Mums Gone Gourmet Meatball Mozzarella Casserole
Mum's Gone Gourmet: Meatball & Mozzarella Casserole Recipe Introduction
Ever get that craving for something truly comforting? Like a warm hug in a dish? Honestly, this meatball casserole is exactly that.
Plus, it's a proper crowd pleaser. It’s like the good easy casseroles your Nan used to make, but with a bit of a gourmet twist.
Let's dive in, shall we?
What's the Story Behind This Meatball Magic?
This dish is all about that classic Italian American feel. Imagine a lazy Sunday dinner, family gathered round, and a bubbling meatball pasta bake being the star.
This recipe takes about 1 hour 15 minutes and is not super hard. It makes enough to feed 6-8 hungry people! Perfect for taking take dinner to a family in need.
Why You'll Be Obsessed
One of the best things? It's packed with protein. The meatballs give you a good energy boost. It is one of the best casserole dinners main dishes ever! This comfort food casserole recipe is seriously special.
It's not just another casserole; it's a flavour explosion. Perfect for a potluck supper ideas .
Let's Talk Ingredients
First, the meatballs. We're talking ground beef and pork combo, panko breadcrumbs, parmesan, and a dash of Italian seasoning. Then, a rich tomato sauce crushed tomatoes, onion, garlic, and herbs.
Finally, the star of the show: mozzarella meatball casserole . All nestled together with penne pasta. This recipe using meatballs will surely impress everyone.
This Isn't Just Any Casserole
There are tons of versions of italian meatball casserole . But the little details makes this one special. It's all about browning those meatballs properly for that flavour hit and not overcooking the pasta.
Trust me, al dente is the way to go. You can have a fantastic easy meatball casserole recipe in no time.
Ingredients & Equipment for Mum's Gone Gourmet Meatball Casserole
Ready to whip up this awesome meatball casserole ? Honestly, this is one of those good easy casseroles that everyone loves.
It's proper comfort food casserole , perfect for a potluck supper ideas , or even better, if you need to take dinner to a family .
You know those times, right? Let's get our ducks in a row!
Main Ingredients Breakdown
- Ground Beef: 1 lb (454g) . Go for an 80/20 blend for flavour.
- Ground Pork: 1/2 lb (227g) . Adds a lovely richness.
- Panko Breadcrumbs: 1/2 cup (50g) . For light and fluffy meatballs.
- Milk: 1/4 cup (60ml) . Helps bind everything together.
- Egg: 1 large , lightly beaten.
- Parmesan Cheese: 1/4 cup (25g) , grated.
- Garlic: 2 cloves , minced.
- Italian Seasoning: 1 tablespoon .
- Salt: 1 teaspoon .
- Black Pepper: 1/2 teaspoon .
- Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons , for browning.
- Olive Oil: 1 tablespoon (for the sauce)
- Onion: 1 small , finely chopped (about 1 cup/120g )
- Garlic: 2 cloves , minced (for the sauce)
- Crushed Tomatoes: 1 (28 ounce/794g) can .
- Tomato Sauce: 1 (15 ounce/425g) can .
- Oregano: 1 teaspoon , dried.
- Basil: 1/2 teaspoon , dried.
- Red Pepper Flakes: 1/4 teaspoon (optional).
- Sugar: 1 teaspoon . Balances the acidity
- Penne Pasta: 1 lb (454g) , dried.
- Mozzarella Cheese: 2 cups (approx. 227g) , shredded. Hello there, Mozzarella meatball casserole !
- Fresh Basil: 1/4 cup (approx. 15g) , chopped.
For the meat, look for fresh beef and pork at your local butcher if you can. Quality matters, you know?
Essential Seasoning Notes
Italian seasoning is your backbone here. It is the combination of oregano, basil, thyme, and rosemary. For extra depth, try a pinch of fennel seed.
A little sugar in the tomato sauce cuts through acidity. Plus, it really brings out all the tomato flavor. Seriously, you can taste all the difference.
No fennel seed? No problem!. Go for a pinch of anise as a fun little substitution. Don't like red pepper flakes? Leave them out! That is your choice.
Equipment You'll Actually Need
- Large mixing bowl
- Large skillet or Dutch oven
- 9x13 inch baking dish
- Colander
- Measuring cups and spoons
Don't have a fancy skillet? A large frying pan will work perfectly. And that baking dish? As long as it's oven safe, you're golden.
