Turkey Meatball Casserole is the perfect mix of comfort and convenience. The meatballs are light yet full of flavor, thanks to simple seasonings and just the right amount of cheese. Paired with marinara and melty mozzarella, this dish has all the coziness of a hearty casserole but feels a little lighter. It’s great for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or even a casual family gathering.

Turkey Meatball Casserole by Tessie's Table. — Photo Credit: Tessie’s Table

If you love the idea of comfort food that doesn’t leave you feeling weighed down, this casserole is for you. The turkey meatballs are a healthier alternative to beef, but they don’t skimp on taste. It’s also a versatile recipe; you can adjust the ingredients to suit your preferences, like adding veggies or switching up the cheese. Prep it ahead, bake it when you’re ready, and enjoy a no-fuss, flavorful meal that everyone will love.

Why you’ll love this Turkey Meatball Casserole

Healthier Twist:
Made with lean ground turkey, this casserole is lighter but still packed with satisfying flavor.
Family-Friendly:
Juicy meatballs, rich marinara, and gooey cheese make it a hit with adults and kids alike.
Easy to Prep:
You don’t need fancy ingredients or hours in the kitchen—just mix, layer, and bake.

Large casserole dish with a wooden spoon taking a meatball out of the turkey meatball casserole.

Comfort Food Without the Guilt

I love this recipe because it feels indulgent but doesn’t leave you feeling heavy afterward. Using turkey instead of beef makes it a little lighter, but the flavors are still rich and satisfying. Plus, casseroles are always a win. It’s easy to throw together and even better as leftovers the next day.

Ingredients Needed for Turkey Meatball Casserole

Ground turkey: Lean and packed with protein, it’s the perfect base for tender meatballs.
Italian breadcrumbs: These add just the right texture and seasoning to the meatballs.
Parmesan cheese: A little nutty and salty, this cheese enhances the flavor of the meatballs and casserole.
Egg: Helps bind everything together in the meatballs.
Garlic powder and onion powder: These pantry staples pack a punch of flavor without any chopping.
Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning the meatballs to perfection.
Marinara sauce: Use your favorite store-bought jar or my Homemade Sauce for a rich, tomatoey base.
Mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully and adds gooey goodness to every bite.
Fresh parsley: Brightens up the dish with a pop of color and freshness.

Ingredients for Turkey Meatball CasseroleIngredients for Turkey Meatball Casserole.

How to make Turkey Meatball Casserole

**For more detailed instructions, please refer to the printable recipe card below.**

Combine the meatball ingredients in a bowl and mix until just combined.

Form meatballs using a cookie scoop or tablespoon and brown them in a skillet until golden on all sides.

Marinara sauce and turkey meatballs layered in a casserole dish.

Spread a thin layer of marinara in a baking dish and arrange the meatballs on top.

Marinara sauce poured on top of the turkey meatballs in a casserole dish.

Pour the remaining marinara over the meatballs.

Grated cheese on top of the marinara sauce with the turkey meatballs in a casserole dish.

Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese evenly over the casserole.

Full cooked turkey meatball casserole with melted cheese and chopped parsley on top.

Bake until bubbly and the meatballs are cooked through.

Variations

Spicy Kick: Bring a little heat to your casserole by mixing red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños into the marinara sauce. You can even sprinkle some on top before baking if you like things extra spicy. This variation is perfect for those who love bold flavors and aren’t afraid of a little spice.
Cheesy Swap: Take the cheesiness up a notch by using a mix of mozzarella, provolone, and fontina cheese. This trio adds layers of flavor, from creamy and mild to sharp and buttery. It’s a game-changer for cheese lovers who want every bite to be ooey-gooey perfection.
Veggie Boost: Layer fresh spinach or sautéed zucchini slices between the meatballs for added color and nutrition. Not only does this sneak in some veggies, but it also makes the casserole look beautiful when you serve it. If you’ve got picky eaters, the veggies blend so well with the marinara they might not even notice!
Herby Twist: Fresh basil can completely transform this dish. Stir chopped basil into the marinara or sprinkle it on top before serving for a burst of herby freshness. If you want an even more intense flavor, try adding fresh oregano or thyme into the meatball mixture.
Creamy Addition: For an ultra-decadent casserole, mix ricotta or mascarpone into the marinara sauce. This creates a velvety base that coats the meatballs and cheese beautifully. It’s perfect for when you want to impress guests or elevate a casual dinner.

