Description
This Easy Cheesy Meatball & Rice Dinner Casserole is a comforting and hearty one-dish meal perfect for busy weeknights. It layers fluffy rice, savory meatballs, marinara sauce, and melted cheeses baked to golden perfection. Simple ingredients come together effortlessly for a satisfying family-friendly dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
Meatballs
- 16–20 fully cooked meatballs (homemade or frozen)
Rice & Sauce
- 1 cup long grain white rice, uncooked
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 1/2 cups marinara sauce
Cheese & Seasoning
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Dish: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Add Rice: Pour the uncooked long grain white rice evenly into the prepared baking dish, creating a uniform layer for even cooking.
- Pour Chicken Broth: Pour 2 cups of chicken broth over the rice to evenly cover it, which will cook the rice thoroughly in the oven.
- Spread Marinara Sauce: Spoon 1 1/2 cups of marinara sauce on top of the rice and gently spread it out to create a flavorful tomato layer.
- Arrange Meatballs: Place the fully cooked meatballs evenly on top of the marinara sauce layer, distributing them for balanced bites.
- Season: Sprinkle 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper evenly over the dish to boost flavor throughout.
- Cover and Bake: Cover the baking dish tightly with foil to trap steam. Bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes to cook the rice and heat meatballs through.
- Add Cheese: Remove the foil and sprinkle 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella and 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top for a cheesy crust.
- Bake Uncovered: Return the dish to the oven and bake uncovered for 10–15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown.
- Garnish and Serve: Let the casserole cool slightly, then garnish with 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley if desired. Serve warm for a delicious, comforting meal.
Notes
- Use fully cooked meatballs, frozen or homemade, to save time and ensure meat is thoroughly prepared.
- For extra flavor, consider adding minced garlic or sautéed onions to the marinara sauce before layering.
- Substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth to make the dish pescatarian-friendly if using vegetarian meatballs.
- If you prefer a spicier dish, add crushed red pepper flakes along with the Italian seasoning.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
