Savory Meatball Cheese Bake

This meatball casserole with cheese is my favorite for busy weeknights when I want comfort food without fuss. It combines juicy, tender meatballs layered in a rich marinara and topped with melty cheese that brings everyone to the table happily.

I first made this after craving meatballs but wanted an easy, all-in-one dinner. It quickly became a staple for family meals.

Ingredients

• Ground beef and ground pork blend: for a juicy flavor Choose fresh, well-marbled meat if possible
• Mozzarella cheese: offers melt and stretch Pick full-fat for best texture
• Parmesan cheese: adds a sharp, salty note Opt for freshly grated for brightness
• Large egg: binds the meatballs together
• Almond flour: keeps it grain-free and tender
• garlic and onion powders: build seasoning depth
• Italian seasoning: brings those classic herb notes Choose fragrant, fresh blends
• Marinara sauce: ties the dish with tomato richness Look for low sugar versions to keep flavors balanced
• Cheddar cheese on top: creates that irresistible cheesy crust
• Fresh basil garnish: adds a fresh, herbaceous lift if you have some on hand

Instructions

Preheat Oven:

Set your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit or 190 degrees Celsius so it reaches the perfect temperature as you prep your meatballs

Mix Meatball Ingredients:

In a large bowl thoroughly combine ground beef, ground pork, mozzarella, Parmesan, egg, almond flour, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper Make sure everything is evenly mixed for consistent flavor and texture

Form Meatballs:

Shape the mixture into small meatballs about one inch wide Place them spaced out on a baking sheet so they cook evenly

Bake Meatballs:

Place the meatballs in the oven and bake for about 25 minutes Until browned and cooked through their juices should run clear without any pink

Warm Sauce:

While meatballs bake gently heat your marinara sauce in a skillet Use medium heat so it does not scorch Stir occasionally to keep it smooth and warm

Combine Meatballs and Sauce:

Once baked, add meatballs directly into the skillet with sauce Stir carefully to coat each meatball Without breaking them up, this step helps flavors marry

Transfer to Baking Dish:

Move the sauced meatballs into a casserole or baking dish Spread into an even layer so it bakes uniformly

Top with Cheese:

Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top The cheese will form a deliciously bubbly cover

Final Bake:

Return the dish to the oven and bake for 15 to 20 minutes Until the cheddar is melted and has patches of golden brown bubbles

Rest and Garnish:

Remove from oven and allow to rest for a few minutes This helps the cheese set slightly Sprinkle chopped basil if you have it for a fresh flavor pop

This dish feels like a hug in food form One time my family gathered after a long day and this casserole was on the table I loved watching my kids sneak extra bites under the cheese blanket

Storage tips

Store uncovered in the fridge for up to four days To reheat, cover with foil and warm in a 350-degree oven until heated through This avoids drying out the meatballs A quick microwave zap works too but tends to soften the cheese crust

Ingredient swaps

Ground turkey or chicken work for lighter meatballs Just add a little extra seasoning since these meats are milder Use regular flour or breadcrumbs if you are not avoiding gluten Shredded provolone is a tasty twist for the cheese topping Swap marinara for a spiced arrabbiata sauce if you like heat

Serving ideas

Serve this casserole over spaghetti or zucchini noodles for a classic feel Add a simple green salad with lemon vinaigrette for freshness Crusty bread to soak up sauce hits the spot especially on cooler nights

This casserole is perfect for a comforting weeknight meal and never fails to impress with its cheesy crust and tender meatballs.

Frequently Asked Recipe Questions

→ What type of cheese is used in the bake?

Mozzarella, Parmesan, and cheddar cheeses are combined to create a rich and melty texture.

→ Can I use different meats for the meatballs?

Yes, ground beef and pork can be swapped with turkey or chicken for a lighter alternative.

→ How do I prevent the meatballs from drying out?

Mixing cheeses and an egg into the meat helps keep the meatballs moist and tender during baking.

→ Is almond flour necessary in the mixture?

Almond flour acts as a binder, but you can substitute with breadcrumbs if preferred.

→ What herbs enhance the flavor best?

Italian seasoning and fresh basil add depth and freshness, complementing the cheeses and sauce.