Description
Mediterranean meatball casserole melds robust flavors from Greek and Italian cuisine into one comforting dish. Hearty ingredients combine with rich seasonings, promising a satisfying meal that brings warmth and zest to your dinner table.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef or pork
- 1 lb cooked pasta (penne or rigatoni)
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
Meatball Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Seasoning and Garnish:
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
- Fresh basil (optional)
- Cooking spray
Instructions
- Heat the oven to 375F (190C) and coat a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Create meatballs by mixing ground beef with breadcrumbs, Parmesan, egg, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Form into compact, bite-sized spheres and roast at 375F for 15-20 minutes until golden brown.
- Simultaneously prepare pasta according to package instructions, then drain thoroughly and set aside.
- Construct the first layer in the baking dish by spreading half of the cooked pasta across the bottom, followed by an even distribution of marinara sauce and half of the roasted meatballs.
- Sprinkle the first layer with half of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, ensuring comprehensive coverage.
- Replicate the layering process with remaining pasta, marinara sauce, meatballs, and cheese to create a complete, hearty casserole.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until cheese transforms into a golden, bubbling surface that signals complete heating.
- Optional: Garnish with fresh basil leaves for an aromatic finish before serving the casserole piping hot.
Notes
- Swap ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner protein option, perfect for health-conscious cooks looking to reduce saturated fat intake.
- Create gluten-free meatballs by using almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs instead of traditional breadcrumbs, ensuring those with wheat sensitivities can enjoy this hearty dish.
- Enhance meal prep efficiency by preparing meatballs and pasta a day ahead, allowing you to quickly assemble and bake the casserole when ready to serve.
- Add extra vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers between layers to boost nutritional value and introduce more color and texture to the casserole.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6
- Calories: 402 kcal
- Sugar: 5 g
- Sodium: 580 mg
- Fat: 22 g
- Saturated Fat: 10 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11 g
- Trans Fat: 0.5 g
- Carbohydrates: 25 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 30 g
- Cholesterol: 85 mg