Meat Ball Casserole
A comforting meatball casserole featuring savory meatballs baked in a creamy mushroom and chili sauce, perfect for family dinners and those craving hearty, flavorful dishes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix ground beef, chopped onion, chopped green pepper, egg, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Add milk to the cream of mushroom soup and stir until smooth.
- Combine the soup mixture with the meat mixture and mix well.
- Form the meat mixture into balls, dip them in flour, and brown in a skillet.
- Place the browned meatballs in a greased casserole dish.
- Mix remaining mushroom soup with chili sauce and pour over the meatballs.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider adding minced garlic or Italian herbs to the meat mixture. If you prefer a leaner option, ground turkey or chicken can be used instead of beef. You can also use a different soup, like cream of celery, for a unique twist. If you like a bit of heat, try adding some diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the chili sauce.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the meatball casserole with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad to balance the richness of the dish. It pairs beautifully with Verna'S Summer Squash Casserole for a satisfying meal. For a heartier option, consider serving it over a bed of rice or pasta to soak up the delicious sauce.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover meatball casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or until heated through. Alternatively, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until warm. This dish also freezes well for up to 3 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Meat Ball Casserole contains roughly 688 calories, with 20g protein, 105g carbohydrates, and 22g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (102% of the Daily Value), protein (40% of the Daily Value), and calcium (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2162mg per serving (94% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make the meatballs ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the meatballs in advance and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking. This allows the flavors to meld and makes for a quicker meal on the night of serving. Just be sure to let them come to room temperature before browning.
What can I substitute for cream of mushroom soup?
If you don't have cream of mushroom soup on hand, you can use cream of chicken soup or make a homemade version using sautéed mushrooms, butter, flour, and milk. This will give you a similar creamy texture and flavor profile.
Is there a vegetarian option for this casserole?
Absolutely! You can replace the ground beef with a plant-based meat alternative or use lentils mixed with chopped vegetables for a hearty vegetarian version. Just ensure that the chili sauce and soup are also vegetarian-friendly.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).