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Meatball Sub Casserole Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

3.8 from 12 reviews

  • Author: Emma
  • Total Time: 1 hour
  • Yield: 6 servings

Description

This hearty Meatball Sub Casserole is a delicious twist on the classic sandwich, combining layers of baked garlic bread, creamy Italian-seasoned cream cheese, savory meatballs, pasta sauce, and gooey melted mozzarella cheese. Perfect for a comforting family dinner, this casserole is easy to assemble and baked to perfection, offering all the flavors of a meatball sub in a convenient one-dish meal.

Ingredients

Garlic Bread

  • 1 loaf frozen garlic bread (roughly 10 to 14 ounces)

Cream Cheese Mixture

  • 8 ounces cream cheese (softened)
  • 1/2 cup Miracle Whip
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

Casserole Layers

  • 2 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (divided)
  • 23 ounces red pasta sauce (any flavor, divided)
  • 24 beef meatballs (cooked, fresh or thawed)
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh oregano (optional for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Garlic Bread: Bake the frozen garlic bread according to the package directions until golden and warmed through. Set aside to cool slightly.
  2. Preheat and Prepare Baking Dish: Adjust the oven temperature to 350°F if needed. Spray a 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking and set aside.
  3. Mix Cream Cheese Mixture: In a small bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, Miracle Whip, and Italian seasoning. Stir until just blended; it’s okay if the mixture has some small cream cheese lumps.
  4. Assemble the Casserole: Line the bottom of the prepared baking dish with a single layer of sliced, cooked garlic bread. Evenly sprinkle 1 1/4 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese over the bread. Spread the cream cheese mixture on top of the mozzarella. Pour half of the pasta sauce over the top and spread it into an even layer. Arrange half of the meatballs in a single layer over the sauce. Pour the remaining pasta sauce evenly over the meatballs, then sprinkle with the remaining 1 1/4 cups mozzarella cheese.
  5. Bake the Casserole: Place the assembled casserole uncovered in the oven and bake for 30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and the meatballs are heated through.
  6. Rest and Garnish: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes to set. Garnish with chopped fresh oregano if desired for a fresh herbal note.
  7. Serve: Cut into squares and serve warm. This dish pairs well with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Notes

  • You can use homemade or store-bought meatballs, either fresh or thawed from frozen, as long as they are fully cooked before assembly.
  • Feel free to substitute Miracle Whip with mayonnaise if preferred.
  • Any type of red pasta sauce works well; try marinara, spicy arrabbiata, or classic tomato basil for different flavor profiles.
  • For extra flavor, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the top before baking.
  • Leftovers can be refrigerated and reheated in the oven or microwave.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 45 minutes
  • Category: Casserole
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Italian-American

Find it online: https://myeasyplate.com/meatball-sub-casserole-recipe/