Introduction
This baked meatball pasta casserole is a heartwarming dish with roots in classic European and Italian-American cuisine. It blends the richness of meatballs with the creamy decadence of a velvety sauce, all brought together by hearty pasta. Perfect for gatherings, this recipe has won the hearts of families worldwide and is loved for its simplicity and versatility.
Ingredients
For the Meatballs
• 1 pound ground beef
• ½ pound ground pork
• 1 egg
• ½ cup breadcrumbs
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons chopped parsley
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
For the Pasta and Sauce
• 12 ounces egg noodles
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups beef or chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• Salt and pepper to taste
For Assembly
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 2 tablespoons chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Meatballs
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, ground pork, egg, breadcrumbs, garlic, parsley, salt, pepper, onion powder, and Parmesan cheese.
3. Mix until well incorporated and shape into 1-inch meatballs.
4. Place the meatballs on a greased baking sheet and bake for 20 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta
1. Boil egg noodles in salted water according to package instructions.
2. Drain and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Sauce
1. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
2. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to create a roux.
3. Gradually add broth, stirring constantly to prevent lumps.
4. Stir in heavy cream, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
5. Cook until the sauce thickens slightly.
Step 4: Assemble and Bake
1. In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, combine the cooked noodles and sauce. Mix well.
2. Top with baked meatballs, ensuring even spacing.
3. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the top.
4. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
5. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
Historical Context
Meatballs date back to ancient times, appearing in various forms in cultures from Italy to Sweden to the Middle East. This casserole format marries the Italian-American tradition of meatballs with the comforting, family-style appeal of baked pasta dishes. The combination of creamy sauce and cheese owes much to the development of béchamel-based recipes in French cuisine.
Benefits
• Protein-Packed: The meatballs provide high-quality protein and essential nutrients like iron and vitamin B12.
• Rich in Carbohydrates: Egg noodles fuel your body with energy.
• Comfort Food Appeal: Perfect for soothing the soul on chilly nights or after a long day.
• Family-Friendly: Loved by both kids and adults.
Formation and Cooking Tips
• For a lighter option, substitute ground turkey or chicken for the meatballs.
• Enhance the sauce with mushrooms or caramelized onions for added depth.
• Use gluten-free pasta and flour for a gluten-free version.
• Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
• Calories: 450
• Protein: 28g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fat: 22g
• Fiber: 2g
Conclusion
This baked meatball pasta casserole is a versatile dish that suits any occasion, from casual dinners to festive gatherings. Its creamy texture, hearty flavors, and cheesy topping ensure it’s a crowd-pleaser. With roots in tradition and endless customization options, it’s no surprise that this dish has a loyal following among food lovers.
Who Loves This Dish?
This dish is adored by:
1. Families: A one-dish meal that satisfies all age groups.
2. Comfort Food Enthusiasts: Its creamy, cheesy layers make it a staple in comfort food categories.
3. Home Cooks: Easy to prepare and customize.
4. Cheese Lovers: A golden, bubbly cheese layer seals the deal.
Make this recipe your own and enjoy a timeless classic that never fails to impress!