Cheesy Meatball Casserole

This cheesy meatball casserole is a family favorite, with basil adding flavor to the meatballs and grated onion adding moisture. Melted mozzarella cheese tames the spice, but feel free to cut back or eliminate the crushed red pepper if you prefer a milder dish.

Ingreadient

  • 16 ounces whole-wheat fusilli pasta
  • 1 (24 ounce) jar lower-sodium marinara sauce, divided
  • 1 pound 90%-lean ground beef
  • ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
  • ¼ cup grated sweet onion
  • ¼ cup chopped fresh basil, plus more for garnish
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 teaspoons italian seasoning
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper
  • 2 cups shredded low-moisture part-skim mozzarella cheese