Description
This Mozzarella Stuffed Meatball Sub Casserole is a comforting and indulgent dish that combines the essence of a classic meatball sub with a baked casserole format. Featuring cheesy meatballs and a crispy bread topping, it’s perfect for family dinners and gatherings.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 lb ground pork
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
- 8 oz mozzarella cheese, cubed
- 1 loaf crusty sub bread, cut into bite-sized pieces
- Red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) to get it ready for baking.
- Make the meatballs: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix until well incorporated, then form into meatballs, each stuffed with a cube of mozzarella cheese.
- Brown the meatballs: In a skillet over medium heat, brown the meatballs on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
- Prepare the casserole: In a baking dish, spread half of the marinara sauce. Place the browned meatballs on top, then pour the remaining sauce over them.
- Add the bread: Scatter the cut sub bread over the top of the casserole.
- Bake to perfection: Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil, sprinkle with red pepper flakes (if using), and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
- Garnish and serve: Let cool slightly, garnish with fresh basil or parsley, and serve.
Notes
- For added flavor, consider browning the meatballs in batches.
- This casserole can be assembled ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 550 kcal
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 1200mg
- Fat: 35g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 95mg