This meatball casserole is a cozy, flavorful dish that’s perfect for family dinners or gatherings with friends. These tender meatballs are packed with savory flavors from onion, garlic, and paprika, and are smothered in a rich, creamy sauce that’s made even more delicious with a hint of mustard and turmeric. The sauce, infused with the fresh taste of dill, blankets the meatballs as they bake to golden perfection. Finished with a generous sprinkle of melted cheese, this dish is sure to become a favorite comfort food in your home.
This recipe has a story of simplicity and tradition. It brings together the nostalgic flavors of a classic meatball dinner but with an elevated twist thanks to the creamy sauce. Whether you grew up eating meatballs or are trying them in this new format for the first time, this casserole offers a delightful combination of familiarity and freshness.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Comforting & Hearty: The combination of meatballs and creamy sauce creates a comforting, filling dish perfect for any occasion.
- Rich Flavors: The use of mustard, turmeric, and fresh dill adds depth and brightness to the dish, making it more than just your average meatball recipe.
- Cheesy Perfection: The melted cheese on top adds a satisfying finish, making every bite irresistible.
- Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this casserole is easy to put together, even on a busy weeknight.
Variations
- Meat Options: While this recipe uses ground beef, you can easily substitute with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner version. For a more intense flavor, consider using lamb.
- Herbs & Spices: Experiment with different herbs like parsley, basil, or thyme. If you prefer a bit of heat, add some chili flakes or cayenne pepper to the meat mixture.
- Sauce Tweaks: Add a splash of chicken broth to the sauce for extra depth. You can also mix in some sautéed mushrooms or spinach for added texture and nutrients.
- Low-Carb Option: Serve this dish over cauliflower rice or alongside a fresh green salad to keep it low in carbs while still enjoying all the flavors.
Storage
- Refrigeration: Store any leftover meatball casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: This dish freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or wrap tightly in foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
- Reheating: For best results, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until the meatballs are heated through and the sauce is bubbly. You can also microwave individual portions, though the sauce may not be as smooth.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving, based on 6 servings)
- Calories: Approximately 320 kcal
- Protein: 18g
- Fat: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 600mg
FAQ
- Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake it. Just be sure to bake it within 24 hours for the best flavor and texture. - What side dishes go well with this meatball casserole?
This casserole pairs well with mashed potatoes, pasta, rice, or a simple green salad. Garlic bread is also a great accompaniment to soak up the creamy sauce. - Can I use a different type of cream?
Yes, you can use half-and-half or even a lower-fat cream if you prefer, though the sauce may be slightly less rich. Coconut cream is a good dairy-free alternative that still provides a creamy texture. - Is this dish suitable for freezing?
Absolutely! This casserole freezes well. Just make sure to cool it completely before freezing and wrap it properly to prevent freezer burn.
Ingredients:
For the Meatballs:
- Ground Beef: 1.5 pounds
- Onion: 1 medium-sized, finely chopped.
- Hard Cheese: 2 ounces, finely grated (Cheddar, Parmesan, or any other firm cheese that you prefer).
- Dried Garlic: 1-2 teaspoons, according to taste.
- Paprika: 1 teaspoon (adds a smoky flavor).
- Salt & Black Pepper: To taste (start with 1 teaspoon of salt and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper, adjusting as needed).
For the Creamy Sauce:
- Heavy Cream: 1/2 cup with a fat content of about 30% (This will make the sauce rich and creamy).
- Mustard: 1 tablespoon (Dijon mustard is recommended for a balanced flavor).
- Turmeric: 1 teaspoon (adds a subtle earthy flavor and vibrant color).
- Pepper: 1 teaspoon (You can use white pepper for a milder flavor or black pepper for a stronger kick).
- Salt: 1 small spoon (about 1/2 teaspoon).
- Fresh Dill: A handful, chopped finely (Dill adds a fresh, slightly tangy flavor that complements the creaminess of the sauce).
Preparation Steps:
Step 1: Prepare the Meatballs
- Mix the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground meat with the finely chopped onion, grated cheese, dried garlic, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Shape the Meatballs: Form the mixture into evenly-sized balls, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. Make sure they are compact to prevent them from falling apart during cooking.
- Arrange in Baking Dish: Place the meatballs in a greased baking dish. Ensure they are close but not touching each other.
Step 2: Prepare the Creamy Sauce
- Combine the Ingredients: In a separate bowl, mix the heavy cream, mustard, turmeric, pepper, and salt. Stir until all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Add Fresh Dill: Stir in the chopped fresh dill. The dill will add a burst of fresh flavor that cuts through the richness of the sauce.
Step 3: Assemble and Cook
- Pour the Sauce: Pour the prepared creamy sauce over the meatballs in the baking dish. Ensure each meatball is well-coated with the sauce.
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
- Bake: Place the dish in the oven and bake for approximately 40 minutes. The meatballs should turn golden brown, and the sauce will thicken and bubble.
Step 4: Final Touch
- Add Cheese: Once the meatballs are cooked, remove the dish from the oven and sprinkle the finely grated cheese over the top.
- Melt the Cheese: Return the dish to the oven for an additional 5-10 minutes, just until the cheese melts and starts to bubble slightly.
- Serve: Once done, allow the dish to cool slightly before serving. The meatballs will be tender and flavorful, bathed in a creamy, cheesy sauce that’s perfect for pairing with pasta, rice, or even a fresh salad.
Tips for Success:
- Choosing Meat: For the best flavor and texture, use a mix of beef and pork. Pork adds juiciness, while beef provides a robust flavor.
- Adding Moisture: If your meat mixture feels too dry, you can add a splash of milk or a beaten egg to keep the meatballs moist.
- Customizing the Sauce: Feel free to experiment with different herbs or spices in the sauce, such as parsley, thyme, or even a touch of cayenne pepper for some heat.
This recipe makes a hearty and comforting meal, perfect for family dinners. The combination of juicy meatballs, creamy sauce, and melted cheese ensures every bite is packed with flavor. Enjoy!
This meatball casserole is a versatile and comforting dish that’s sure to become a staple in your meal rotation. With its rich flavors and satisfying textures, it’s a meal that the whole family will love. Whether you’re serving it for a special occasion or just a cozy dinner at home, this dish is a winner.