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As the aroma of savory meatballs fills the kitchen, the anticipation of a comforting meal builds, promising warmth and satisfaction for all. The Savory Meatball Casserole Delight is not just a simple dish; it's a hearty embrace on a plate that brings families together around the dinner table. Casseroles have long held a special place in the hearts of home cooks, offering an effortless way to combine flavors and textures into one delightful dish.

Meatball Casserole

Discover the heartwarming goodness of Savory Meatball Casserole Delight, a dish that brings families together around the dinner table. This easy-to-make casserole combines juicy meatballs, flavorful marinara, tender rice, and nutritious vegetables for a satisfying meal. Perfect for busy weeknights or gatherings, it's a nourishing and comforting option everyone will love. Explore ingredient variations and serving suggestions to make it your own!
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Ingredients
  

For the Meatballs:

1 lb ground beef (or a mix of ground beef and pork)

1/2 cup breadcrumbs (Italian seasoned preferred)

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 large egg

1 tsp dried oregano

1 tsp dried basil

1/2 tsp salt

1/2 tsp black pepper

2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

For the Casserole:

2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)

1 cup cooked rice (white or brown)

2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

1/2 cup bell pepper, diced

1/2 cup onion, diced

1 tsp Italian seasoning

Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

Instructions
 

Make the Meatballs:

    - In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, egg, oregano, basil, salt, pepper, and parsley. Mix until well combined.

      - Shape the mixture into 1-inch meatballs and set aside.

        Cook the Meatballs:

          - Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

            - In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the meatballs on all sides (about 7-10 minutes). They don’t need to be fully cooked through as they will finish in the oven. Remove from skillet and set aside.

              Prepare the Casserole:

                - In the same skillet, sauté the diced bell pepper and onion until translucent (about 5 minutes). Remove from heat.

                  - In a large mixing bowl, combine marinara sauce, cooked rice, sautéed bell pepper, and onion. Mix until well blended.

                    Layer the Casserole:

                      - In a greased 9x13-inch baking dish, spread half of the rice mixture on the bottom.

                        - Place the browned meatballs evenly over the rice layer.

                          - Top with the remaining rice mixture, spreading evenly across the meatballs.

                            - Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the top.

                              Bake:

                                - Cover the casserole with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.

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

                                    Garnish and Serve:

                                      - Once baked, allow the casserole to cool for 5-10 minutes. Garnish with fresh basil if desired.

                                        - Serve warm and enjoy the hearty flavors!

                                          Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 20 minutes | 1 hour | 6 servings