techniques, just simple layering and baking.
✔ Crowd-Pleasing Flavor – Juicy meatballs, rich sauce, and gooey cheese? Always a hit.
✔ Meal Prep Hero – Assemble ahead, freeze, or reheat leftovers with ease.
✔ Endlessly Adaptable – Swap meats, cheeses, or sauces to suit your cravings.
If you’ve ever wished for a meal that’s both comforting and convenient, this casserole is your answer.
Gathering Your Ingredients: What You’ll Need
A great Baked Meatball Casserole starts with quality ingredients. Here’s what to grab:
For the Meatballs (Makes about 24 meatballs)
| Ingredient | Quantity | Best Choices & Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Ground beef | 1 lb | 80/20 blend for juiciness |
| Breadcrumbs | ½ cup | Panko for crispness |
| Egg | 1 large | Binds everything together |
| Parmesan cheese | ¼ cup, grated | Freshly grated tastes best |
| Garlic | 2 cloves, minced | Adds depth of flavor |
| Italian seasoning | 1 tsp | Or mix basil, oregano, parsley |
| Salt & pepper | To taste | Don’t skimp—season well! |
For the Casserole Assembly
| Ingredient | Quantity | Pro Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Marinara sauce | 24 oz | Homemade or high-quality jarred |
| Mozzarella cheese | 2 cups, shredded | Whole-milk melts better |
| Ricotta cheese | ½ cup (optional) | Adds creamy richness |
| Fresh basil | For garnish | Brightens up the dish |
Shortcut Option: Use pre-made meatballs if you’re pressed for time—just adjust baking as needed.
Step-by-Step Instructions for the Perfect Casserole
1. Preparing the Meatballs
- Mix the ingredients – In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Shape the meatballs – Roll into 1-inch balls (about 24). For even cooking, keep them uniform.
- Optional sear – For extra flavor, brown them in a skillet for 2-3 minutes per side before baking.
2. Layering the Casserole
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Spread a thin layer of marinara in a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Arrange meatballs evenly over the sauce.
- Pour remaining sauce over the top, ensuring all meatballs are coated.
- Sprinkle cheeses – Mozzarella first, then dollops of ricotta if using.
3. Baking to Golden, Bubbly Perfection
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until cheese is melted and sauce is bubbling.
- For a crispy top, broil for 1-2 minutes (watch closely to avoid burning).
- Let it rest 5 minutes before serving—this helps it set.
- Garnish with fresh basil for a pop of color and freshness.