Comfort Food Meatball Casserole

Name: Comfort Food Meatball Casserole
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 egg; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon dried basil; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 cups marinara sauce; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Highlighted under: Family Comfort Food Favorites

I absolutely adore a hearty meal that warms both the heart and the stomach, which is why I often turn to my Comfort Food Meatball Casserole. This dish combines juicy meatballs with a rich tomato sauce and gooey cheese, all baked together in one cozy dish. It’s easy to prepare and satisfying, making it perfect for family gatherings or a comforting weeknight dinner. The aromatic spices come together wonderfully, creating a meal that feels both indulgent and homey. You’ll love how simple and delicious it can be to whip up!

Created by

Beatrice Holloway

Last updated on 2026-02-02T02:05:35.489Z

When I first decided to make this Comfort Food Meatball Casserole, I knew I wanted to create something that would resonate with everyone at the table. After several experiments, I found that incorporating Italian herbs into the meat mixture truly enhances the flavors. It's amazing how something as simple as oregano and basil can elevate a comforting meal into a delicious family favorite!

One method that works wonders is browning the meatballs before baking. This step adds a beautiful caramelization and depth to the casserole that truly makes it irresistible. I promise, once you try this approach, you’ll never look back on simple simmering!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Hearty meatballs baked to perfection with mozzarella cheese melting over the top.
A delightful balance of flavors that combines sweetness and acidity from the sauce.
Perfectly suited for leftovers that taste even better the next day.

The Importance of Homemade Meatballs

Making your own meatballs is key for the best flavor and texture in this dish. The combination of ground beef, breadcrumbs, and Parmesan creates a juicy, tender bite that store-bought meatballs simply can't replicate. I recommend using 80/20 ground beef for a good balance of fat and lean meat, which ensures your meatballs are moist without being greasy. Additionally, don't skip the fresh garlic; it adds a great aromatic profile that elevates the overall taste of the casserole.

When forming your meatballs, aim for uniform size—about one inch in diameter—so they cook evenly. If you find your mixture is too wet or crumbly, add a little more breadcrumbs or an extra egg to bind everything together. Browning the meatballs in a skillet not only caramelizes their surfaces for added flavor but also seals in juices, preventing them from drying out in the oven.

Choosing the Right Marinara Sauce

The marinara sauce is crucial to the success of this casserole. A well-balanced sauce can make or break your dish—look for one that has a good mixture of sweetness and acidity. If you prefer homemade, simmer crushed tomatoes with garlic, onions, and a splash of red wine for complexity. When layering the sauce in the baking dish, spreading half at the bottom helps to prevent the meatballs from sticking and adds an extra layer of flavor underneath.

Moreover, feel free to diversify your marinara by adding spices like red pepper flakes or Italian herbs. If you're looking for a lighter option, you can substitute marinara with a homemade or store-bought roasted red pepper sauce for a smoky undertone that pairs beautifully with the cheese and meatballs.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create your Comfort Food Meatball Casserole:

For the Meatballs

1 pound ground beef
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 egg
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Casserole

2 cups marinara sauce
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Follow these steps to prepare your Comfort Food Meatball Casserole:

Prepare the Meatballs

In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, minced garlic, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Mix well and form into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.

Brown the Meatballs

In a large skillet, heat a little oil over medium heat. Brown the meatballs on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Assemble the Casserole

In a baking dish, spread half of the marinara sauce on the bottom. Place the browned meatballs on top, then pour the remaining marinara sauce over. Top with shredded mozzarella cheese.

Bake the Casserole

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Serve and Enjoy

Let the casserole sit for a few minutes before garnishing with chopped parsley. Serve hot and enjoy the comforting flavors!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, add some crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce for a hint of spice. You can also substitute ground turkey for a lighter option without compromising on taste.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This casserole is a fantastic make-ahead dish. You can prepare the meatballs and assemble the casserole a day in advance, storing it covered in the refrigerator until you're ready to bake. If you do this, consider adding a few extra minutes to the baking time to ensure everything is heated through. Alternatively, you can freeze it before baking for up to three months; just make sure to wrap it tightly to avoid freezer burn.

When reheating leftovers, place the casserole in a baking dish and cover it with foil to keep the moisture in. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until warm and bubbly. If you're short on time, portion it out and microwave individual servings, but be aware that this may affect the texture of the cheese.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

For a cozy meal, serve the casserole with a side of garlic bread or a simple green salad dressed with vinaigrette. The freshness of the salad can balance the richness of the meatballs and cheese. For something a little different, try serving it over cooked pasta or alongside creamy polenta to absorb all that delicious sauce.

You can also mix things up by adding sautéed vegetables such as bell peppers or zucchini to the marinara layer. This not only boosts the nutrition but also adds extra texture and flavor. Another fun variation is to switch the cheese; try using provolone or gouda for a unique twist!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make the meatballs ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the meatballs and refrigerate them for up to a day before baking.

→ Can I freeze the casserole?

Yes, it freezes well. Just assemble it without baking, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months.

→ What can I serve with this casserole?

Garlic bread or a side salad makes a great pairing with this hearty dish.

→ Can I use different types of cheese?

Definitely! Feel free to mix in cheddar or provolone for a different flavor profile.