Looking for a dinner recipe that’s both satisfying and simple? This Cheesy Meatball Casserole Bake combines tender pasta, savory meatballs, rich marinara sauce, and gooey mozzarella cheese into one irresistible dish. Perfect for weeknight dinners or potlucks, it’s an easy meal that everyone will love. The best part? Minimal prep and cleanup!
Ingredients
Casserole Base:
- 1 pound rotini or penne pasta, uncooked
- 2 (24-ounce) jars of marinara sauce (your favorite brand)
- 3 cups water
- 1 pound frozen Italian-style meatballs
- 8 ounces whole milk mozzarella cheese, shredded
Seasoning:
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
Garnish:
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the oven
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Step 2: Assemble the casserole base
- In a large baking dish, combine uncooked pasta, 1 jar of marinara sauce, water, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Stir to mix evenly.
- Spread the second jar of marinara sauce on top without mixing.
Step 3: Add the meatballs
- Place the frozen meatballs on top of the casserole, gently pressing them into the sauce but ensuring they remain above the pasta layer. Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil.
Step 4: Bake the casserole
- Bake for 40–50 minutes, or until the pasta is tender and the edges of the casserole are bubbling.
Step 5: Add cheese and finish baking
- Remove the foil and evenly sprinkle shredded mozzarella over the top of the casserole.
- Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 5–7 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted.
Step 6: Broil for a golden crust
- Switch your oven to broil and cook for 1–2 minutes, watching closely, until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
Step 7: Garnish and serve
- Remove the casserole from the oven, let it rest for 5 minutes, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve hot!
FAQs
Can I use fresh meatballs instead of frozen?
Yes! If using fresh meatballs, ensure they’re fully cooked before adding them to the casserole to maintain the correct cooking time for the pasta.
Can I substitute the pasta?
Absolutely! Any short pasta like ziti, rigatoni, or shells works well. Avoid long or thin pastas as they may not cook evenly.
What other cheeses can I use?
Feel free to mix in Parmesan, provolone, or even cheddar for added flavor.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
