Layered Meatball Casserole

Craving a delicious, easy-to-prepare meal that combines all your favorite Italian-inspired flavors? This Layered Meatball Casserole is about to become your new go-to dinner solution.

Imagine layers of juicy meatballs, rich marinara sauce, creamy cheese mixture, and crispy garlic toast – all baked to perfection in one mouthwatering dish that will have everyone at the table asking for seconds.

Layered Meatball Casserole: A Cheesy, Saucy Delight

This casserole recipe transforms classic meatball ingredients into a convenient, crowd-pleasing meal. It combines the comfort of a home-cooked Italian dinner with the ease of a one-dish wonder.

Get ready to discover a recipe that's both simple to prepare and incredibly delicious.

Serving Suggestions:

Elevate your Layered Meatball Casserole with these delightful accompaniments:

• Fresh green salad
• Crispy baked potato wedges
• Garlic bread
• Steamed vegetables
• Extra marinara sauce for dipping

Pro Tips for the Perfect Layered Meatball Casserole:

Meatball Management: Use thawed meatballs for even heating and best texture.

Cream Cheese Technique: Ensure cream cheese is fully softened for smooth mixing.

Cheese Distribution: Sprinkle cheese evenly for maximum melty goodness.

Toast Placement: Trim garlic toast if needed to create a perfect base layer.

Make-Ahead Magic: Assemble the casserole in advance and refrigerate before baking.

Layered Meatball Casserole Recipe Details:

• Preparation time: 20 minutes
• Cooking time: 35-40 minutes
• Servings: 6-8
• Equipment: 9x13-inch casserole dish, mixing bowls, skillet

Ingredients:

For the Casserole Base:

• 1 (24 oz) bag frozen meatballs, thawed (or 1 ½ lbs homemade cooked meatballs)
• 1 (24 oz) jar marinara or pasta sauce
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• ½ cup sour cream
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 (12 oz) package frozen garlic Texas toast (about 6 slices), thawed
• Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)

Directions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F. Carefully grease a 9x13-inch casserole dish to prevent sticking.
2. In a medium mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Whisk until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
3. Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly across the bottom of the prepared casserole dish.
4. Arrange the thawed garlic toast slices in a single layer over the cream cheese base. Trim the slices if necessary to ensure complete coverage.
5. In a skillet or saucepan, warm the meatballs with marinara sauce. Heat thoroughly, ensuring the meatballs are evenly coated with sauce.
6. Carefully pour the saucy meatballs over the garlic toast layer, distributing them evenly.
7. Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the top of the meatballs.
8. Cover the casserole with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
9. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, golden, and bubbling.

Ready to Enjoy!

Allow the casserole to rest for 5 minutes before serving. This helps the layers set and makes cutting easier.

Storage Solutions:

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days
• Reheat in the oven at 350°F for best results
• Can be frozen for up to 1 month
• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating

Whether you're feeding a hungry family or hosting a casual dinner, this Layered Meatball Casserole promises to be a crowd-pleasing sensation that combines comfort, flavor, and pure deliciousness.

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