Whether you're using this recipe using meatballs for a casserole dinners main dishes , or turning it into a meatball pasta bake , this easy meatball casserole recipe is going to become your new go-to.
Mum's Gone Gourmet: Meatball & Mozzarella Casserole
Alright then, let's get cracking! A meatball casserole , eh? A true comfort food classic, like something your Nan used to make, but let's elevate it a bit, shall we? Think a bit more "MasterChef" and less… well, you know.
Honestly, this is one of the best good easy casseroles you can make. Perfect if you want to Take Dinner To A Family or looking for Potluck Supper Ideas .
This isn't your average meatball casserole! We're talking juicy, flavour packed meatballs simmered in a rich tomato sauce, nestled amongst perfectly cooked pasta and blanketed in melted mozzarella.
It’s a hearty, comforting dish with Italian American flair, perfect for a weeknight casserole dinners main dishes or a casual get-together.
Think lasagna, but without all the fuss. It's an easy meatball casserole recipe for a reason, mate!
Prep Steps: Get Your Act Together
First, the essential mise en place . Chop your onion. Mince your garlic. Measure out your ingredients. You know the drill! Being organised from the start saves you time and stress later.
Plus, you're less likely to forget something. Ever tried making a cake without eggs? Nightmare.
Meatball Magic: The step-by-step Guide
This is the heart of our Italian meatball casserole , so pay attention. Don't worry, it's not rocket science.
- Combine the meatball ingredients : In a large bowl, mix 1 lb (454g) ground beef , 1/2 lb (227g) ground pork , 1/2 cup (50g) panko breadcrumbs , 1/4 cup (60ml) milk , 1 large egg , 1/4 cup (25g) grated Parmesan cheese , 2 cloves garlic , 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning , 1 teaspoon salt , and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper . Be gentle!
- Roll 'em up : Form the mixture into approximately 1 inch meatballs. Don't make them too big or they won't cook evenly.
- Brown the balls : Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium high heat. Brown meatballs in batches until browned on all sides. We aren't cooking them through!
- Sauce it up : In the same skillet, sauté 1 chopped onion until softened. Add 2 cloves minced garlic and cook until fragrant. Stir in 1 (28 ounce/794g) can crushed tomatoes , 1 (15 ounce/425g) can tomato sauce , 1 teaspoon dried oregano , 1/2 teaspoon dried basil , 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional) , 1 teaspoon sugar , salt, and pepper. Simmer for 15 minutes .
- Pasta perfect : Cook 1 lb (454g) dried penne pasta according to package directions until al dente . Drain it. Nobody wants mushy pasta!
- Assemble! : Preheat oven to 375° F ( 190° C) . Combine pasta, sauce, and meatballs in a large bowl. Pour into a 9x13 inch baking dish .
- Cheese dreams : Sprinkle 2 cups (approx. 227g) shredded mozzarella evenly over the top. Bake for 20- 25 minutes , or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish : Before serving, garnish with 1/4 cup (approx. 15g) fresh basil .
Pro Tips for the Perfect Casserole Dinners Main Dishes
Don't overmix those meatballs! It's the key. Also, don't overcook the pasta - al dente is the name of the game for this meatball pasta bake .
For the best experience with this recipe using meatballs remember to let the casserole rest for 5- 10 minutes after baking.
This helps the sauce thicken and the flavors meld together. Talking about the recipe, don't be shy to use a bit of cayenne pepper for that extra comfort food casserole kick.
There you have it! A Mozzarella Meatball Casserole that's sure to be a crowd pleaser. Now, get cooking, and don't be afraid to put your own spin on it. Bon appétit!
Recipe Notes: Your Meatball Casserole, Your Way
Right, so you've got the Mum's Gone Gourmet: Meatball & Mozzarella Casserole recipe down. But every cook knows a recipe is just a starting point.
Let's chat about making this meatball casserole truly yours . This easy meatball casserole recipe is super versatile.
Plating Like a Pro & Perfect Partners
Honestly, presentation matters. For plating, think rustic charm. Serve straight from the baking dish for that comfort food casserole vibe. Garnish with a generous handful of fresh basil, really brighten it up.
Side wise, garlic bread is a must . It's perfect for soaking up all that delicious sauce. A simple green salad adds a bit of freshness.
