Name: Easy Cheesy Meatball & Rice Dinner Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 55 min
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Ingredients: 20 fully cooked frozen meatballs; 1 cup uncooked long grain white rice; 2 cups marinara or tomato pasta sauce; 2 cups chicken broth; 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese; ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

If you’re on the hunt for a quick and comforting family meal, look no further than this Easy Cheesy Meatball & Rice Dinner Casserole. It’s not just about taste; it’s about creating joyful memories around the dinner table with minimal stress. Combining juicy meatballs with fluffy rice and a rich marinara sauce, topped off with bubbling mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, this dish promises satisfaction in every bite. It’s the type of casserole that not only fills bellies but also warms hearts, making it a go-to recipe for busy weeknights or cozy family gatherings.

This recipe stands out for its effortless preparation, requiring only a handful of ingredients and no complicated steps. Whether you’re an experienced cook or a kitchen novice, you’ll find this dish simple to whip up. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile—perfect for leftovers and easy to freeze for later use. Families everywhere will appreciate how quickly you can assemble this dish and have it ready to serve. So, gather your loved ones, and let’s dive into this delightful Easy Cheesy Meatball & Rice Dinner Casserole!

Why You’ll Love This Easy Cheesy Meatball & Rice Dinner Casserole

Quick and Easy: With minimal prep time and just one dish to clean, it’s perfect for busy evenings.
Kid-Friendly: Everyone loves cheesy meatballs and rice, making it a hit with children and adults alike.
Customizable: You can easily alter ingredients based on what you have on hand or personal preferences.
Delicious Leftovers: This casserole keeps well in the fridge, making it a great option for meal prep.
Comfort Food: It’s the epitome of comfort food, perfect for cozy nights in.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before you embark on cooking this Easy Cheesy Meatball & Rice Dinner Casserole, make sure to prepare your kitchen and gather the necessary tools. Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C); this ensures that your casserole will bake evenly. Next, spray or lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking. A trusty wooden spoon will help mix the rice and sauce securely. If you have one, a measuring cup for accurate ingredient portions will be beneficial. Having your ingredients measured and ready to go will streamline the cooking process, allowing you to simply combine everything and focus on that delicious finished product. After all, preparation is key to a successful meal!

Ingredients

20 fully cooked frozen meatballs
1 cup uncooked long grain white rice
2 cups marinara or tomato pasta sauce
2 cups chicken broth
1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Baking Dish

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While waiting for it to reach the ideal temperature, grab your 9×13-inch baking dish and lightly grease it using a cooking spray or olive oil. This step is crucial to ensure that your delicious casserole slides out effortlessly once it’s baked.

Step 2: Mix the Rice and Sauces

In the greased baking dish, mix together the uncooked rice, marinara sauce, chicken broth, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Stir well to combine all the ingredients; the rice will absorb the rich flavors of the marinara and chicken broth during baking, transforming it into a satisfying base.

Step 3: Add the Meatballs

Now, take your frozen meatballs and arrange them evenly on top of the rice mixture. Spreading them out ensures that every bite of your casserole has a delightful meatball packed into it. The frozen meatballs are convenient and don’t require any thawing before baking.

Step 4: Bake the Casserole

Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil. This will help trap steam and moisture, cooking the rice perfectly during the first baking phase. Place the covered casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 45 to 50 minutes.

Step 5: Add the Cheeses

After the initial baking time, carefully remove the foil. The casserole should be bubbling. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top. This step not only adds rich flavor but also creates an attractive golden crust once baked.

Step 6: Final Bake

Return the uncovered casserole to the oven. Bake for an additional 10 to 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Keep an eye on it so it doesn’t over-brown.

Step 7: Rest and Garnish

Once done, remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This resting time allows the rice to absorb any excess liquid, enhancing the texture and making serving easier. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and flavor before diving in!

Variations

Protein: Swap frozen meatballs for ground beef, turkey, or chicken; season as desired for added flavor.
Vegetables: Toss in some frozen peas, corn, or bell peppers for a nutrient boost and added texture.
Spices: Experiment with different spices like smoked paprika or garlic powder to enhance the flavor profile to your liking.

Cooking Notes

Ensure to use fully cooked frozen meatballs for consistent and safe baking—this way, you won’t have to worry about undercooked meat.
You can prepare this casserole a day ahead. Just cover it tightly and refrigerate until ready to bake. This method enhances the flavors!

Serving Suggestions

Serve with a side salad to add a fresh element to your meal.
Pair with garlic bread for a hearty, comforting meal that everyone will love.

Tips

If you’re short on time in the evening, prep this dish in advance and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake it.
For an extra cheesy flavor, consider mixing in some ricotta or cream cheese into the sauce mixture.

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 55 minutes
Total Time: 70 minutes

Nutritional Information

Calories: 480
Protein: 23g
Sodium: 950mg

FAQs

Can I use uncooked meatballs in this recipe?

It’s recommended to use fully cooked frozen meatballs to ensure they cook thoroughly and safely in the casserole.

Is it necessary to let the casserole rest before serving?

Yes! Allowing it to rest helps the rice absorb the liquid properly, making it easier to serve.

Can I freeze leftovers from this casserole?

Yes, you can freeze leftovers. Just make sure they are stored in an airtight container for up to 3 months!

What can I add to make this dish healthier?

Adding vegetables such as spinach, zucchini, or broccoli can enhance both the nutritional value and the flavor.

Conclusion

In summary, the Easy Cheesy Meatball & Rice Dinner Casserole is a flexible and comforting dish that fits seamlessly into any family’s dinner routine. Its simplicity and delightful flavors make it an instant favorite, while its adaptability ensures that you can modify it to fit your taste preferences or what’s available in your pantry. Don’t be surprised if this casserole becomes a regular in your meal rotation! Give it a try, and you might just find it’s the recipe your family keeps asking for again and again. If you give it a shot, share your thoughts in the comments, and let’s get cooking!