Meatball Sub Casserole

Introduction

There’s something truly comforting about a hearty casserole, especially one that combines the beloved flavors of a meatball sub. This Meatball Sub Casserole has become a family favorite in my house, bringing smiles and satisfied appetites every time it’s served. The blend of creamy cheese, savory meatballs, and Italian bread creates a mouthwatering dish that is not only easy to prepare but also perfect for feeding a crowd. Whether it’s a busy weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering, this casserole never disappoints.

Ingredients

• 1 loaf Italian bread, cut into 1-inch thick slices
• 8-ounce block cream cheese, softened to room temperature
• ½ cup mayonnaise
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ¼ teaspoon pepper
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
• 1 bag frozen Italian-style meatballs, thawed
• 24-ounce jar pasta sauce
• Dried parsley, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Arrange the Bread: Place the bread slices in a single layer in an ungreased 9×13-inch baking dish. If there are any gaps, fill them in with smaller pieces of bread.
3. Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture: In a bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, Italian seasoning, and pepper. Mix until well blended. Spread this mixture evenly over the bread slices.
4. Add the Cheese: Sprinkle ½ cup of shredded mozzarella cheese over the cream cheese layer.
5. Combine Meatballs and Sauce: In a separate bowl, gently mix together the thawed meatballs and the pasta sauce.
6. Assemble the Casserole: Spoon the meatball and sauce mixture evenly over the cheese layer on the bread.
7. Top with Cheese: Sprinkle the remaining 1½ cups of shredded mozzarella cheese on top of the casserole.
8. Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 30-35 minutes. If you notice the top is getting too brown, loosely cover it with aluminum foil.
9. Cool and Serve: Once baked, allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving. Garnish with dried parsley if desired.

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 8
• Calories per serving: Approximately 480 kcal
• Total Fat: 28 g
• Saturated Fat: 12 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Cholesterol: 75 mg
• Sodium: 900 mg
• Carbohydrates: 38 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Sugar: 4 g
• Protein: 20 g

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes

How to Serve

• Slice into Portions: Cut the casserole into squares for easy serving.
• Garnish: Top with dried parsley for an extra touch of flavor and presentation.
• Pair with Sides: Serve with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
• Perfect for Leftovers: This casserole is excellent the next day; simply reheat in the oven or microwave.
• Ideal for Gatherings: Serve directly from the baking dish for a casual, family-style meal.

Additional Tips

1. Bread Choice: While Italian bread works great, you can also use French bread or any crusty bread for added texture.
2. Meatball Options: Feel free to use homemade meatballs for a personal touch. You can also try turkey or chicken meatballs for a lighter version.
3. Cheese Variations: Experiment with different cheeses like provolone or cheddar for a unique flavor.
4. Spice It Up: Add crushed red pepper flakes to the cream cheese mixture for a little heat.
5. Make Ahead: Prepare the casserole in advance and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake.

Recipe Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Substitute meatballs with sautéed mushrooms or plant-based meatballs for a vegetarian-friendly version.
• Add Veggies: Incorporate sautéed bell peppers, onions, or spinach into the meatball mixture for extra nutrition and flavor.
• Cheesy Goodness: Mix in ricotta cheese with the cream cheese for a richer, creamier texture.
• Herb Infusion: Add fresh herbs like basil or oregano for a burst of fresh flavor.
• Different Sauces: Try using pesto or Alfredo sauce for a different twist on the traditional flavor profile.

Serving Suggestions

• Accompany with Salad: A fresh Caesar salad or a simple mixed greens salad pairs wonderfully with this casserole.
• Beverage Pairing: Serve with a light white wine or sparkling water with lemon for a refreshing complement.
• Snacks on the Side: Consider serving with crispy breadsticks or garlic knots for a complete Italian-inspired meal.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing: You can freeze the uncooked casserole. Just assemble it, cover tightly with foil or plastic wrap, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking.
• Storing Leftovers: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use fresh meatballs instead of frozen?

• Yes, fresh meatballs can be used. Just make sure they are cooked through before assembling.

1. What if I don’t have Italian bread?

• Any sturdy bread will work, such as French bread or ciabatta.

1. Can I add vegetables to the casserole?

• Absolutely! Sautéed bell peppers, onions, or mushrooms can enhance the flavor.

1. Is this casserole spicy?

• It’s not inherently spicy, but you can add crushed red pepper flakes for heat.

1. How do I know when the casserole is done?

• The cheese should be bubbly and lightly golden, and the casserole should be heated through.

1. Can I make this dairy-free?

• Use dairy-free cream cheese and mayonnaise substitutes along with dairy-free cheese.

1. What type of pasta sauce is best?

• A classic marinara or any Italian-style pasta sauce works well.

1. How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

• Use gluten-free bread and check the ingredients of the sauce and meatballs.

1. Can I prepare this the night before?

• Yes, you can assemble it the night before and bake it the next day.

1. What can I use instead of cream cheese?
   • Softened ricotta or goat cheese can be good substitutes for cream cheese.

Conclusion

The Meatball Sub Casserole is a delightful blend of flavors and textures that makes for a comforting meal everyone will enjoy. Its ease of preparation, along with the ability to customize it to your family’s preferences, makes it a go-to recipe in our household. Whether you’re serving it for a casual dinner or at a special gathering, this casserole is sure to impress. Try it out, and enjoy the deliciousness!

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