Cheesy Meatball Marinara Pasta Casserole

This Cheesy Meatball Marinara Pasta Casserole is the ultimate comfort food that brings together tender meatballs, rich marinara sauce, perfectly cooked penne pasta, and a generous blanket of gooey melted mozzarella cheese. It’s the ideal dish for family dinners, potlucks, or when you simply crave a hearty, satisfying meal that pleases everyone at the table. The combination of flavors and textures will have you coming back for seconds, and the best part? It’s incredibly easy to make with simple ingredients you probably already have in your pantry.

Why This Recipe Belongs in Your Rotation

If you’re looking for a meal that’s both comforting and crowd-pleasing, this casserole checks all the boxes. It’s a one-dish wonder that brings together the best of Italian-inspired flavors without the fuss. The meatballs are juicy and flavorful, the pasta is perfectly al dente, and the cheese pulls are nothing short of irresistible. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to feed a hungry family or entertain guests without spending hours in the kitchen. Whether you’re a busy parent, a novice cook, or simply craving a cheesy, saucy delight, this recipe deserves a permanent spot in your dinner rotation.

The Essentials

• 1 pound ground beef – Provides the hearty protein base for the meatballs.
• 1 cup breadcrumbs – Helps bind the meatballs and adds texture.
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese – Adds a savory, salty depth to the meatballs.
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley – Brings freshness and a pop of color.
• 1 egg – Acts as a binder to hold the meatballs together.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced – Infuses the meatballs with aromatic flavor.
• Salt and pepper to taste – Essential seasoning to enhance all flavors.
• 2 cups marinara sauce – The rich tomato base that ties the dish together.
• 8 ounces penne pasta – The perfect pasta shape to hold sauce and cheese.
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese – Melts beautifully for that signature cheesy topping.

Equipment Breakdown

• Large mixing bowl – For combining the meatball ingredients thoroughly.
• Skillet or frying pan – To brown the meatballs before baking.
• Large pot – For boiling the penne pasta.
• 9×13-inch baking dish – The perfect size to assemble and bake your casserole.
• Wooden spoon or spatula – For stirring and mixing.
• Measuring cups and spoons – To ensure ingredient accuracy.

Cheesy Meatball Marinara Pasta Casserole Made Stepwise

Step 1: Prepare the Meatball Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, egg, minced garlic, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Using your hands or a spoon, mix everything together until just combined — be careful not to overwork the meat to keep the meatballs tender.

Step 2: Shape and Brown the Meatballs

Form the mixture into small, bite-sized meatballs, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. Heat a skillet over medium heat and lightly oil it. Brown the meatballs on all sides until they have a nice golden crust, about 5-7 minutes. They don’t need to be fully cooked through at this stage since they’ll finish cooking in the oven.

Step 3: Cook the Pasta

While the meatballs are browning, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In your baking dish, spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom. Add the cooked penne pasta, then top evenly with the browned meatballs. Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the top, making sure everything is well coated.

Step 5: Add the Cheese and Bake

Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese generously over the entire casserole. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and starting to turn golden.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and makes it easier to scoop out portions. Serve with a fresh side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.

International Equivalents

• Italy: Traditional meatball pasta dishes like Polpette al Sugo often use similar ingredients but might be served as separate meatballs with spaghetti rather than baked in a casserole.
• United States: This dish is a spin on classic baked pasta casseroles like the Baked Ziti Recipe, featuring meatballs for extra protein and flavor.
• Middle East: While meatballs are popular, they are often paired with rice or flatbreads, such as in the recipe for Meatballs With Tomato Sauce And Rice.
• Latin America: Meatballs, or albóndigas, are commonly served in tomato sauce but are less often baked with pasta and cheese, making this casserole a unique fusion dish.

Notes from the Test Kitchen

• For extra flavor, try adding Italian seasoning or red pepper flakes to the meatball mixture.
• Use a low-moisture mozzarella for the best melting cheese topping.
• If you prefer, swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
• Make sure not to overcook the pasta during boiling since it will continue cooking in the oven.
• Feel free to add sautéed onions or bell peppers to the marinara sauce for added depth.

Shelf Life & Storage

This casserole keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days when stored in an airtight container. For longer storage, freeze the baked casserole for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through and bubbly again.

Reader Questions

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole a day in advance, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. When ready, bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if it’s cold from the fridge.

What pasta works best if I don’t have penne?

Pasta shapes like rigatoni, ziti, or shells work wonderfully as they hold the sauce well and complement the meatballs.

Can I use pre-cooked or frozen meatballs instead?

Yes, using pre-cooked or frozen meatballs can save time. Just layer them into the casserole with the sauce and pasta, then bake until heated through and cheese is melted.

How can I make this recipe spicier?

Add crushed red pepper flakes to the meatball mix or sprinkle some over the casserole before baking. You can also use a spicy marinara sauce to kick up the heat.

More Recipes You’ll Love

• Meatballs With Tomato Sauce And Rice – A comforting dish that pairs succulent meatballs with savory tomato sauce served over fluffy rice.
• Baked Ziti Recipe – A cheesy pasta bake loaded with ricotta, mozzarella, and marinara sauce for an easy weeknight dinner.
• Classic Spaghetti and Meatballs – Timeless Italian-American comfort food featuring tender meatballs atop a bed of spaghetti.
• Stuffed Peppers with Beef and Rice – Flavorful bell peppers filled with a savory beef and rice mixture, baked to perfection.

Bring It Home

This Cheesy Meatball Marinara Pasta Casserole is more than just a meal — it’s an experience that brings warmth, flavor, and joy to your dinner table. The tender meatballs, savory marinara, al dente pasta, and melty cheese all come together to create a dish that’s both familiar and exciting. Whether you’re cooking for your family or meal prepping for the week, this casserole is reliable, delicious, and sure to become a favorite. Next time you want a fuss-free but impressive dinner, reach for this recipe and enjoy every cheesy, saucy bite.

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