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Tips for Making the Best Meatball Casserole
1. Don’t Skip the Parmesan in the Meatballs
Parmesan cheese adds a savory depth to the meatballs, so it’s worth including. If you don’t have Parmesan, you can use Romano or another hard cheese for similar results.
2. Use a High-Quality Marinara Sauce
Since marinara is a big part of this casserole, use a high-quality or homemade sauce for the best flavor. You can add extra garlic, herbs, or red pepper flakes to spice it up!
3. Make It a Full Meal with Pasta
To turn this into a more filling, pasta-style casserole, add cooked pasta (like penne or rigatoni) before baking. Mix it in with the sauce for a one-dish meal.
4. Try Different Cheese Blends
For a richer, cheesier flavor, use a combination of mozzarella, provolone, and Parmesan. You can even add ricotta for a lasagna-like twist.
Recipe Variations
- Spicy Meatball Casserole: Add red pepper flakes to the sauce or use spicy Italian sausage in place of some of the ground beef.
- Vegetable-Loaded Casserole: Include spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers for added color and nutrients.
- Cheesy Alfredo Meatball Casserole: Swap out the marinara for Alfredo sauce and use Italian seasoning for a creamy, indulgent version.
How to Store Meatball Casserole
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: Freeze unbaked casserole by assembling it in a freezer-safe dish and covering it tightly with plastic wrap and foil. When ready to bake, thaw in the fridge overnight and then bake as directed.
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