Creating the perfect Meatball Casserole is easy if you follow these steps:

1. Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Make the Meatballs: In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef or turkey, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix until well blended.
3. Form the Meatballs: Shape the mixture into meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.
4. Brown the Meatballs: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the meatballs for 5-7 minutes until they are browned on all sides. They do not need to be fully cooked through at this stage.
5. Prepare the Casserole Dish: Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce at the bottom of a 9×13 inch casserole dish.
6. Layer the Meatballs: Place the browned meatballs evenly over the sauce in the casserole dish.
7. Add More Sauce: Pour the remaining marinara sauce evenly over the meatballs.
8. Spread the Ricotta: Dot the ricotta cheese across the top of the sauce and meatballs.
9. Top with Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese generously over the entire casserole.
10. Bake: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. Then remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
11. Cool and Garnish: Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired.

Following these steps will result in a beautifully layered Meatball Casserole that’s ready to be enjoyed by everyone!