Meatball Pasta Casserole Recipe

This Meatball Pasta Casserole is a hearty, comforting dish that combines all the flavors of your favorite Italian meal in one easy, baked casserole. With a rich layer of spaghetti sauce, tender frozen meatballs, and perfectly cooked pasta, this dish is simple to prepare and will leave your family asking for seconds. The addition of mozzarella cheese melted on top creates a golden, gooey crust that brings everything together for the ultimate cheesy experience. Perfect for a family dinner, a potluck, or meal prepping, this casserole is as versatile as it is delicious.

With minimal ingredients and only a few steps involved, this casserole is a great way to make a filling meal in a short amount of time. Whether you’re using it for a weeknight dinner or feeding a crowd, you can count on this recipe to deliver comforting, familiar flavors that everyone will love. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite seasonings or fresh herbs, and the option for parmesan garnish adds an extra level of flavor. Get ready to dive into a dish that combines savory meatballs, rich sauce, and gooey cheese all in one!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Simple and Quick: This casserole comes together easily with minimal prep time and just a few simple ingredients.
2. Cheesy and Delicious: The melted mozzarella cheese on top gives this casserole a rich, gooey texture that everyone loves.
3. Family-Friendly: With the familiar flavors of meatballs and pasta, this dish is sure to be a hit with kids and adults alike.
4. Versatile: Customize it with your favorite pasta, sauces, or herbs to make it your own.
5. Perfect for Meal Prep: This casserole keeps well in the fridge, making it ideal for leftovers or prepping ahead of time for busy days.

Ingredients

For the Casserole:

• Ziti or penne pasta
• Spaghetti sauce
• Milk
• Water
• Frozen meatballs
• Garlic powder
• Onion powder
• Dried basil
• Dried oregano
• Salt
• Shredded mozzarella cheese

Optional Garnish:

• Parmesan cheese
• Fresh herbs (such as parsley or basil)

Variations

• Different Pasta: If you don’t have ziti or penne, feel free to use rigatoni, elbow macaroni, or any pasta shape you prefer.
• Add Vegetables: Add some diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach to the casserole to boost its nutritional value.
• Spicy Version: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a bit of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
• Cheese Options: Swap out mozzarella for provolone, cheddar, or a blend of Italian cheeses for a different flavor.
• Meatball Alternatives: Use homemade meatballs or even vegetarian meatballs for a lighter or meat-free version of the dish.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Begin by cooking the ziti or penne pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Sauce Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, combine the spaghetti sauce, milk, water, garlic powder, onion powder, dried basil, dried oregano, and salt. Stir until well combined.

Step 3: Assemble the Casserole

In a large casserole dish, add the cooked pasta. Pour the sauce mixture over the pasta and stir to combine. Add the frozen meatballs and gently mix them into the pasta and sauce.

Step 4: Bake the Casserole

Top the casserole with shredded mozzarella cheese, covering it evenly. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes.

Step 5: Finish Baking

Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Remove from the oven and garnish with parmesan cheese and fresh herbs, if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Since the pasta will bake in the casserole, be sure to cook it al dente, so it doesn’t become mushy during baking.
• Use Good Quality Spaghetti Sauce: The sauce is a key component in this dish, so opt for a high-quality or homemade sauce for the best flavor.
• Frozen Meatballs are Convenient: If you prefer, you can use homemade meatballs, but frozen meatballs are a time-saving option that still works well in this casserole.
• Add More Cheese: For an extra cheesy casserole, feel free to add more mozzarella or another cheese to the top before baking.
• Let It Rest: Allow the casserole to rest for a few minutes before serving so it sets and is easier to cut into portions.

How to Serve

Serve this Meatball Pasta Casserole with a side salad, some garlic bread, or a simple green vegetable like steamed broccoli. It also pairs wonderfully with a glass of red wine, such as a Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot, for a classic Italian meal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place it in the microwave or oven until heated through.

Freezing

This casserole can be frozen before or after baking. To freeze before baking, assemble the casserole in a freezer-safe dish, cover tightly with foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. To bake from frozen, preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake for 45-50 minutes, covered with foil, until hot and bubbly.

Reheating

To reheat leftovers, you can either microwave individual portions or heat the entire casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20 minutes, covered with foil to prevent drying out.

FAQs

1. Can I use fresh meatballs instead of frozen?

Yes, you can use homemade or fresh meatballs. Just be sure to cook them through before adding them to the casserole.

2. Can I make this casserole in advance?

Absolutely! This casserole can be assembled the night before and stored in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake it.

3. Can I add vegetables to the casserole?

Yes, feel free to add vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrition.

4. Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, you can use other cheeses like provolone, cheddar, or a blend of Italian cheeses for variety.

5. How do I make the casserole spicier?

Add red pepper flakes, hot sauce, or a dash of cayenne pepper to the sauce for an extra kick.

6. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can substitute penne or ziti with any small pasta shape such as rigatoni, fusilli, or elbow macaroni.

7. How long should I bake the casserole?

Bake the casserole covered for 20-25 minutes, then uncovered for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

8. Can I freeze this casserole?

Yes, this casserole can be frozen either before or after baking. If freezing before baking, just ensure it is tightly covered.

9. Can I substitute the milk with something else?

You can substitute the milk with heavy cream or a non-dairy milk such as almond milk for a different texture or dietary preference.

10. What should I serve with the casserole?

Serve with a simple side salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Conclusion

Meatball Pasta Casserole is the ultimate comfort food that combines classic Italian flavors with the convenience of an easy-to-make, one-dish meal. Whether you’re feeding a family or preparing a dish for a gathering, this casserole is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. With tender pasta, savory meatballs, and gooey mozzarella cheese, it’s a hearty, satisfying meal that everyone will enjoy. Try it out today and enjoy a simple yet delicious meal that’s perfect for any occasion!

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