Cheesy Turkey Meatball Casserole Recipe
Introduction
This Turkey Meatballs Casserole is a comforting and simple dish that combines savory meatballs, rich marinara sauce, and melted cheese over tender pasta. Perfect for a family dinner, it’s easy to prepare and always a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 8 oz pasta (such as penne or rigatoni), cooked
- 1 egg
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large bowl, combine the ground turkey, egg, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Step 2: Shape the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Step 3: Bake the meatballs for 15-20 minutes, or until they are cooked through and slightly browned.
- Step 4: In a large mixing bowl, toss the cooked pasta with 1 cup of the marinara sauce.
- Step 5: In a casserole dish, spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom. Add the pasta mixture, then arrange the baked meatballs on top.
- Step 6: Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the meatballs and pasta. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella evenly on top.
- Step 7: Bake the casserole for 20-25 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Step 8: Remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley before serving if desired.
Tips & Variations
- For extra flavor, add finely chopped onions or bell peppers to the meatball mixture.
- Use a combination of mozzarella and provolone cheese for a richer taste.
- Try whole wheat or gluten-free pasta to suit your dietary preferences.
- If you prefer a spicier dish, mix red pepper flakes into the marinara sauce before assembling.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave individual portions until hot.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I make the meatballs ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare and bake the meatballs a day in advance. Store them in the refrigerator and assemble the casserole just before baking.
Can I use ground beef instead of turkey?
Absolutely. Ground beef or a mix of beef and pork works well if you prefer a different flavor or texture.
PrintCheesy Turkey Meatball Casserole Recipe
A comforting and hearty Turkey Meatballs Casserole featuring tender ground turkey meatballs baked in rich marinara sauce with melted cheese and pasta, perfect for an easy and satisfying family dinner.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Meatballs
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Sauce and Casserole
- 3 cups marinara sauce
- 8 oz pasta (penne or rigatoni), cooked al dente
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Prepare the Meatballs: In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, minced garlic, chopped parsley, salt, and black pepper. Mix gently until just combined, being careful not to overmix to keep meatballs tender.
- Form Meatballs: Shape the mixture into 1 to 1 1/2-inch meatballs and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake Meatballs: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the meatballs for about 15-20 minutes or until cooked through and lightly browned.
- Assemble the Casserole: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta with marinara sauce. Spread a thin layer of sauce on the bottom of a casserole dish. Add half of the pasta with sauce, then layer the baked meatballs evenly over it. Sprinkle half of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses.
- Layer and Bake: Add the remaining pasta and sauce on top of the meatballs, then top with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses. Cover the casserole dish with foil.
- Bake Until Bubbly: Bake in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden.
- Serve: Let the casserole rest for about 5 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld and the dish to set.
Notes
- For a spicier kick, add red pepper flakes to the meatball mixture or marinara sauce.
- Use gluten-free pasta and breadcrumbs for a gluten-free version.
- Leftovers keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and taste great reheated.
- Fresh basil or oregano can be added on top just before serving for extra flavor.
Keywords: turkey meatballs, casserole, baked meatballs, marinara, pasta casserole, comfort food
