Cheesy Baked Meatball Pasta Casserole

Cheesy Baked Meatball Pasta Casserole

This cheesy baked meatball pasta casserole is a comforting, family-friendly dish that combines tender pasta, juicy meatballs, rich tomato sauce, and layers of melted cheese. It’s the kind of recipe that feels warm and satisfying, perfect for busy weeknights, weekend dinners, or feeding a crowd. Every bite delivers hearty flavors, creamy texture, and that irresistible baked-cheese finish that makes casseroles so beloved.

Introduction

There’s something incredibly comforting about a bubbling pasta casserole fresh from the oven. This baked meatball pasta brings together classic Italian-inspired flavors in one easy, oven-baked dish. The pasta absorbs the savory sauce, the meatballs stay juicy, and the cheese melts into a golden, stretchy topping that pulls everything together. It’s simple to prepare, easy to customize, and always a hit with both kids and adults.

Ingredients

• 1 pound pasta (penne, rigatoni, or rotini)

• 20–24 cooked meatballs (beef, pork, or a mix)

• 3 cups marinara or tomato sauce

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• 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half

• 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

• 1 cup shredded cheddar or Italian cheese blend

• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

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• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

• Salt and black pepper, to taste

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (optional)

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta
   Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta until just al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

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2. Prepare the Sauce
   In a large bowl, mix the marinara sauce with the heavy cream. Add garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Stir until smooth and well combined.

3. Assemble the Casserole
   Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil. Add the cooked pasta to the dish, then pour the sauce over it and toss gently to coat. Arrange the meatballs evenly throughout the pasta.

4. Add the Cheese
   Sprinkle the mozzarella, cheddar (or cheese blend), and Parmesan evenly over the top. Make sure the cheese covers the entire surface for a rich, gooey finish.

5. Bake
   Cover the dish loosely with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 15–20 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted, bubbly, and lightly golden on top.

6. Rest Before Serving
   Remove from the oven and let the casserole rest for about 10 minutes. This helps the layers set and makes serving easier. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil if desired.

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Serving Suggestions

Serve this cheesy baked meatball pasta casserole with a simple green salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. It’s also perfect for leftovers, as the flavors deepen and become even more delicious the next day.

Conclusion

Cheesy Baked Meatball Pasta Casserole is a hearty, comforting dish that brings everyone to the table. With tender pasta, flavorful meatballs, rich sauce, and melted cheese, it’s a recipe that never disappoints. Whether you’re cooking for family, guests, or meal prep, this casserole delivers warmth, flavor, and pure comfort in every bite.