Meatball Parmesan Casserole

Meatball Parmesan Casserole

Meatball Parmesan Casserole

Looking to spice up your dinner routine with a mouthwatering dish that’s easy to make and guaranteed to impress? This Meatball Parmesan Casserole is here to save the day!

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb frozen meatballs
  • 1 jar marinara sauce
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

  • Preheat your oven to 375°F.
  • In a large mixing bowl, combine the frozen meatballs, marinara sauce, 1 cup of mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
  • Transfer the mixture into a casserole dish and top with the remaining mozzarella cheese.
  • Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
  • Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
  • Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.

Popular questions:

  • Q: Can I use homemade meatballs instead of frozen?

    • A: Yes, you can definitely use homemade meatballs in this recipe. Just make sure they are cooked before adding them to the casserole.

  • Q: Is it necessary to cover the dish with foil?

    • A: Covering the dish helps the meatballs cook through and prevents the cheese from getting too browned too quickly. However, you can skip this step if you prefer.

  • Q: Can I add other vegetables to this casserole?

    • A: Feel free to add diced bell peppers, onions, or mushrooms to amp up the veggie content of this dish.

  • Q: How can I make this dish spicy?

    • A: Add red pepper flakes or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper to the marinara sauce for a spicy kick.

  • Q: Can I use a different type of cheese?

    • A: You can substitute the mozzarella with provolone or a blend of Italian cheeses for a different flavor profile.

Helpful tips:

  • For extra flavor, brown the meatballs in a skillet before adding them to the casserole.
  • Serve the casserole with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad.
  • If you prefer a lighter version, use turkey or chicken meatballs instead of beef.
  • Add a sprinkle of dried red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
  • Try adding a layer of cooked pasta like spaghetti or penne to the casserole for a heartier meal.

Expert Secrets:

  • To prevent the cheese from sticking to the foil, lightly grease the underside of the foil before covering the casserole.
  • Let the casserole sit for a few minutes before serving to allow it to set and make it easier to slice into neat portions.
  • For a crispy topping, broil the casserole for the last 2-3 minutes of baking.
  • Experiment with different types of marinara sauce to find your favorite flavor combination.
  • Customize the seasonings to suit your taste preferences by adding more or less Italian seasoning and garlic powder.

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