Description
This Cheesy Meatball Sub Casserole transforms the classic meatball sub into a baked, bubbling casserole layered with toasted bread, creamy cheese spread, marinara sauce, and plenty of melty mozzarella. A hearty, family-friendly comfort meal.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
- 1 loaf French bread, sliced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 (28 oz) jar marinara sauce
- 1 (24 oz) bag frozen meatballs, thawed
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Arrange sliced French bread on a baking sheet. Brush with olive oil and sprinkle with garlic powder.
- Toast bread in the oven for 5–7 minutes until golden brown.
- In a medium bowl, combine cream cheese, mayonnaise, Italian seasoning, 1 cup mozzarella, and Parmesan until smooth.
- Layer the toasted bread slices in the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
- Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the bread layer.
- Arrange the thawed meatballs on top of the cheese mixture.
- Pour the marinara sauce evenly over the meatballs.
- Top with the remaining 1 cup of mozzarella cheese.
- Bake uncovered for 30–35 minutes, or until bubbly and the cheese is golden brown.
- Garnish with chopped fresh basil or parsley if desired and serve hot.
Notes
- Use freshly grated cheese for the best melt and flavor.
- To make ahead, assemble and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.
- For added flavor, sauté fresh garlic with the olive oil before brushing the bread.
- Serve with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 420 kcal
- Sugar: 7 g
- Sodium: 860 mg
- Fat: 28 g
- Saturated Fat: 13 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 24 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 20 g
- Cholesterol: 80 mg
