If there’s one dish that brings together cozy comfort and easy weeknight magic, it’s this Meatball Casserole Recipe. Imagine tender pasta swimming in rich marinara, juicy meatballs nestled in every bite, all topped with a gooey blanket of mozzarella cheese. This casserole is pure crowd-pleaser goodness with just the right balance of Italian herbs and a subtle kick from red pepper flakes. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or craving something satisfying after a long day, this recipe is your new go-to for a hearty, fuss-free meal full of flavor.
Ingredients You’ll Need
It’s amazing how just a handful of simple ingredients can come together to create such a delicious dish. Each element plays a crucial role to build the perfect texture, flavor, and color that makes this Meatball Casserole Recipe truly outstanding.
- 1 pound dried pasta (ziti, rotini, penne): Your base that soaks up all those saucy, meaty flavors brilliantly.
- 28 ounce bag frozen meatballs (thawed): The star protein that’s juicy and packed with savory goodness.
- 24 ounce marinara sauce: Adds that vibrant, tangy tomato richness that ties everything together.
- 3 cups low sodium beef broth: Keeps the casserole moist and infuses it with savory depth.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A fragrant blend that brings authentic Italian vibes to the dish.
- ¾ teaspoon garlic powder: Adds a warm, mellow garlicky undertone without overpowering.
- ¼ teaspoon onion powder: Rounds out the flavor with subtle sweetness.
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes: Just a touch of heat to make things exciting.
- 2½ cups mozzarella cheese (freshly shredded): Melts into a golden, bubbly topping that’s cheesy perfection.
- Fresh parsley (chopped, optional): Brightens the finished dish with a fresh pop of green and a hint of herbaceous flavor.
How to Make Meatball Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit, ensuring it’s ready for baking your masterpiece. Spray a 9×13 baking dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking and make for easy cleanup later. This simple prep step sets you up for a hassle-free cooking experience.
Step 2: Combine the Core Ingredients
In your prepared baking dish, add the dried pasta, thawed meatballs, marinara sauce, beef broth, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, and red pepper flakes. Stir everything gently with a spoon to combine. Push the pasta slightly downwards so it’s mostly covered by the sauce and liquid — this ensures even cooking and pasta that’s perfectly tender.
Step 3: Bake Covered
Cover the dish tightly with foil and slide it into the oven. Bake for 40 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the pasta to soak up the sauce. After that time, carefully take it out and check if the pasta is cooked to al dente — tender but still with a slight bite. If it needs more time, pop it back in for another 5 minutes to get it just right.
Step 4: Add Cheese and Finish Baking
Once the pasta is perfectly tender, remove the foil and sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top. Return the dish to the oven uncovered for about 5 to 10 minutes, until the cheese melts into a bubbly, golden topping. This finishing touch is what makes this Meatball Casserole Recipe so irresistibly comforting.
Step 5: Serve Warm
Grab your favorite serving dishes and dish out this hearty casserole while it’s nice and warm. Adding a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley elevates the look and adds a fresh note. Pair it with crusty bread to soak up every last bit of that delicious sauce, and you’re in for a real treat.
How to Serve Meatball Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
A simple sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or a few basil leaves on top instantly brightens the dish and brings an herbaceous contrast to the rich flavors. If you love a touch of extra decadence, grating some Parmesan cheese just before serving amps up the cheesy goodness.
Side Dishes
This casserole pairs beautifully with crisp green salads or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal. A light Caesar salad or steamed broccoli dressed with lemon can cut through the richness, making the entire meal harmonious and satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
Feeling fancy? Serve this Meatball Casserole Recipe in individual ramekins or casserole crocks for a charming, personalized touch. Add a dash of chili flakes on top for guests who crave a spicy kick or drizzle some garlic-infused olive oil to elevate the texture and flavor even more.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep your leftovers in an airtight container refrigerated for up to 3-4 days. When stored properly, the casserole maintains its hearty taste and texture, making your next meal just as satisfying without any extra work.
Freezing
This Meatball Casserole Recipe freezes wonderfully. After baking, let it cool completely before wrapping tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil or placing it in a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 2 months, so you’ll always have a comforting meal ready for busy days.
Reheating
Thaw in the fridge overnight if frozen. Reheat gently in the oven at 350°F covered with foil to keep moisture in, for about 20–30 minutes or until heated through. Alternatively, microwave individual portions in short bursts, stirring occasionally to heat evenly without drying out.
FAQs
Can I use fresh meatballs instead of frozen?
Absolutely! Fresh homemade or store-bought meatballs work just as well. Just ensure they’re cooked through before adding to the casserole to keep everything safe and delicious.
What pasta works best in this Meatball Casserole Recipe?
Short, sturdy pasta shapes like ziti, rotini, or penne hold up best in the sauce and baking process, offering you a great texture and perfect sauce coverage.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Sure thing! Substitute the meatballs with vegetarian or plant-based versions to keep all the flavor and comfort but make it meat-free.
Is it possible to prepare this recipe in advance?
Yes! You can assemble the casserole the day before, keep it covered in the fridge, then bake it fresh when ready. This makes weeknight dinners a breeze.
How spicy is this recipe?
The red pepper flakes add just a gentle warmth that’s easy to adjust. Feel free to reduce or leave them out if you prefer milder flavors, or add more if you want some extra heat.
Final Thoughts
There’s something so wonderfully satisfying about this Meatball Casserole Recipe that keeps people coming back for more. It’s easy to prepare, filling, and bursting with layered flavors that feel like a warm hug on a plate. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it your own weeknight favorite—you might just find yourself making it on repeat!
Print
Meatball Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40-50 minutes
- Total Time: 50-60 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
This hearty Meatball Casserole combines dried pasta, thawed frozen meatballs, and a flavorful marinara sauce baked together into a cheesy, comforting dish. With a blend of Italian seasoning and spices, topped with melted mozzarella and fresh parsley, this bake is perfect for an easy weeknight dinner that satisfies the whole family.
Ingredients
Pasta and Meatballs
- 1 pound dried pasta (ziti, rotini, penne, or similar)
- 28 ounce bag frozen meatballs (thawed)
Sauce and Seasoning
- 24 ounce marinara sauce
- 3 cups low sodium beef broth
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ¾ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes
Topping
- 2½ cups mozzarella cheese (freshly shredded)
- Fresh parsley (chopped for garnish, optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 400°F (204°C). Lightly spray a 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Combine Ingredients: In the prepared dish, pour in the dried pasta, thawed meatballs, marinara sauce, beef broth, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, and red pepper flakes. Stir well and press the pasta down gently to ensure it is mostly submerged in the sauce and liquid.
- Bake Covered: Cover the casserole tightly with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 40 minutes. After 40 minutes, check if the pasta is cooked to al dente; if not, continue baking for an additional 5 minutes.
- Add Cheese and Finish Baking: Once the pasta is al dente, remove the foil and evenly sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the top. Return the dish to the oven uncovered and bake for 5-10 minutes more until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and let cool slightly. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired. Serve warm, optionally accompanied by crusty bread for a complete meal.
Notes
- Make sure the meatballs are fully thawed before baking to ensure even cooking.
- Use low sodium beef broth to control salt content, but adjust seasoning afterward to taste.
- If you prefer a spicier casserole, increase the red pepper flakes slightly.
- For a richer flavor, use fresh marinara sauce if possible.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
