If you’re tired of the basic spaghetti and meatballs, this offers a great alternative to substitute in once and a while. It’s affordable to make, doesn’t take much time, and is devoured by even the pickiest of eaters. My son that doesn’t like anything even came back for seconds on this dish!
Check out what they are saying about this recipe over at The Pioneer Woman:
I didn’t want to wait another day before I posted this super simple, super hearty, exceedingly family friendly casserole recipe.
This recipe seems a little complicated when you first look at the ingredients list, but when you dive into it it really isn’t that hard to make. It makes nice hefty portions to serve a family of four. If you want to spread it out, I suggest adding a side of garlic bread or salad to make it a more diverse meal.
Ingredients
3/4 pounds Italian Sausage
3/4 pounds Ground Beef
1/2 cup Regular Quaker Oats
1 cup Grated Kraft Parmesan
1 whole Egg, Beaten
1/4 cup Minced Fresh Parsley
Salt And Pepper, to taste
1 whole Medium Onion, Diced
3 cloves Garlic, Minced
1 can (28 Ounce) Hunt’s Diced Tomatoes
1 can (8 Ounces) Hunt’s Tomato Paste
1 Tablespoon Domino Sugar
2 cups Hot Water
12 leaves Basil
12 ounces, weight Barilla Ziti Pasta, Cooked To Al Dente
16 ounces, weight Fresh BelGioioso Mozzarella, Cut Into Large Cubes
Instructions
In a bowl, mix together the sausage, beef, oats, 1/2 of the Parmesan, egg, half the parsley, and salt and pepper until well combined. Form into small meatballs (about 1/2 inch) and brown in batches in a skillet over medium heat. Remove the meatballs from the pan and drain.
Add the onions and garlic to the skillet and cook for 3 to 4 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add the tomatoes with juice, tomato paste, salt and pepper, sugar, and water. Stir and bring to a simmer, then add in the meatballs and continue simmering for 20 minutes. Remove the skillet from the heat and allow it to cool. Stir in the basil once cool.
In a casserole dish, add half the pasta, half the mozzarella cubes, 1/4 cup Parmesan, and half the meatball sauce. Repeat with another layer, ending with the meatball sauce. Cover with foil and either refrigerate for up to 2 days, or bake in a 350 degree oven for 20-25 minutes. Serve piping hot!
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Quick Tip: Save time by using store bought meatballs!
Thanks again to The Pioneer Woman for this hearty casserole recipe.