Spicy pork meatball casserole

Spicy Pork Meatball Casserole features tender meatballs made from ground pork, mixed with vibrant spices, sautéed vegetables, and a rich tomato sauce. This hearty dish is baked to perfection and finished with fresh spinach, offering a satisfying blend of flavors and textures.

13 Jan 2026
Cook time 45 min
Prep time 20 min

Ingredients:

18 oz ground pork
1 egg
1/2 cup bread crumbs
1 tsp paprika
1 short spray cooking spray oil
1 onion
1 red pepper
2 garlic cloves
2 red hot chili peppers
2 tsp ground cumin
1 can canned tomatoes
3 cups spinach

Spicy Pork Meatball Casserole is a flavorful and hearty dish that's perfect for those who enjoy bold and spicy flavors. Combining tender pork meatballs with vibrant vegetables and spices, this casserole makes for a satisfying meal. Whether you’re cooking for family or entertaining guests, this dish is sure to impress with its rich aromas and mouthwatering taste.

Instructions:

1. Prepare the meatballs:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground pork, egg, bread crumbs, and paprika. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated.

2. Form the meatballs:
Using your hands, shape the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter. You should get around 20-25 meatballs, depending on size.

3. Cook the meatballs:
Heat a large oven-safe skillet or casserole dish over medium-high heat and lightly spray with cooking spray oil. Add the meatballs in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan, and brown them on all sides. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Remove the meatballs from the skillet and set them aside.

4. Cook the vegetables:
In the same skillet, add the chopped onion, red pepper, garlic, and red hot chili peppers. Sauté for 4-5 minutes until the vegetables are soft and the onions are translucent.

5. Add the spices:
Stir in the ground cumin and cook for another minute until fragrant.

6. Add the canned tomatoes:
Pour in the canned tomatoes with their juices, stirring to combine, and bring the mixture to a simmer.

7. Combine meatballs and sauce:
Return the browned meatballs to the skillet, nestling them into the tomato mixture. Ensure they are evenly spaced and mostly submerged in the sauce.

8. Bake the casserole:
Transfer the skillet or casserole dish to the preheated oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through and the flavors have melded together.

9. Add the spinach:
Remove the casserole from the oven and gently stir in the fresh spinach. The residual heat will wilt the spinach within a few minutes.

10. Serve:
Let the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving, allowing the flavors to set. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.

This Spicy Pork Meatball Casserole is a delicious and warming recipe that's perfect for any dinner table. With its robust flavors and hearty ingredients, it’s bound to become a favorite in your household. Serve it with a side of crusty bread or over some steamed rice to soak up all the flavorful sauce. Enjoy your culinary creation!

Spicy pork meatball casserole FAQ:

What is the baking time for the Spicy Pork Meatball Casserole?

Bake the casserole in a preheated oven for 20-25 minutes. This should ensure the meatballs are cooked through and the flavors meld nicely.

How can I tell if the meatballs are done cooking?

The meatballs are done when they reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C). You can use a meat thermometer to check for doneness.

Can I use a different type of meat instead of ground pork?

Yes, you can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or beef for the ground pork. Keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly depending on the meat used.

How should I store leftovers of this casserole?

Allow the casserole to cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. It can also be frozen for up to 3 months.

What pan size is recommended for this casserole?

A large oven-safe skillet or a 9x13 inch casserole dish is ideal for this recipe. Ensure it is deep enough to hold the meatballs and sauce without spilling.

Cooking Tips:

- Make sure to finely chop the onion, red pepper, and garlic to ensure they cook evenly and incorporate well into the dish.

- To enhance the flavor, you can toast the ground cumin in a dry pan for a minute before adding to the mix.

- For an extra kick, you can leave the seeds in the red hot chili peppers, or remove them if you prefer a milder dish.

- Ensure your meatballs are uniformly sized to promote even cooking.

- If you have the time, let the meatball mixture sit in the fridge for 30 minutes before cooking. This helps the flavors meld together more.

Nutrition Facts

4 Servings
Calories 500kcal
Protein 40g
Carbohydrates 20g
Fiber 4.88g
Sugar 8g
Fat 30g

Spicy pork meatball casserole