Meatball Pasta Bake

A Comforting, Cheesy Delight

Looking for a hearty, comforting meal that the whole family will love? This Meatball Pasta Bake is the perfect combination of tender pasta, juicy meatballs, and a rich, cheesy sauce—all baked together into a dish that’s both delicious and easy to prepare. Whether you’re cooking for a cozy weeknight dinner or feeding a crowd, this meal is sure to be a hit.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Easy to make – Minimal prep work and a hands-off baking process make this a stress-free meal.
  • Crowd-pleaser – Who doesn’t love cheesy, saucy pasta with meatballs?
  • Customizable – Swap ingredients to suit your taste or dietary needs.
  • Perfect for leftovers – Tastes just as amazing the next day!

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Bake:

  • 1 tablespoon minced garlic or garlic paste
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
  • ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 24 ounces marinara sauce
  • 6 ounces tomato paste
  • 1 cup ricotta cheese
  • 1 cup water
  • 1¼ cup half & half
  • 1 lb uncooked pasta (penne or ziti work best)
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1 lb frozen meatballs
  • Fresh parsley for garnish

Kitchen Equipment Needed

  • 9×13-inch baking dish or large round casserole dish
  • Mixing bowl
  • Rubber spatula
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Aluminum foil
  • Oven

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat & Prepare the Sauce

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large baking dish, combine garlic, dried herbs, salt, black pepper, red pepper flakes (if using), marinara sauce, tomato paste, ricotta, water, and half & half. Stir until everything is well mixed.

2. Add the Pasta & Meatballs

Pour the uncooked pasta and frozen meatballs into the sauce mixture. Stir to ensure everything is evenly coated. Use a rubber spatula to gently press the pasta down into the sauce so it’s mostly submerged.

3. Add Cheese & Bake

Stir in 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese, then cover the dish with aluminum foil. Bake for 50 minutes.

4. Add More Cheese & Finish Baking

Remove the foil, sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of mozzarella cheese on top, and bake uncovered for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

5. Garnish & Serve

Let the pasta bake rest for about 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley and enjoy!

Recipe Variations & Substitutions

  • Meat Choices: Swap frozen meatballs for homemade ones or use plant-based meatballs for a vegetarian option.
  • Cheese Options: Add some Parmesan for extra flavor or swap ricotta with cottage cheese.
  • Pasta Choices: Use whole wheat pasta for a healthier twist.
  • Spice It Up: Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a kick.

Tips for Best Results

  • Use quality marinara sauce – A good sauce makes a difference in the final taste.
  • Press the pasta down – Ensures even cooking and prevents dry spots.
  • Don’t skip the foil step – It helps the pasta cook evenly in the sauce.
  • Rest before serving – This allows the sauce to thicken slightly and prevents burns.

Storage & Reheating

Storing Leftovers:

  • Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
  • Freeze in portion-sized containers for up to 3 months.

Reheating Instructions:

  • Microwave individual portions for 2-3 minutes.
  • Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 15 minutes until warm.

Perfect Pairings

Wine: A glass of Chianti or Cabernet Sauvignon complements the richness of this dish. Side Dishes: A crisp Caesar salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables pairs beautifully.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can I use fresh meatballs instead of frozen?

Yes! If using fresh meatballs, pre-cook them before adding to the dish to ensure they are fully cooked.

2. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! Assemble the dish, cover it with foil, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Add an extra 10 minutes to the covered baking time.

3. What if my pasta is undercooked?

If your pasta is still a bit firm, simply cover the dish again and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes.

4. Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes! Use gluten-free pasta and ensure your marinara sauce and meatballs are gluten-free.

5. Can I add vegetables?

Definitely! Spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers would be great additions.

Final Thoughts

This Meatball Pasta Bake is the ultimate comfort meal—cheesy, saucy, and packed with flavor. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or meal prepping for the week, it’s a recipe you’ll come back to again and again. If you loved this dish, be sure to share it with friends and subscribe to our blog for more delicious recipes!

Happy cooking! 🍽️

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