Easy Cheesy Meatball & Rice Dinner Casserole

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This Easy Cheesy Meatball & Rice Dinner Casserole is the ultimate comfort food made simple. Juicy meatballs, fluffy seasoned rice, and a golden layer of melted cheese bake together in one dish that fills the kitchen with irresistible aromas. It’s a hearty dinner idea that feels homemade but doesn’t require hours in the kitchen.

Whether you’re feeding picky kids, prepping dinner on a budget, or just craving something cheesy and satisfying, this recipe hits all the right notes. It’s the kind of meal that brings everyone to the table fast, and leaves them asking for seconds. And since it’s a one-pan bake, cleanup is almost too easy.

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What Kind of Meatballs Work Best in This Casserole?

You can use either homemade meatballs or your favorite store-bought frozen kind. If you’re using frozen, make sure they’re fully cooked before adding them to the casserole. Beef or turkey both work beautifully here. For a flavor boost, go for Italian-style meatballs, which complement the cheesy rice perfectly.

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Ingredients for the Easy Cheesy Meatball & Rice Dinner Casserole

Meatballs – The star of the dish, providing hearty, savory bites in every forkful.

Long grain white rice – Absorbs the flavors of the sauce and seasonings while baking, giving you tender, flavorful rice.

Chicken broth – Adds rich depth to the rice while keeping it moist.

Marinara sauce – Brings in that classic tomato base and binds the meatballs and rice beautifully.

Shredded mozzarella cheese – Melts over the top for that gooey, cheesy finish.

Grated Parmesan cheese – Adds a nutty, salty layer of flavor that enhances the whole dish.

Italian seasoning – Gives the casserole a herby, aromatic flavor without needing fresh herbs.

Salt and pepper – To bring all the flavors together with balance.

Fresh parsley (optional) – For garnish and a touch of color.

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How To Make the Easy Cheesy Meatball & Rice Dinner Casserole

Step 1: Preheat and Prep the Dish

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and set it aside.

Step 2: Layer the Rice and Broth

Pour the uncooked long grain rice evenly into the bottom of your prepared baking dish. Then, slowly pour in the chicken broth to cover the rice. This allows the rice to cook through as the casserole bakes.

Step 3: Add the Marinara Sauce

Spoon marinara sauce over the rice and broth layer. Spread it evenly using the back of your spoon to make sure every bite gets some saucy goodness.

Step 4: Arrange the Meatballs

Place your fully cooked meatballs on top of the sauce. You can nestle them in slightly so they sit well into the casserole.

Step 5: Season and Cover

Sprinkle Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper over the top for that herby punch. Then cover the baking dish tightly with foil to trap the steam for cooking the rice.

Step 6: Bake Until Tender

Bake the casserole in your preheated oven for 45 minutes. This allows the rice to soak in the broth and the meatballs to warm through.

Step 7: Add the Cheese

Carefully remove the foil, sprinkle shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan over the top, and return it to the oven. Bake for an additional 10–15 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and lightly golden.

Step 8: Garnish and Serve

Remove from oven and let it cool slightly. Finish with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley if you like, then scoop and serve hot.

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How to Serve and Store This Casserole

Serve this casserole hot, straight from the oven, with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal. It also pairs perfectly with garlic bread for those extra cozy nights.

Leftovers? No problem. Store any remaining casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm larger portions in the oven at 350°F until heated through. It also freezes well — just wrap tightly and label before freezing for up to 2 months.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know when the rice is fully cooked?

The rice should be tender and have absorbed most of the liquid. If it’s still too firm, cover and bake for another 5–10 minutes.

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but keep in mind that brown rice takes longer to cook and may require additional broth and time. You might want to partially cook it before adding.

What’s the best cheese to use on top?

Mozzarella is classic for its meltability, but a blend with cheddar or provolone adds more flavor depth.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely. Assemble everything (except the cheese topping), cover, and refrigerate up to 24 hours. Bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if starting from cold.

Is this casserole freezer-friendly?

Yes! Cool the casserole completely, wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and freeze. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Can I add vegetables to this recipe?

Definitely. Chopped bell peppers, spinach, or even frozen peas work well mixed in before baking for a more nutritious twist.

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Want More Casserole Ideas?

If this cheesy meatball and rice bake hit the spot, try these other comfort-filled casseroles from the blog:

• Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole for a creamy, veggie-packed option.
• Crab Casserole if you’re craving something indulgent from the sea.
• Bacon Egg and Hash Brown Casserole perfect for breakfast-for-dinner nights.
• Funeral Potatoes when you want maximum creamy, cheesy goodness.
• Chicken Alfredo Lasagna Rolls for a creamy twist on lasagna-style casseroles.

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📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time: Life with Nina Recipes on Pinterest

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you stick with classic marinara or add a spicy kick? Try it with different cheeses? I love hearing all the delicious variations—let’s keep inspiring each other in the kitchen!

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