Midwest Meatball Casserole

This Midwest Meatball Casserole is a classic comfort dish that brings together hearty flavors and simple ingredients in one satisfying meal. Combining juicy, seasoned meatballs with tender pasta and a rich, tomato-based sauce, this casserole is a perfect blend of savory goodness that evokes the warmth and heartiness of traditional Midwestern home cooking. Topped with melted cheese and baked until bubbly, it’s a dish that’s as comforting as it is delicious, ideal for family dinners or potluck gatherings. Serve it with a side of garlic bread and a green salad for a complete and hearty meal.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1/2 lb ground pork
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 1 large egg
• 1/2 tsp dried oregano
• 1/2 tsp dried basil
• 2 cups cooked pasta (such as penne or rotini)
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp olive oil

Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or casserole dish.
2. Make Meatballs: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, egg, oregano, basil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined, but avoid overmixing. Shape the mixture into 1-inch meatballs and place them on a baking sheet.
3. Cook Meatballs: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Transfer the browned meatballs to a plate and set aside.
4. Prepare Casserole: In the same skillet, pour in the marinara sauce and bring it to a simmer. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to combine with the sauce.
5. Assemble: Spread the pasta and sauce mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish. Nestle the meatballs into the pasta, ensuring they are evenly distributed. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheeses on top.
6. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the casserole is heated through.
7. Serve: Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with additional chopped parsley if desired and enjoy with garlic bread or a fresh salad.

This Midwest Meatball Casserole is the perfect blend of comfort and flavor, making it an excellent choice for a cozy family meal or a crowd-pleasing dish at your next gathering.