This savory casserole is a celebration of comfort and creativity. Juicy meatballs are nestled in a vibrant mix of chopped vegetables and whisked eggs, then baked to golden perfection. The result is a cohesive, protein-packed dish that’s ideal for brunches, potlucks, or family dinners. It’s easy to prepare ahead, feeds a crowd, and can be customized with seasonal ingredients or dietary preferences. The top bakes into a beautiful golden crust, while the inside remains tender and flavorful—like a cross between a frittata and a meatball bake.
🧄 Ingredients:
For the Meatballs:
- 500g ground beef or chicken
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 egg
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp paprika
- 1 tbsp chopped parsley
For the Egg Mixture:
- 6 large eggs
- ½ cup milk or cream
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a mix)
- ½ cup chopped red bell pepper
- ½ cup chopped green onions
- ½ cup chopped spinach or coriander
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Add-ins:
- ½ tsp chili flakes (for heat)
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning or garam masala (for a twist)
- ¼ cup grated carrot or zucchini (for extra moisture and nutrition)
🔥 Instructions:
1. Prepare the Meatballs:
- In a large bowl, combine ground meat, onion, garlic, egg, breadcrumbs, salt, pepper, paprika, and parsley.
- Mix until just combined—don’t overwork the meat.
- Roll into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.
- Place them in a lightly greased baking dish in a single layer. You can pre-bake them for 10 minutes at 180°C (350°F) if you want a firmer texture, or use them raw for a juicier result.
2. Make the Egg Mixture:
- In another bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk until smooth.
- Stir in shredded cheese, chopped vegetables, and any optional seasonings.
- Taste and adjust salt and pepper.
3. Assemble the Casserole:
- Pour the egg mixture evenly over the meatballs in the baking dish.
- Gently shake the dish to help the egg settle around the meatballs.
- Sprinkle a little extra cheese or herbs on top for a golden finish.
4. Bake:
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
- Bake uncovered for 35–45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the eggs are fully set.
- A knife inserted in the center should come out clean, and the meatballs should be cooked through.
5. Cool & Serve:
- Let the casserole rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing.
- Garnish with fresh herbs, microgreens, or a drizzle of yogurt sauce for flair.
- Serve warm with toast, salad, or chutney.
💡 Tips & Variations:
- Tropical twist: Add pineapple chunks and swap cheese for coconut cream for a sweet-savory fusion.
- Sugar-free brunch: Use low-fat cheese and skip breadcrumbs for a keto-friendly version.
- Party-ready: Bake in muffin tins for individual servings—perfect for buffets or lunchboxes.
- Faithful feast: Serve with naan, raita, and a side of fruit for a wholesome, celebratory meal.
This dish is a beautiful reflection of your style, My—festive, flavorful, and full of heart. Want help turning this into a themed brunch menu or adding a tropical drink pairing? I’ve got ideas bubbling!