- Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with olive oil or cooking spray.
- Mix Meatball Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, milk, grated Parmesan, beaten egg, minced garlic, salt, pepper, oregano, and red pepper flakes. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
- Form Meatballs: Shape the mixture into 1.5-inch meatballs. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake Meatballs: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they are browned and cooked through.
- Assemble Casserole: Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce at the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Arrange half of the cooked pasta over the sauce. Place the baked meatballs evenly over the pasta. Dot the meatballs with spoonfuls of ricotta cheese, then sprinkle half of the mozzarella cheese over the top. Pour the remaining marinara sauce evenly over the cheese. Add the remaining pasta, creating a layered effect.
- Final Touches: Top the casserole with the remaining mozzarella cheese and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese. Drizzle a little olive oil over the top for a golden finish.
- Bake the Casserole: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. For a crispy top, broil for the last 2-3 minutes.
- Garnish and Serve: Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil leaves. Serve hot and enjoy the melty, meaty goodness with your loved ones.
Tips for Making It Special:
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs, high-quality cheese, and homemade marinara sauce can elevate this dish to new heights.
- Make It Ahead: This casserole can be assembled a day ahead and baked just before serving, making it perfect for entertaining.
- Customize: Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms between layers for added nutrition and flavor.
This Fantastic Meatball Casserole is more than just a meal; it’s a reason to gather, share, and indulge in the warmth of good food and company. The combination of tender, flavorful meatballs, creamy cheeses, and hearty pasta ensures that every bite is a taste of home-cooked perfection. Enjoy the process of creating this dish as much as you will enjoy sharing it, and watch as it becomes a requested favorite at your table.