Hearty Meatball and Stuffing Casserole
Experience the ultimate comfort food with this Hearty Meatball and Stuffing Casserole. Inspired by a classic Kraft magazine recipe, this dish combines savory meatballs—your choice of homemade or frozen—with creamy mushroom soup, vibrant peas, and fluffy stuffing for a delightful one-dish meal. Topped with a golden layer of melted cheese, it's perfect for cozy family dinners or potluck gatherings. Serve alongside a fresh dinner salad for a balanced meal that will leave everyone feeling satisfied.
N/A
Servings
350
Calories
6
Ingredients
Ingredients
Stove Top stuffing mix
1 (6 ounce) package (Prepared according to package directions)
Cream of mushroom soup
1 (10 3/4 ounce) can (Unopened)
Milk
1/4 cup (Measured)
Frozen meatballs
1 (1 lb) package (Frozen or homemade)
Frozen peas
2 cups (Frozen)
Shredded cheddar cheese or shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup (Shredded)
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2
In a medium bowl, prepare the Stove Top stuffing mix according to the package instructions for lighter preparation, then set aside.
3
In a 13x9-inch baking dish, mix the cream of mushroom soup and milk until well combined.
4
Add the frozen meatballs and frozen peas to the soup mixture, stirring gently to coat them evenly.
5
Sprinkle your choice of shredded cheese over the meatball and pea mixture.
6
Spread the prepared stuffing evenly on top of the cheese layer.
7
Bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the casserole is heated through and the top is golden brown.
8
For added flavor, consider using Italian-flavored stuffing and mozzarella cheese, along with homemade Italian-style meatballs.
Nutrition Information
13
Fat
40
Carbs
20
Protein
3
Fiber
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Hearty Meatball and Stuffing Casserole?
It is a comfort food dish that combines savory meatballs, creamy mushroom soup, peas, and fluffy stuffing into a single-dish meal topped with melted cheese.
Can I use homemade meatballs for this recipe?
Yes, you can use either store-bought frozen meatballs or your own homemade meatballs.
What type of stuffing mix is recommended?
A 6-ounce package of Stove Top stuffing mix is suggested for this recipe.
How long does the casserole need to bake?
The casserole should be baked for 20 to 25 minutes in a preheated oven.
What is the recommended oven temperature?
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) before baking the casserole.
What kind of soup is used in the base?
The recipe uses one 10 3/4 ounce can of cream of mushroom soup mixed with milk.
Can I use fresh peas instead of frozen?
While the recipe calls for frozen peas, fresh peas can also be used, though cooking times may vary slightly.
What type of cheese works best for the topping?
Shredded cheddar cheese or shredded mozzarella cheese are both excellent choices for this dish.
How many calories are in a serving?
There are approximately 350 calories per serving of this casserole.
How do I prepare the stuffing mix?
Prepare the stuffing mix according to the package instructions for a lighter preparation before layering it on the casserole.
What size baking dish is needed?
A 13x9-inch baking dish is the appropriate size for this recipe.
Is this recipe considered a one-dish meal?
Yes, because it contains protein, vegetables, and starch, it is a complete meal made in one pan.
Can I substitute the milk in the recipe?
Yes, you can use water or a dairy-free milk alternative, though dairy milk provides the creamiest result.
How much protein is in one serving?
Each serving contains approximately 20 grams of protein.
What are the carbohydrate and fiber counts?
There are 40 grams of carbohydrates and 3 grams of fiber per serving.
Is there a recommended side dish for this casserole?
Serving it with a fresh dinner salad is suggested for a well-balanced meal.
Can I make an Italian version of this dish?
Yes, use Italian-flavored stuffing, mozzarella cheese, and Italian-style meatballs for a Mediterranean twist.
How much fat is in each serving?
There are approximately 13 grams of fat per serving.
What was the inspiration for this recipe?
This recipe was inspired by a classic recipe featured in Kraft magazine.
Do I need to thaw the meatballs first?
The recipe instructions indicate you can add frozen meatballs directly to the mixture before baking.
How do I know when the casserole is done?
The casserole is ready when it is heated through and the stuffing topping has turned golden brown.
Can I use other vegetables instead of peas?
Yes, frozen corn, mixed vegetables, or chopped broccoli would also work well in this mixture.
How should I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Is this a quick dinner option?
Yes, with only 6 main ingredients and a short bake time, it is ideal for busy weeknights.
Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, you can freeze the assembled casserole or leftovers, though the texture of the stuffing is best when fresh.
How much cheese is required?
The recipe calls for 1 cup of shredded cheese.
Can I use turkey meatballs?
Absolutely, turkey or chicken meatballs can be used as a leaner alternative to beef.
Is this recipe family-friendly?
Yes, its familiar and mild flavors make it a hit with both children and adults.
What is the amount of peas needed?
The recipe requires 2 cups of frozen peas.
What makes the stuffing fluffy?
Preparing the stuffing mix separately before adding it to the top of the casserole ensures it remains light and fluffy.