Go Back

Old-Fashioned Meatball Casserole with Potatoes and Carrots

A hearty and comforting casserole featuring tender meatballs, roasted potatoes, and sweet carrots enveloped in a savory tomato sauce, perfect for family gatherings.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 20 minutes
Course Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine American, Comfort Food
Servings 6 servings
Calories 400 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the Meatballs

  • 1.5 lbs lean ground beef For optimal flavor and tenderness, use 80/20 ground beef.
  • 1.5 tsp salt To season the meat.
  • 0.25 tsp black pepper For a gentle hint of spice.
  • 1 large egg Acts as a binding agent.
  • 1 Tbsp dried minced onion Adds great flavor without the hassle.
  • 0.5 cup breadcrumbs Panko adds crunch; use gluten-free if needed.
  • 1 Tbsp olive or vegetable oil For browning the meatballs.

For the Sauce

  • 3 Tbsp all-purpose flour For thickening the sauce; use cornstarch for gluten-free.
  • 1 15 oz can diced tomatoes with juices The star of your sauce!
  • 1 cup water Balances the sauce's consistency.
  • 0.5 tsp salt To season the sauce.
  • 2 tsp granulated sugar To balance the acidity of the tomatoes.
  • 1 tsp dried basil leaves Elevates the flavor.

For the Casserole

  • 1.5 lbs baby potatoes, halved Roast beautifully and absorb flavors.
  • 1 cup carrots, chopped Adds color and sweetness.
  • 1 medium yellow onion, chopped For added texture.
  • 2 stalks celery, chopped Compliments the meatballs.

Instructions
 

Prepare the Meatballs

  • In a large bowl, combine the lean ground beef, salt, black pepper, egg, dried minced onion, and breadcrumbs.
  • Mix gently to combine and form the mixture into meatballs, about 1.5 inches in size.

Brown the Meatballs

  • Heat 1 Tbsp of oil in a skillet over medium heat.
  • Add the meatballs in batches and sear until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
  • Transfer to a plate and set aside.

Make the Sauce

  • In the same skillet, drain excess fat, leaving some for flavor.
  • Sprinkle in 3 Tbsp of flour to create a roux and cook until golden.
  • Gradually whisk in the diced tomatoes, water, salt, sugar, and dried basil, stirring continuously until smooth.

Combine it All

  • Add potatoes, carrots, onion, and celery to the sauce, mixing gently.
  • Add the meatballs back to the skillet and nestle them in the sauce.

Bake

  • Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  • Transfer the mixture to a greased casserole dish, cover with foil, and bake for 1 hour.

Serve

  • Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

This casserole can be made ahead of time and stored. Quality ingredients and fresh herbs will greatly enhance the flavor.
Keyword Comfort Food, Easy Dinner, Family Meal, Hearty Casserole, Meatball Casserole