Simple Baked Italian Meatballs and Rice Casserole

This Italian Meatballs and Rice Casserole requires almost no effort. Shape the meatballs, briefly cook with tomatoes, onions and basil, pour over rice and cheese and bake. Finishing with a good sprinkle of cheese that melts right into the rice and the flavourful sauce.

The best part about this gluten-free Italian dinner, there is nothing to it! For big appetites, I like to add a green salad or warm gluten-free butter rolls.

What is Italian Sausage Meat?

Italian sausage meat is typically added to pasta dishes. The sausage mixture is a combination of ground pork shoulder, fennel seeds, garlic, chilli pepper, salt and pepper. The meat comes in spicy or sweet (mild) flavour and is usually gluten-free.

We all have nights when we need a family meal that takes almost no effort. This Simple Baked Italian Meatballs and Rice Casserole is precisely that.

The meatballs are made with gluten-free sausage meat, finely grated carrots and chopped mushrooms. The veggies not only add healthiness but also keep the meatballs tender without adding bread crumbs.

make the meatballs

To make the meatballs and sauce is simple. First, briefly brown the meatballs, then set them aside. Using the same skillet, saute the onions, then add the meatballs, tomatoes, seasoning and broth.

Cook the meatballs for about 5 minutes. The meatballs are already seasoned, adding extra flavour to the sauce while they are simmering.

The casserole is layered in a baking dish with rice, cheese, meatballs and the sauce. Just before the Italian Meatballs and Rice Casserole is finished baking, add a good sprinkle of cheese and bake for a few more minutes until the cheese is melted. Done!

Italian food, especially freshly made meatballs, is a big hit in our home. In this gluten-free Italian dish, the rice has a texture almost like a risotto – saucy rice. The entire casserole is made simple, yet the flavours are outstanding.

If you love Italian food, you should check out my three favourite Gluten-Free Italian Recipes.

• 30 Minute Gluten-Free Stovetop Lasagna
• Gluten-Free (Yeast-Free) Thin Crust Pizza
• Zucchini Baked Ziti (Keto, Gluten-Free, Grain-Free)

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Many thanks!

Kristina xx