Delight in the ultimate comfort food with this meatball pasta bake recipe. Perfect for family dinners or meal prep, this dish combines juicy meatballs, tender pasta, and melted cheese in every bite.
Why This Recipe Works
- The combination of homemade meatballs and store-bought marinara sauce saves time without sacrificing flavor.
- Baking the pasta with the meatballs and sauce allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
- A generous topping of mozzarella cheese creates a golden, bubbly finish that’s irresistible.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg, beaten
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
- 8 oz penne pasta, cooked al dente
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
Equipment Needed
- Large mixing bowl
- Baking dish (9×13 inch)
- Large pot for boiling pasta
- Skillet
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Meatballs
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, beaten egg, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper. Mix until just combined—overmixing can make the meatballs tough. Form the mixture into 1-inch balls. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and brown the meatballs on all sides, about 5 minutes. They don’t need to be fully cooked as they’ll finish in the oven.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Drain the pasta and return it to the pot. Tip: Reserve a cup of pasta water to adjust the sauce consistency if needed.
Step 3: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Pour the marinara sauce over the cooked pasta and stir to combine. If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up. This ensures every noodle is perfectly coated.
Step 4: Assemble the Bake
Transfer the sauced pasta to the baking dish and nestle the browned meatballs into the pasta. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top. Tip: For extra flavor, sprinkle a little more Parmesan cheese on top before baking.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Preheat your oven to 375°F. Bake the pasta dish uncovered for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the meatballs are cooked through. For a golden top, broil for the last 2-3 minutes, watching closely to prevent burning.
Tips and Tricks
For those looking to elevate their meatball pasta bake, consider making your own marinara sauce from scratch for a fresher taste. Another tip is to let the bake rest for 5 minutes after removing it from the oven; this makes it easier to serve. If you’re short on time, frozen meatballs can be a quick substitute, though homemade will always taste better. For a healthier twist, try using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef.
Recipe Variations
- Spicy Version: Add red pepper flakes to the meatball mixture and use a spicy marinara sauce.
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute the meatballs with store-bought or homemade veggie balls.
- Cheese Lover’s Dream: Mix ricotta cheese into the pasta before baking for an extra creamy texture.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta and breadcrumbs to make this dish gluten-free.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! Assemble the pasta bake up to the point of baking, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to eat, bake it as directed, adding a few extra minutes if it’s cold from the fridge.
Can I freeze the meatball pasta bake?
Yes, this dish freezes well. After assembling, cover it tightly with foil and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking as directed.
What can I serve with this pasta bake?
A simple green salad or garlic bread makes a great side to this hearty dish. For a complete meal, consider adding roasted vegetables.
Summary
This meatball pasta bake is a hearty, comforting dish perfect for any night of the week. With juicy meatballs, tender pasta, and melted cheese, it’s sure to be a hit with the whole family.
