Get ready for the ultimate comfort food! This baked meatball casserole is everything you love—juicy meatballs, gooey melted cheese, and hearty pasta, all baked in a rich marinara sauce. It’s easy to make, family-friendly, and guaranteed to be a hit at the dinner table!
🛒 Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) frozen or homemade meatballs
- 12 oz (340g) pasta (penne, rotini, or your favorite)
- 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt & pepper, to taste
🔥 Instructions
1️⃣ Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2️⃣ Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
3️⃣ Layer it up! Spread half the marinara sauce at the bottom of the dish. Add the pasta, then the rest of the sauce.
4️⃣ Add the meatballs on top of the pasta. Sprinkle with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt & pepper.
5️⃣ Cheese time! Top with mozzarella and cheddar for that golden, melty finish.
6️⃣ Bake for 25 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and the meatballs are heated through.
7️⃣ Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil if desired.
🔥 Pro Tips
✔️ Want extra cheesy goodness? Mix some Parmesan cheese into the pasta before baking.
✔️ Make it ahead! Assemble everything, cover, and refrigerate overnight—just bake when ready.
✔️ Gluten-free? Use gluten-free pasta and check that your meatballs are gluten-free.
🍯 Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✔️ Easy & Quick: No-fuss ingredients, just layer and bake!
✔️ Family Favorite: Perfect for weeknights and picky eaters.
✔️ Crowd-Pleaser: Ideal for potlucks, parties, or a cozy dinner.
✔️ Customizable: Swap the cheese, pasta, or sauce to make it your own!
Enjoy every cheesy, saucy bite of this hearty baked meatball casserole—a dish everyone will request again and again! 😍🔥
Let me know if you need more amazing recipes in this style! ❤️🍽️