This also makes good easy casseroles to Take Dinner To A Family , especially if paired with crusty bread. And for the grown ups? A nice glass of Italian red wine will definitely do the trick.
Storing for Later (or a Second Helping!)
Got leftovers? Lucky you! This Italian meatball casserole is even better the next day. For refrigeration, store in an airtight container for up to 3 days .
Freezing? Absolutely! Let it cool completely, then wrap it well or portion it into freezer safe containers. It'll keep for up to 2 months .
Reheat in the oven at 350° F ( 175° C) until heated through. Or, you know, microwave it for a quick fix.
Twists & Turns: Variations on a Theme
Feeling adventurous? Let's talk variations. Need a gluten-free option? Swap regular pasta for gluten-free. Use gluten-free breadcrumbs too, sorted.
Want to sneak in some veggies? Finely diced zucchini or carrots added to the sauce work wonders. Or, go spicy! Add extra red pepper flakes.
That is a great Recipe Using Meatballs if you love a kick! Thinking ahead for Potluck Supper Ideas ? This can be easily adapted for dietary needs.
The Good Stuff: Nutrition
Okay, let's keep it real. This isn't exactly health food. But it is packed with protein from the meatballs. The tomatoes provide some good vitamins.
Main thing? Enjoy it in moderation. The estimated values are about 550-650 calories, 35-40g protein, 25-30g fat, 50-60g carbohydrates and 4-6g fiber per serving.
Perfect for Casserole Dinners Main Dishes . You can make it healthier by reducing the amount of cheese, using leaner meat, and wholewheat pasta.
And there's definitely nothing wrong with some Mozzarella meatball casserole .
Honestly, this meatball pasta bake is one of my go-to's when I need something satisfying and easy. So get in the kitchen and create something wonderful! You've got this!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make meatball casserole ahead of time? Like, say, on a Sunday afternoon for a Wednesday night dinner?
Absolutely! Meatball casserole is a brilliant make-ahead dish, perfect for busy weeknights. Assemble the casserole, but don't bake it. Cover it tightly with foil and refrigerate for up to 2 days. When you're ready to bake, add about 10-15 minutes to the baking time to ensure it's heated through.
Consider it your own little Blue Peter 'here's one I made earlier' moment!
My meatballs always end up tough. What am I doing wrong with my meatball casserole?
Tough meatballs are a common cooking woe! The key is to avoid overmixing the meatball mixture. Overmixing develops the gluten in the breadcrumbs and the proteins in the meat, leading to a dense, tough result. Also, be gentle when forming the meatballs don't pack them too tightly.
Think of it like making a light and airy Yorkshire pudding batter; the same principles apply!
What are some fun variations I can try to spice up my meatball casserole recipe? I'm a bit bored of the same old thing!
Fancy a bit of a culinary adventure? Try adding some chopped vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms to the sauce for extra flavour and nutrients. A dash of red wine to the sauce can add richness, or a sprinkle of chili flakes can add a touch of heat.
For a vegetarian twist, substitute the meatballs with plant based alternatives, or add some sauteed eggplant for a fuller vegetable option.
How should I store leftover meatball casserole and how long will it last in the fridge?
Proper storage is key to keeping your leftover meatball casserole safe and delicious! Let the casserole cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Reheat individual portions in the microwave or bake the entire casserole in a preheated oven until heated through. It's almost as good as a cheeky Nando's the next day!
I'm trying to eat a bit healthier. Can I make this meatball casserole lighter without sacrificing all the flavour?
Absolutely! You can make several substitutions to lighten things up. Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef, and opt for whole wheat pasta. You can also reduce the amount of cheese or use part skim mozzarella. Load up on vegetables in the sauce and make sure to drain any excess fat after browning the meatballs.
It’s all about balance, like having a cup of tea with a biscuit a little of what you fancy does you good!
Can I freeze my meatball casserole? I like to batch cook on Sundays.
Freezing your meatball casserole is a great plan for easy weeknight meals. Allow the casserole to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil, or place it in a freezer safe container. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
When you are ready to reheat just bake as normal until it is piping hot.
Mums Gone Gourmet Meatball Mozzarella Casserole
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts:
| Calories | 550-650 |
|---|---|
| Fat | 25-30g |
| Fiber | 4-6g |
