Description
A comforting Cheesy Meatball & Rice Casserole made with marinara, frozen meatballs, fluffy rice, and melted cheese—perfect for easy family dinners.
Ingredients
1 (24 ounce) jar marinara sauce
1 (14.5 ounce) can basil, garlic & oregano diced tomatoes (undrained)
¾ cup water
1 cup uncooked long grain white rice
1 (26 ounce) package frozen Italian-style meatballs
½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Stir marinara sauce, diced tomatoes, water, and rice together in a 13×9-inch baking dish.
3. Add frozen meatballs and stir to combine.
4. Cover the dish tightly with foil or a lid.
5. Bake for 60–75 minutes until rice becomes tender.
6. Remove dish during final 5 minutes and uncover.
7. Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top.
8. Return to oven uncovered for 5 minutes until cheese melts.
9. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
Notes
Use quality marinara sauce for best flavor.
Ensure the dish stays tightly covered so rice cooks properly.
Add vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for extra nutrition.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 70 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 45mg