Creamy Meatball Pasta Bake

Creamy Meatball Pasta Bake

Introduction

Creamy Meatball Pasta Bake is the ultimate comfort food—a hearty, flavorful dish featuring tender, juicy meatballs nestled in a bed of pasta and coated in a rich, creamy sauce. Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or even a cozy night in, this recipe is both satisfying and indulgent. With a combination of savory meat, creamy sauce, and pasta, it’s a meal that brings everyone to the table with smiles and appetites ready.

Ingredients

For the meatballs:

• 1 lb (450g) ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)

• ½ cup breadcrumbs

• 1 large egg

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• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 1 teaspoon salt

• ½ teaspoon black pepper

• 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning

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• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

• 2 tablespoons olive oil (for browning)

For the pasta bake:

• 12 oz (340g) pasta shells or penne

• 2 tablespoons butter

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• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

• 2 cups beef broth

• 1 cup heavy cream

• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce

• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional, for flavor depth)

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• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

• Salt and pepper to taste

• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Prepare the pasta
   Cook pasta in salted boiling water until just al dente. Drain and set aside.

2. Make the meatballs
   In a large bowl, mix ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic, Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and parsley until well combined. Shape into small meatballs.

3. Cook the meatballs
   Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Brown the meatballs on all sides (they don’t have to be fully cooked through as they will finish cooking in the oven). Remove and set aside.

4. Prepare the sauce
   In the same skillet, melt butter and stir in flour to create a roux. Slowly whisk in beef broth and heavy cream. Add Worcestershire sauce and Dijon mustard (if using). Cook until the sauce thickens. Stir in mozzarella and Parmesan until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper.

5. Assemble the bake
   Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). In a greased baking dish, combine the cooked pasta with the creamy sauce. Arrange browned meatballs on top. Spoon a little extra sauce over them if desired.

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6. Bake
   Place in the oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, until the meatballs are cooked through and the top is golden and bubbly.

7. Serve
   Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.

Conclusion

Creamy Meatball Pasta Bake is a rich, filling dish that brings together the best of pasta, meatballs, and creamy sauce in one satisfying bite. It’s perfect for feeding a crowd, yet easy enough for a weeknight dinner. The leftovers are just as delicious, making it a great make-ahead meal. Whether you serve it with a side salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables, this bake is sure to be a family favorite.