Craving something warm and comforting for dinner? This Easy Cheesy Meatball Casserole is a surefire hit for family meals.
It’s a simple dish that brings together tender meatballs, gooey cheese, and zesty marinara sauce, all baked to perfection. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a cozy weekend gathering, this casserole promises to delight everyone at the table.
Prepare to savor every cheesy, hearty bite!
Steps
- Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Arrange the Carando Abruzzese meatballs on a baking sheet lined with aluminum foil and bake them for 15-20 minutes, turning them once halfway through, until they reach an internal temperature of at least 165 degrees.
- In a 9×13 baking dish or large round pan, mix together marinara sauce with a few large handfuls of fresh spinach. This mixture will serve as the base for your casserole.
- Once the meatballs are cooked, place them in the baking dish, submerging them slightly into the marinara sauce and spinach mixture.
- Add dollops of ricotta cheese around the meatballs using a teaspoon to distribute it evenly across the dish.
- Sprinkle about a cup-and-a-half of shredded whole milk mozzarella cheese over the entire dish. Place the casserole in the oven and bake at 375 degrees for 30 minutes until it is bubbly.
- For an optional touch of browning, switch your oven to broil and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until the cheese begins to brown.
Ingredients
- Carando Abruzzese Meatballs
- Marinara sauce
- Fresh spinach (a few large handfuls)
- Ricotta cheese (large teaspoonfuls)
- Shredded whole milk mozzarella cheese (about 1.5 cups)
Nutritional Values
Calories: 4020 kcal | Carbohydrates: 91.8g | Protein: 229.8g | Fat: 301.2g | Saturated Fat: 124.8g | Cholesterol: 858mg | Sodium: 10099.8mg | Fiber: 13.8g | Sugar: 40.2g
FAQ
- Can I use frozen meatballs instead of fresh for this recipe?
- Yes, you can substitute frozen meatballs for the fresh Carando Abruzzese Meatballs. Just make sure to thaw them properly and follow the package instructions for browning before using them in the casserole.
- What are some serving suggestions for the cheesy meatball casserole?
- This versatile casserole can be served as is or you can enhance it by serving over cooked pasta, rice, or even in a sandwich roll for a delicious meatball sub.
- Can I add any other vegetables to the casserole?
- Absolutely! While fresh spinach is recommended for its mild flavor and nutritional benefits, you can also add other vegetables such as bell peppers or mushrooms for added texture and taste.
- How can I ensure the cheese on top gets browned?
- To achieve a browned top, place the casserole under the broiler for 3-4 minutes after baking. Keep a close eye on it to prevent burning.
- Is this recipe gluten-free?
- The Carando Abruzzese Meatballs used in this recipe are gluten-free. However, make sure to check the labels on your marinara sauce and other ingredients to confirm they are also gluten-free if this is a dietary requirement for you.
Tips
- Enhance Flavor by Browning Meatballs: For added depth of flavor, consider browning the meatballs first on a foil-lined baking sheet. This simple step can elevate the taste of the entire casserole.
- Incorporate Fresh Spinach: Stir in fresh spinach with the marinara sauce. It blends seamlessly, adding a nutritional boost without overwhelming the dish. Plus, kids might not notice it, making it a win for picky eaters.
- Broil for a Golden Top: If you prefer a slightly crispy, golden cheese topping, place the casserole under the broiler for 3-4 minutes after baking. This will give the cheese a delightful texture and appearance.
- Versatile Serving Suggestions: Use this casserole as a base and serve it in various ways, such as over pasta, rice, or in a sub roll, to suit different tastes and stretch the meal further.
Equipment
- Aluminum foil-lined baking sheet – While many people have baking sheets, the specific mention of an aluminum foil-lined one might mean you need to purchase either the foil or an additional sheet.
- 9×13 baking dish or large round pan – A specific size of baking dish is required, which someone might not have if they don’t frequently cook casseroles.
