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Italian cuisine is renowned for its depth of flavor, the comforting embrace of its dishes, and the joy it brings to family gatherings. It evokes images of vibrant red sauces, aromatic herbs, and hearty meals that not only satisfy hunger but also nourish the soul. Among the many delightful creations that stem from Italy’s rich culinary heritage, casseroles stand out as a particularly appealing option. They combine convenience with heartiness, making them ideal for busy weeknights or festive potlucks.

Meatball Casserole

Try the Savory Italian Meatball Casserole for a comforting meal that tantalizes the taste buds. This hearty dish features tender meatballs, rich marinara sauce, and gooey melted cheese layered with pasta, all baked to perfection. It's versatile enough to suit any dietary preference, making it ideal for family dinners or potlucks. Discover the joys of Italian cuisine with this delightful recipe, guaranteed to bring everyone to the table and create lasting memories.
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Ingredients
  

1 lb ground beef or turkey

1 cup breadcrumbs

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley

1 large egg

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

3 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)

2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded

1 cup spinach leaves (fresh or frozen, chopped)

1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for some heat)

Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

    Make the Meatballs: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef (or turkey), breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, egg, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Mix until well combined.

      Form the Meatballs: Roll the mixture into meatballs about 1 inch in diameter. You should have approximately 20 meatballs.

        Bake the Meatballs: Place the meatballs on a baking sheet and bake for 20 minutes or until they are browned and cooked through. You can also pan-fry them in a little oil over medium heat for about 8-10 minutes if preferred.

          Prepare the Casserole: In a large casserole dish, pour half of the marinara sauce on the bottom. Layer half of the baked meatballs on top of the sauce, followed by half of the chopped spinach, and then sprinkle with one cup of mozzarella cheese.

            Layer It Up: Repeat the layers with the remaining marinara sauce, meatballs, spinach, and top with the remaining mozzarella cheese. If you love a bit of spice, sprinkle the red pepper flakes on top.

              Bake the Casserole: Cover the casserole dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

                Garnish and Serve: Once finished, remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.

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