Introduction:
Looking for a simple, hearty meal to delight your family? This One-Pan Meatball Casserole combines tender pasta, savory marinara sauce, and gooey melted cheese with delicious meatballs.
It’s an easy, comforting recipe that’s perfect for weeknights, and it’s freezer-friendly for meal prep enthusiasts.
With minimal cleanup and maximum flavor, this dish is bound to become a favorite!
Ingredients:
16 oz. uncooked ziti or penne pasta
24 oz. marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
1 cup milk (optional: replace with water or broth)
2 cups water
½ tsp garlic powder
½ tsp onion powder
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp salt
Fully cooked, thawed meatballs (quantity based on preference)
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (or Italian blend cheese)
Optional: Parmesan cheese and fresh chopped herbs (basil, parsley, or oregano)
Instructions:
Preheat the oven: Set it to 425°F (220°C).
Mix the base: In a 9×13-inch baking dish, combine uncooked pasta, marinara sauce, milk, water, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, salt, and meatballs. Stir well.
Cover and bake: Tightly cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 40 minutes.
Check doneness: Uncover the dish and stir. Check if the pasta is al dente (firm but cooked). If it’s still hard, re-cover and bake for a few more minutes.
Add cheese: Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top. Bake uncovered for 5-10 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cool and serve: Let the casserole rest for 15 minutes before serving to allow the sauce to thicken. Garnish with Parmesan cheese or fresh herbs, if desired.
Pro Tips:
Frozen meatballs: Thaw them first to ensure even cooking.
Freezer-friendly: Assemble the dish (but don’t bake), cover tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking, or bake from frozen for 1.5 hours covered, then 20 minutes uncovered.
Slow cooker option: Skip the milk and use an extra jar of marinara sauce. Cook on high for 2-2.5 hours or low for 3.5-4 hours.
Conclusion:
This Meatball Casserole is a one-pan wonder that delivers rich flavors and a satisfying meal with minimal effort.
Whether baked fresh or prepped ahead, it’s a dish your family will request time and time again.
Pair it with a crisp salad or garlic bread, and enjoy a cozy, delicious dinner with no hassle!