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
Scale
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.
