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In the world of comforting family meals, few dishes evoke warmth and nostalgia quite like a savory meatball casserole. This delightful dish not only brings together the rich flavors of seasoned meatballs, gooey cheese, and a medley of aromatic ingredients, but it also serves as a canvas for creativity, allowing home cooks to personalize it to their preferences. Whether it's a chilly weeknight dinner or a festive gathering with loved ones, a meatball casserole is the epitome of comfort food, filling bellies and hearts alike.

Meatball Casserole

Discover the warmth of home-cooked meals with the Savory Meatball Casserole Delight! This comforting dish features juicy, seasoned meatballs enveloped in rich tomato sauce and topped with gooey mozzarella cheese. Perfect for chilly evenings or festive gatherings, this casserole is customizable with various ingredients, making it a hit with kids and adults alike. Enjoy a well-rounded meal that brings families together and fills hearts with joy. Dive into this delightful recipe and create lasting memories around your dinner table!
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Ingredients
  

1 lb (450g) ground beef or turkey

1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably Italian-style)

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (or 1 tbsp dried)

1 large egg, beaten

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 tsp onion powder

1 tsp Italian seasoning

Salt and pepper to taste

2 cups marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

1/2 cup sliced black olives (optional)

Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions
 

Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

    Prepare the Meatballs:

      - In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef or turkey, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, beaten egg, minced garlic, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overwork the meat.

        - Shape the mixture into golf ball-sized meatballs and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet. You should yield about 20 meatballs.

          Bake the Meatballs:

            - Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes, or until they are browned and cooked through.

              Assemble the Casserole:

                - In a 9x13 inch (or similar) casserole dish, spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom.

                  - Arrange half of the baked meatballs over the sauce. Pour half of the remaining marinara sauce over the meatballs.

                    - Sprinkle half of the shredded mozzarella cheese on top.

                      - Repeat the layers with the remaining meatballs, sauce, and cheese. Add sliced black olives on top if using.

                        Bake the Casserole:

                          - Cover the dish with aluminum foil (to prevent the cheese from browning too quickly) and bake for 25 minutes.

                            - Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

                              Garnish and Serve:

                                - Once out of the oven, let the casserole sit for about 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired, and serve hot.

                                  Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 20 minutes | 55 minutes | Serves 6-8