Meatball Sub Casserole

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If you’re a fan of hearty, comforting meals, then get ready to fall in love with our Meatball Sub Casserole. Imagine all the delicious flavors of a classic meatball sub, transformed into a warm and satisfying casserole that’s perfect for any family dinner. This dish is not only incredibly tasty but also simple to prepare, making it a go-to recipe for busy weeknights.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Meatball Sub Casserole is a delightful twist on the traditional meatball sandwich. With its cheesy, saucy goodness and tender meatballs, it’s sure to be a hit with the whole family. The best part? It’s straightforward to make, especially if you use pre-cooked meatballs, saving you time without sacrificing flavor. Plus, the aromas filling your kitchen will have everyone eager to gather around the table.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Mixing bowls
• Cookie sheet
• 13×9 inch baking dish
• Oven
• Skillet (optional, if frying meatballs)

Ingredients

• 1/3 cup chopped green onion
• 1/4 cup seasoned bread crumbs
• 3 tablespoons grated parmesan cheese
• 1 pound of ground beef
• 1 Italian bread, cut into 1-inch slices
• 8 ounces of softened cream cheese
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/4 teaspoon pepper
• 2 cups of grated mozzarella, divided
• 1 jar of your favorite spaghetti sauce (28 ounces)
• 1 cup of water
• 2 cloves of garlic, chopped

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F.
2. In a bowl, mix the onions, breadcrumbs, and parmesan cheese. Add the beef and mix well.
3. Shape the mixture into 1-inch meatballs and place them on a cookie sheet.
4. Bake the meatballs for 15-20 minutes, or until no longer pink. Alternatively, fry them in a skillet over medium heat.
5. Reduce the oven temperature to 350 degrees F.
6. Place the bread slices in a single layer in an ungreased 13×9 inch baking dish. You may not need to use all the bread.
7. Combine the cream cheese, mayonnaise, Italian seasoning, and pepper; spread this mixture over the bread. Sprinkle with 1/2 cup of mozzarella cheese.
8. In another bowl, combine the spaghetti sauce, water, and garlic. Add the meatballs to this sauce mixture.
9. Pour the sauce and meatballs over the cheese-covered bread; sprinkle with the remaining mozzarella cheese.
10. Bake, uncovered, at 350 degrees F for 30 minutes or until bubbly and hot.

Tips for Success

• Ensure meatballs are well-cooked before adding them to the casserole to maintain texture and flavor.
• Use freshly grated mozzarella for the best melting and flavor.

Additional Tips or Variations

• For a spicier version, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.
• Experiment with different types of bread, such as ciabatta or a baguette, for varied texture and flavor.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

• Calories: Approximately 450
• Protein: 25g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fat: 25g

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use homemade meatballs? Absolutely! Just ensure they are fully cooked before using them in the casserole.

Can I freeze this casserole? Yes, it can be frozen before baking. Just cover tightly and freeze. When ready to eat, thaw and bake as directed.

Conclusion

This Meatball Sub Casserole is a deliciously comforting dish that brings all the flavors of a meatball sub into a warm, cheesy casserole. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, it’s sure to please everyone at the table. Give it a try and let us know how it turns out! We’d love to hear your thoughts and any creative variations you come up with.

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