Description

Classic Meatball Casserole is a delightful blend of juicy meatballs, fresh vegetables, and rich tomato sauce, making it the ideal comfort dish for a quick dinner. This recipe features easy prep with tender baby potatoes and hearty carrots, ensuring a satisfying meal for the family.

Ingredients

Scale

1½ lbs lean ground beef
1½ tsp salt
¼ tsp black pepper
1 egg
1 tbsp dried minced onion
½ cup breadcrumbs – or panko crumbs or gluten-free bread crumbs
1 tbsp olive – or vegetable oil
3 tbsp all-purpose flour – or 1 ½ tbsp cornstarch for a gluten-free option
1 15 oz can diced tomatoes with juices
1 cup water
½ tsp salt
2 tsp granulated sugar
1 tsp dried basil leaves – or italian seasoning
1½ lbs baby potatoes – halved
1 cup carrots – chopped into 3-inch pieces
1 medium yellow onion – chopped into large chunks
2 celery stalks – chopped

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Instructions

In a large bowl, combine ground beef with salt, black pepper, egg, minced onion, and breadcrumbs. Mix gently and form into 1-inch meatballs.
Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat. Brown the meatballs on all sides, then set aside.
Drain excess fat from the skillet, leaving some drippings. Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute to create a roux. Gradually whisk in diced tomatoes, water, salt, sugar, and basil. Stir until sauce thickens slightly.
Add halved baby potatoes, chopped carrots, onion, celery, and browned meatballs. Stir gently to combine with the sauce.
Transfer everything to a casserole dish, cover tightly with foil, and bake at 375°F for 1 hour until vegetables are tender and meatballs are cooked through.
Let rest for 5 minutes before serving, and enjoy warm.

Notes

For a gluten-free option, use cornstarch instead of flour.
Feel free to customize the vegetables to your liking, like adding bell peppers or peas.
This casserole pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a fresh side salad.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 445
Sugar: 5g
Sodium: 920mg
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Unsaturated Fat: 11g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 46g
Fiber: 6g
Protein: 27g
Cholesterol: 110mg