Savory Meat Ball Casserole
A hearty savory casserole featuring flavorful meatballs cooked in a creamy mushroom and celery sauce, perfect for comforting family dinners and gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine ground beef, pork sausage, bread crumbs, 1/3 cup Pet evaporated milk, chopped onion, chili powder, and pepper in a bowl.
- Mix well and shape the mixture into meatballs using tablespoons.
- Brown the meatballs in a skillet until evenly cooked.
- Cover and cook the meatballs for 10 minutes.
- Place the cooked meatballs in a 2 1/2-quart casserole dish.
- Pour the cream of mushroom soup, cream of celery soup, and remaining evaporated milk over the meatballs.
- Bake or bake until heated through and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider mixing in grated cheese or herbs like parsley or basil into the meatball mixture. If you prefer a leaner option, substitute ground turkey for the beef and pork sausage. For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free bread crumbs and ensure your soups are also gluten-free. Mixing in some diced bell peppers can add an extra crunch and nutritional boost.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole pairs beautifully with a fresh side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. For a comforting touch, serve it alongside garlic bread or over a bed of rice. Consider topping each serving with grated cheese or fresh herbs for added flavor. This dish is a hearty option for family dinners and potlucks alike.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a covered dish in the oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Savory Meat Ball Casserole contains roughly 709 calories, with 25g protein, 112g carbohydrates, and 20g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (109% of the Daily Value), iron (57% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (51% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1364mg 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 this casserole?
Yes, you can freeze the casserole before baking. Assemble the dish, cover it tightly with foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
What can I use instead of evaporated milk?
If you don't have evaporated milk on hand, you can substitute it with a mixture of regular milk and heavy cream (use 1/2 cup milk mixed with 2 tablespoons of cream) or use non-dairy milk alternatives like almond milk for a lighter option. Just keep in mind that the flavor may vary slightly.
How do I know when the meatballs are fully cooked?
To ensure the meatballs are fully cooked, use a meat thermometer to check that they reach an internal temperature of 160°F. If you don't have a thermometer, you can cut one in half; the meat should be no longer pink inside and the juices should run clear.
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).