This Meatball Submarine Casserole is a delicious and hearty dish that brings the flavors of a classic meatball sub into a comforting, baked casserole format. Perfect for feeding a crowd or a hungry family, this casserole is layered with tender meatballs, rich marinara sauce, and gooey melted cheese, all nestled on top of crusty French bread. The combination of savory meatballs, zesty sauce, and cheesy goodness makes every bite a delight. Serve it with a fresh salad or some steamed veggies for a complete meal that everyone will love.
Ingredients:
- 1 loaf of French bread, sliced into 1-inch thick slices
- 1/4 cup butter, melted
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 package (14 ounces) frozen meatballs, thawed (or homemade meatballs)
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups shredded provolone cheese
- 1/4 cup sliced green onions (optional)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare the Bread Layer: Arrange the slices of French bread in a single layer in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Brush the melted butter over the bread slices and sprinkle with garlic powder and Italian seasoning.
- Layer the Meatballs and Sauce: Place the meatballs evenly over the bread slices. Pour the marinara sauce over the meatballs, ensuring they are fully coated.
- Add the Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella, cheddar, and Parmesan cheese evenly over the top of the meatballs and sauce. Top with shredded provolone cheese for an extra cheesy layer.
- Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden brown.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool slightly. Garnish with sliced green onions and chopped fresh basil, if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!
This casserole is a fun twist on the classic meatball sub, offering all the familiar flavors in a convenient, family-friendly format!
