Layered Meatball Casserole
Layered Meatball Casserole is a comforting and hearty baked dish that combines tender meatballs, rich marinara sauce, melted mozzarella and parmesan cheeses, and perfectly cooked pasta in satisfying layers. Easy to prepare and customizable, this recipe is perfect for family dinners or meal prepping, offering a delicious balance of flavors and textures in every bite.
- Author: Elena
- Prep Time: 20-30 minutes
- Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
- Total Time: 55-70 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Gluten Free (if gluten-free pasta and breadcrumbs are used)
Meatball Ingredients
- 1 lb ground meat (beef or meat blend)
- ½ cup breadcrumbs (use gluten-free if needed)
- 1 large egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Sauce and Pasta
- 3 cups marinara sauce
- 12 oz cooked pasta (penne or rigatoni, gluten-free if desired)
- 1 tbsp olive oil (to toss pasta)
Cheeses
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Herbs and Spices
- Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional garnish)
- Red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)
- Prepare the Meatballs: In a large bowl, combine ground meat, breadcrumbs, egg, minced garlic, onion powder, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined to keep meatballs tender. Roll mixture into evenly sized meatballs, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. Brown them in a skillet over medium heat until they develop a crust but are not completely cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Set aside.
- Cook the Pasta: Boil pasta in salted water until al dente, according to package instructions. Drain well and toss with olive oil to prevent sticking. Let the pasta cool slightly before assembling the casserole.
- Assemble the Casserole: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce at the bottom of a baking dish. Add a layer of cooked pasta, followed by a layer of meatballs. Spoon more marinara sauce over the meatballs, then sprinkle a generous layer of shredded mozzarella cheese. Repeat these layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with a thick layer of mozzarella cheese and a sprinkle of Parmesan on top.
- Bake to Perfection: Cover the casserole dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. Remove from oven and let rest for 5-10 minutes before serving to set the layers.
Notes
- Use a cookie scoop or measuring spoon to make uniform meatballs for even cooking.
- Do not overmix meatball ingredients to avoid tough texture.
- Spread sauce evenly on every layer to avoid dryness.
- Rest casserole after baking for easier slicing and serving.
- Add fresh basil or parsley just before serving for brightness.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 750mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
Keywords: meatball casserole, layered casserole, baked pasta, comfort food, easy dinner, family meal, gluten-free casserole