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Old-Fashioned Meatball Casserole with Potatoes and Carrots is pure comfort food that brings back fond memories from family gatherings. This hearty dish unites flavorful meatballs with tender potatoes and vibrant carrots, all enveloped in a rich tomato sauce that’s both satisfying and fulfilling. Whether you’re coming in from a chilly day or setting the stage for a cozy family dinner, this casserole promises warmth, love, and that cherished homemade taste.

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need
How to Make Classic Meatball Casserole
Storing & Reheating
Chef’s Helpful Tips
Recipe FAQs
Classic Meatball Casserole

I still remember the first time I made Classic Meatball Casserole for my friends—it was a chilly evening, and I wanted something that would fill their bellies and warm their hearts. The aroma wafting through my kitchen drew everyone in, with the savory scent of baking meatballs mingling with fresh vegetables. It’s this familiar, inviting blend that truly makes this dish a family favorite. If you’re looking for something easy, budget-friendly, and bound to please everyone at the table, I wholeheartedly encourage you to try this recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple & Quick: This casserole is straightforward to make, with a preparation time that won’t eat into your day.
Irresistible Flavor: Picture the juicy meatballs complemented by the sweet and tangy tomato sauce, alongside tender veggies.
Eye-Catching Appeal: Who wouldn’t enjoy a warm, bubbling casserole fresh from the oven? It’s bound to impress.
Flexible Serving: Perfect as a hearty weekday dinner or a comforting dish for a weekend gathering with friends.
Diet-Friendly Options: Easily adaptable with gluten-free bread crumbs or other ingredients to suit dietary needs.

Ingredients You’ll Need

1½ lbs lean ground beef: The hearty base for flavorful meatballs; choose leaner cuts for less grease.
1½ tsp salt: Enhances flavor in both the meatballs and the sauce.
¼ tsp black pepper: Adds a subtle kick without overpowering the dish.
1 egg: Binds the meatball mixture together for juicy meatballs.
1 tbsp dried minced onion: Infuses the meat with a savory onion flavor without the bulk of fresh onions.
½ cup breadcrumbs: These help to maintain the moisture in meatballs; panko or gluten-free options work great!
1 tbsp olive oil: For browning the meatballs and getting those lovely, golden edges.
3 tbsp all-purpose flour: Used to create a light roux for thickening the sauce.
1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes with juices: Provides a rich, tangy base for the sauce.
1 cup water: Helps to achieve the right sauce consistency.
½ tsp salt: A second touch to enhance the overall flavor.
2 tsp granulated sugar: Balances the acidity of the tomatoes, enhancing sweetness without overpowering.
1 tsp dried basil leaves: Dried herbs add a depth of flavor; Italian seasoning is a tasty substitute.
1½ lbs baby potatoes: Halved to ensure even cooking, they soak up the sauce beautifully.
1 cup carrots: Chopped into 3-inch pieces, adding natural sweetness and a crunchy texture.
1 medium yellow onion: Chopped into large chunks for hearty bites in every serving.
2 celery stalks: Chopped, they add both flavor and crunch to the mix.

How to Make Classic Meatball Casserole

Mix Meatball Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine 1½ lbs lean ground beef, 1½ tsp salt, ¼ tsp black pepper, 1 egg, 1 tbsp dried minced onion, and ½ cup breadcrumbs. Gently mix until just combined, taking care not to overwork the meat. Form the mixture into 1-inch meatballs, setting them aside on a plate.

Brown the Meatballs: Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Carefully add the meatballs to the skillet, cooking until they are browned on all sides. Once they’re golden and fragrant, remove them from the skillet and place them aside while retaining the flavorful drippings.

Make the Sauce: After removing excess grease, leave about 3 tbsp drippings in the skillet. Stir in 3 tbsp flour and cook for 1 minute; you’re aiming for a light roux. Gradually whisk in 1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes with juices, 1 cup water, ½ tsp salt, 2 tsp granulated sugar, and 1 tsp dried basil. Keep stirring until the sauce thickens slightly.

Combine Ingredients: Now it’s time to bring everything together! Add 1½ lbs halved baby potatoes, 1 cup chopped carrots, 1 medium yellow onion (that you’ve chopped), 2 chopped celery stalks, and the browned meatballs into the skillet. Gently stir everything to coat in that delicious tomato sauce.

Transfer to Casserole Dish: Pour your casserole mixture into a large casserole dish and cover it tightly with foil to keep the moisture locked in. Bake the casserole in a preheated oven at 375°F for about 1 hour. You’ll know it’s done when the vegetables are tender and the meatballs are cooked through.

Rest and Serve: After removing it from the oven, let the casserole rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This is the perfect opportunity to whip up some crusty bread or a fresh side salad to complement your meal!

Storing & Reheating

Leftovers of your Classic Meatball Casserole can be stored at room temperature for up to 2 hours before transferring to the refrigerator. In the fridge, it’ll keep well for about 3-4 days in an airtight container. For longer storage, consider freezing it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, reheat it in the oven at 350°F for about 20-30 minutes until heated through. Just note that freezing might alter the texture slightly, but a quick stir can refresh it beautifully!

Chef’s Helpful Tips

Avoid overmixing the meatball mixture; this ensures they stay tender rather than tough.
If you prefer a creamier texture, consider adding cheese or cream to the sauce.
Experiment with different vegetables; bell peppers and zucchini also work well!
To save time, prepare the meatballs and sauce a day ahead and refrigerate overnight for easier assembly.
Check for doneness by cutting into a meatball; it should not be pink in the center.

Old-fashioned Meatball Casserole with Potatoes and Carrots is not just about filling up bellies—it’s about creating memories, rekindling childhood nostalgia, and enjoying delicious meals with loved ones. With its comforting flavors and heartwarming aroma, this classic dish deserves a place at your table. Feel free to experiment with different ingredients and make it your own—whether it’s tweaking the herbs or adding your favorite veggies, the possibilities are endless.

Recipe FAQs

Can I use frozen meatballs instead?

Definitely! If you’re short on time, using frozen meatballs is a great shortcut. Just bake them according to the package instructions before adding them to the casserole for the best flavor and texture.

Can I substitute ground turkey for beef?

Yes, ground turkey is a fantastic substitution if you’re looking for a leaner option. Just remember that turkey tends to be a bit drier, so you might want to add a little extra moisture to your mix.

How do I know when the casserole is done cooking?

The casserole is ready when the vegetables are fork-tender and the meatballs are fully cooked. You can check the internal temperature of the meatballs with a meat thermometer; they should read at least 165°F.

What should I serve with this casserole?

This meatball casserole shines when paired with crusty bread to soak up the sauce or a crisp side salad for a touch of freshness. It’s versatile enough to stand on its own or complement a variety of sides.