This Cheesy Meatball & Rice Bake is the ultimate comfort food—a warm, hearty casserole packed with juicy meatballs, creamy rice, and gooey melted cheese. It’s an easy weeknight dinner that requires minimal prep, making it perfect for busy families. With its rich flavors and satisfying texture, it’s a dish that will have everyone coming back for seconds. The beauty of this recipe is its versatility. You can swap in different cheeses, add extra veggies, or even use turkey meatballs for a lighter twist. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just looking for a simple homemade meal, this baked casserole is guaranteed to hit the spot. Serve it with a fresh salad or garlic bread for a complete and comforting feast!
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
- 1 lb frozen meatballs
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup milk
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ cup frozen peas (optional)
- ½ cup sliced mushrooms (optional)
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together beef broth, cream of mushroom soup, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Spread the uncooked rice evenly in the baking dish. Pour the soup mixture over the rice and stir to combine.
- Arrange the frozen meatballs on top of the rice mixture.
- Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes.
- Remove the foil, stir in frozen peas and mushrooms if using, and sprinkle cheddar cheese on top.
- Return to the oven uncovered for an additional 10-15 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy!
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 55 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Kcal: 420 kcal | Servings: 6 servings
Cheesy Meatball & Rice Bake: The Ultimate Comfort Food
The Cheesy Meatball & Rice Bake is a delightful one-dish meal that combines the heartiness of juicy meatballs, the creaminess of cheesy rice, and the convenience of an oven-baked casserole. It’s a perfect dish for busy families, meal preppers, or anyone looking for a warm and satisfying dinner with minimal effort. This recipe brings together classic flavors that are well-loved across generations, making it a staple comfort food.
A Brief History of Meatball Casseroles
Casseroles have been a beloved part of home cooking for centuries. The word “casserole” comes from the French word for a large, deep pan used to cook meals in the oven. While casseroles became a staple in American households in the 1950s and 60s, their origins trace back much further. Meatballs, on the other hand, have a much older history. Cultures around the world have variations of meatballs, from Italian polpette to Swedish köttbullar. Combining meatballs with rice in a baked casserole is a modern adaptation, likely inspired by the need for easy, family-friendly dinners that require little hands-on cooking time. This Cheesy Meatball & Rice Bake brings together the best of both worlds: the rich, savory flavor of seasoned meatballs and the satisfying texture of cheesy, creamy rice—all in a single dish that’s baked to perfection.
Why This Recipe Is the Best Choice for Dinner
This recipe is perfect for anyone who wants a quick, delicious, and filling meal. Here’s why it stands out:
- Easy to Make – No complicated steps, no pre-cooking the rice, and minimal prep time! Just mix, assemble, and bake.
- Family-Friendly – Kids and adults alike will love the cheesy goodness, and it’s easy to customize based on dietary preferences.
- One-Pan Meal – Fewer dishes to clean up means more time spent enjoying your meal with loved ones.
- Comforting & Hearty – The combination of cheesy rice and meatballs creates a cozy, satisfying meal that’s perfect for colder months or when you need a comforting dinner.
- Customizable – You can use different types of cheese, swap out the protein (turkey or chicken meatballs work great too), or add veggies to make it even more nutritious.
Health Benefits of This Dish
While this dish is indulgent, it also provides essential nutrients that make it a well-rounded meal:
- Protein-Packed – The meatballs provide high-quality protein, which is essential for muscle growth and repair.
- Energy-Boosting Carbs – Rice is an excellent source of carbohydrates, giving you long-lasting energy throughout the day.
- Calcium from Cheese – The cheddar cheese in this dish is rich in calcium, which is crucial for strong bones and teeth.
- Optional Vegetables for Extra Nutrients – By adding peas, mushrooms, or even spinach, you can increase the fiber and vitamin content of the meal.
How to Make This Dish Even Better
To make this Cheesy Meatball & Rice Bake even more flavorful and exciting, try these customization ideas:
- Add More Seasonings – If you love bold flavors, consider adding paprika, crushed red pepper flakes, or fresh herbs like parsley and thyme.
- Experiment with Cheese – While cheddar is a classic choice, try mixing in mozzarella for extra stretchiness or Parmesan for a deeper, nutty flavor.
- Boost with Veggies – Toss in bell peppers, zucchini, or even chopped spinach for an added nutritional boost.
- Use Different Meatballs – You can switch up the protein by using turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meatballs for a lighter version of this dish.
Perfect Occasions for This Recipe
This Meatball & Rice Bake is ideal for many occasions, including:
- Family Dinners – A meal that both kids and adults will love.
- Meal Prepping – Make it in advance and reheat for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.
- Potlucks & Gatherings – A great dish to bring to parties or family events since it’s easy to transport and serves multiple people.
- Cold Weather Comfort Food – The cheesy, warm, and hearty nature of this dish makes it the perfect meal for chilly nights.
- Make-Ahead Freezer Meal – You can prepare the casserole, freeze it before baking, and pop it in the oven whenever you need a quick meal.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
- Yes! You can assemble the casserole, cover it, and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. If baking from the fridge, you may need to add 5-10 extra minutes to the cooking time.
Can I freeze this casserole?
- Absolutely! Assemble the dish and freeze it unbaked. When ready to eat, bake it straight from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for about 60-70 minutes.
What can I serve with this dish?
- This casserole pairs well with a fresh side salad, roasted vegetables, or garlic bread.
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 liquid.
Can I make this gluten-free?
- Yes! Use a gluten-free condensed soup and ensure your meatballs are gluten-free.
Conclusion
The Cheesy Meatball & Rice Bake is a true comfort food classic that’s easy to make, customizable, and perfect for feeding a crowd. Whether you’re looking for a simple weeknight meal, a potluck dish, or something hearty to meal prep for the week, this casserole has you covered. With minimal effort, you get a cheesy, savory, and satisfying meal that will have everyone asking for seconds. Give it a try and enjoy the perfect blend of creamy rice, flavorful meatballs, and melty cheese—all baked together to perfection!