Serving Suggestions

Over Pasta: Classic spaghetti or fettuccine makes the perfect base for soaking up all that marinara goodness. Toss the pasta with a little olive oil and Parmesan before serving to keep it from clumping and add a touch of extra flavor.
With Garlic Bread: A warm slice of buttery garlic bread or try my Garlic Knots, is a must for scooping up the saucy meatballs. Make it extra special by sprinkling some fresh parsley and Parmesan on top before toasting.
Side Salad: Balance the richness of the casserole with a crisp, refreshing salad. Try some Homemade Coleslaw on the side or a Grilled Peach Salad.
Zoodles: For a lighter, low-carb option, serve the casserole over zucchini noodles. They’re a great way to enjoy the same flavors without the heaviness of pasta.
Polenta: Creamy polenta is a cozy, hearty base that adds a slightly sweet contrast to the savory casserole. Spoon the meatballs and sauce over a mound of polenta, and you’ve got a meal that feels like a hug in a bowl.

Storage and Freezing

How should I store Turkey Meatball Casserole?

Transfer any leftovers into an airtight container and store in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy, reheat portions in the microwave or cover the casserole dish with foil and warm it in the oven at 350°F. The foil helps keep the cheese melty without drying out the meatballs..

Can I freeze Turkey Meatball Casserole?

This casserole freezes beautifully, making it a great make-ahead option. To freeze, assemble the casserole up to the point of baking but don’t bake it yet. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to bake, thaw it overnight in the fridge and follow the baking instructions.

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A fork lifting a a cheesy turkey meatball up from a plate of turkey meatball casserole.

Tips & Tricks

Don’t Overmix: When combining the meatball ingredients, gently fold everything together until just mixed. Overmixing can make the meatballs dense and tough instead of tender and juicy.
Uniform Meatballs: Use a cookie scoop to portion out your meatballs evenly. This not only ensures they cook at the same rate but also gives your casserole a professional, polished look.
Prevent Sticking: Lightly oil your hands before rolling the meatballs to prevent the mixture from sticking. It’s a small trick that makes the process so much easier!
Check Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to make sure your meatballs are fully cooked. They should reach an internal temperature of 165°F. This ensures they’re safe to eat and perfectly juicy.
Broil at the End: After baking, turn on the broiler for 1-2 minutes to give the cheese a golden, bubbly finish. Keep a close eye on it, though—it can go from golden to burnt quickly!

More Meaty Meatballs

FAQ

Can I use ground beef instead of turkey?
Absolutely! Ground beef works beautifully in this recipe and gives the casserole a richer, heartier flavor. It’s an easy swap if you prefer red meat or have it on hand.
Can I use a different sauce?
Of course! Alfredo or pesto make excellent substitutes for Marinara if you want to try something different. Just keep in mind the flavor will change depending on the sauce you choose.
How do I prevent soggy meatballs?
Browning the meatballs in a skillet before baking seals in the juices and gives them a nice texture. It’s a step you won’t want to skip!
Can I freeze raw meatballs?
Yes! Arrange the raw meatballs on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer bag or container. Thaw before cooking to ensure even browning.
What’s the best way to reheat this?
Cover the dish with foil and reheat in the oven at 350°F until hot. The foil traps the steam, keeping the meatballs moist and the cheese gooey.
What can I use instead of breadcrumbs?
Crushed crackers, oats, or even cooked rice can be used as a substitute for breadcrumbs. Each adds a unique texture and flavor to the meatballs.
How can I make it lower in calories?
Swap in low-fat cheese and extra-lean ground turkey. You can also reduce the amount of cheese slightly without losing the dish’s deliciousness.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes! Use a large casserole dish to make a double batch. It’s perfect for feeding a crowd or freezing one casserole for later.