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Meatball Casserole Recipe

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4.2 from 3 reviews

This hearty Meatball Casserole is a comforting one-dish meal combining pasta, flavorful marinara, tender meatballs, and gooey melted mozzarella cheese. Perfectly seasoned with Italian herbs and spices, it’s an easy-to-make baked casserole ideal for family dinners or casual gatherings.

Ingredients

Pasta and Meatballs

  • 1 pound dried pasta (such as 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

Cheese and Garnish

  • 2½ cups mozzarella cheese, freshly shredded
  • Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven and Prepare Dish: Set your oven to 400°F (204°C). Lightly spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
  2. Combine Ingredients: In the prepared baking dish, add the dried pasta, thawed meatballs, marinara sauce, low sodium beef broth, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, and red pepper flakes. Stir gently to combine and push the pasta down so it is mostly submerged in the sauce and liquid.
  3. Bake Covered: Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 40 minutes. After this time, check if the pasta is cooked to al dente texture. If not, continue baking for an additional 5 minutes.
  4. Add Cheese and Finish Baking: When the pasta is al dente, remove the foil and sprinkle the shredded mozzarella evenly over the top. Return the dish uncovered to the oven and bake for another 5 to 10 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  5. Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and garnish with fresh chopped parsley if desired. Serve warm, optionally paired with crusty bread for a complete meal.

Notes

  • You can use any pasta shape you prefer, but shorter pasta like penne or rotini works best to hold the sauce.
  • Thaw meatballs before assembling to ensure even heating and proper cooking.
  • For spicier casserole, increase the red pepper flakes or add your favorite chili flakes.
  • Leftovers reheat well and can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • This casserole can be prepared in advance and refrigerated before baking; just add additional baking time if baking from cold.

Find it online: https://lauracooks.com/meatball-casserole-recipe/