Meatball Casserole("A Favorite From The '76 Cookbook.")
A hearty meatball casserole featuring savory meatballs topped with a flavorful vegetable and potato mixture, perfect for comforting family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix ground beef, condensed tomato soup, flour, pepper, and 1 teaspoon salt.
- Shape the mixture into balls and brown them on all sides in hot margarine.
- Place the browned meatballs in a 3-quart casserole dish.
- Mix diced onion, celery, potatoes, and remaining salt.
- Arrange the vegetable and potato mixture on top of the meatballs.
- Cover the casserole and bake in a preheated 350°F oven.
- Bake for 50 minutes or until potatoes are tender.
Tips & Substitutions
For additional flavor, consider adding minced garlic or Italian herbs to the meatball mixture. If you prefer a leaner option, ground turkey or chicken can be used instead of ground beef. You can also substitute the condensed tomato soup with homemade tomato sauce for a fresher taste. If you're short on time, use pre-made meatballs from the store, which can also be used in this recipe.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the casserole hot, garnished with fresh parsley or grated cheese for added flavor. It pairs beautifully with a side salad or steamed vegetables to balance the richness of the dish. For a comforting meal, consider serving it alongside crusty bread or garlic bread. This dish is a great option for family gatherings or potlucks, just like the Layered Deluxe Beef Casserole.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover meatball casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave for about 2-3 minutes or until heated through. For larger portions, cover and reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes, ensuring it heats evenly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Meatball Casserole("A Favorite From The '76 Cookbook.") contains roughly 911 calories, with 23g protein, 84g carbohydrates, and 54g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (69% of the Daily Value), potassium (49% of the Daily Value), and protein (46% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1354mg per serving (59% 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 freeze the meatball casserole?
Yes, this casserole freezes well! Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. To reheat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and bake at 350°F until heated through, or heat it directly from frozen, adding extra time.
What can I serve with meatball casserole?
Meatball casserole is versatile and can be served with various sides. A simple green salad, roasted vegetables, or garlic bread complement the richness of the dish. You could also serve it with mashed potatoes for a hearty meal, or pair it with a refreshing coleslaw to add some crunch and balance the flavors.
How do I know when the meatballs are cooked through?
To ensure the meatballs are fully cooked, check that they reach an internal temperature of 160°F. If you don't have a meat thermometer, cut one meatball in half; it should be no longer pink in the center and the juices should run clear. This ensures they are safe to eat and tender.
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).