Meatballs Pasta Casserole

This Meatballs Pasta Casserole is the ultimate comfort food. It brings together tender pasta, hearty meatballs, rich marinara sauce, and gooey melted cheese, all baked into one delicious and satisfying dish. It’s perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or meal prep and is sure to become a regular in your weekly rotation.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This casserole is a complete meal in one dish, packed with flavor and textures that everyone loves. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or prepping ahead for a busy week, it delivers convenience without compromising taste. Plus, it’s easily customizable based on your preferences.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Pasta (ziti, penne, or rotini recommended)
• Marinara sauce
• Water
• Fully-cooked meatballs (thawed if frozen)
• Shredded mozzarella cheese
• Optional: grated Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs like basil or parsley

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, combine uncooked pasta, marinara sauce, water, and meatballs. Stir to evenly distribute.
3. Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 35 minutes.
4. Remove from oven, uncover, stir gently, and check the pasta for doneness. If it’s still firm, re-cover and bake for another 5-10 minutes.
5. Sprinkle mozzarella cheese on top. Return the dish to the oven uncovered and bake for another 5-10 minutes until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly.
6. Garnish with Parmesan and fresh herbs if desired. Let rest a few minutes before serving.

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves approximately 6 people.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes

Variations

• Cheesy Upgrade: Add ricotta cheese and Italian seasoning for a richer, more layered flavor.
• Spicy Version: Stir in red pepper flakes or use spicy Italian sausage meatballs.
• Vegetarian Option: Use plant-based meatballs and a vegetable-based pasta sauce.
• Creamy Twist: Replace marinara with Alfredo or a creamy tomato sauce.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta and check that your meatballs are gluten-free as well.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
To reheat, cover and microwave individual portions until hot, or warm the entire dish in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15–20 minutes. For freezing, assemble the casserole but do not bake. Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Bake from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for about 1 hour, or until heated through.

FAQs

How do I know when the pasta is fully cooked?

Check if the pasta is al dente—tender with a slight bite. If it’s still too firm, bake a little longer covered.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, assemble the dish up to 24 hours in advance and store covered in the fridge until ready to bake.

Can I use homemade meatballs?

Absolutely. Just make sure they are fully cooked before adding them to the casserole.

What type of pasta works best?

Short pasta shapes like penne, rotini, or ziti hold up well during baking and catch the sauce and cheese nicely.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, provolone, cheddar, or a mix of Italian cheeses can be used in place of or alongside mozzarella.

Is it possible to make this casserole in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can cook it on low for 4–5 hours or high for 2–3 hours, but the texture of the pasta may vary.

How do I keep the casserole from drying out?

Covering it while baking and not overcooking the pasta beforehand helps retain moisture.

Can I add vegetables to this casserole?

Yes, chopped spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers make great additions to boost nutrition and flavor.

How can I make this dish healthier?

Use whole wheat pasta, lean meatballs, reduced-fat cheese, and load up on vegetables.

Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, freeze in airtight containers for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Conclusion

Meatballs Pasta Casserole is a simple, comforting dish that’s easy to make and even easier to love. Its versatility allows for endless variations, and it stores and reheats beautifully—making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or make-ahead meals. Give it a try, and you’ll have a new family favorite on your hands.

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