Description
Craving a quick dinner idea that hits all the right comfort food notes? This Easy Cheesy Meatball & Rice Dinner Casserole delivers savory meatballs, fluffy rice, zesty tomato sauce, and melted mozzarella in every forkful. It’s a cozy, kid-friendly favorite that’s perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. Whether you’re using frozen meatballs or making them fresh, this cheesy bake comes together with simple ingredients you probably already have on hand. If you’re on the hunt for easy recipes, healthy-ish comfort food, or family-friendly dinner ideas, this one-pan wonder belongs at the top of your list.
Ingredients
2 cups cooked white rice
2 cups marinara sauce or crushed tomatoes
1 cup diced bell peppers
1/2 cup diced onion
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
20 pre-cooked meatballs (beef, turkey, or plant-based)
1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 375°F and lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
2. In a skillet, sauté diced onion and bell peppers until softened.
3. In a large bowl, combine cooked rice, marinara, sautéed veggies, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Mix well.
4. Spread rice mixture evenly in the dish. Arrange meatballs on top.
5. Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan over the meatballs and rice.
6. Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, or until bubbly and golden.
7. Remove from oven and garnish with parsley. Let rest 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
This recipe works great with leftover rice—just make sure it’s not too cold when mixing.
Feel free to add spinach, mushrooms, or frozen peas for extra nutrition.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 430
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 820mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
Keywords: dinner ideas, easy recipe, cheesy casserole, meatball bake, rice casserole