Cheesy Meatball Sub Pasta Bake

If you love the comforting flavors of a classic meatball sub but want something a little more cozy and shareable, this Cheesy Meatball Sub Pasta Bake is your new go-to. Imagine tender, juicy meatballs bursting with Italian herbs, baked alongside perfectly cooked pasta and smothered in marinara and melty mozzarella cheese. This recipe brings all the best parts of a meatball sub into one irresistible casserole that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, it’s a crowd-pleaser that pairs the nostalgic charm of a sandwich with the satisfying heartiness of a pasta bake.

Why This Recipe Works

This Cheesy Meatball Sub Pasta Bake hits all the right notes for a comforting, flavorful meal. The ground beef meatballs are seasoned with Italian herbs and fresh parsley, providing a savory, aromatic base. Breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese help bind the meatballs, keeping them tender yet firm enough to hold their shape during baking. Tossing the meatballs with cooked pasta and marinara sauce ensures every bite is saucy and satisfying, while a generous layer of mozzarella cheese on top creates a golden, bubbly crust that’s downright addictive.

What makes this dish especially great is how it combines familiar flavors in an easy, one-dish format. You get the essence of a meatball sub, but with the ease of a baked pasta. Plus, adding turkey bacon as an optional topping introduces a smoky crunch that elevates the whole dish. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or anytime you want to impress family and friends without spending hours in the kitchen.

Ingredient Checklist

• 1 pound ground beef (preferably lean)
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (plain or Italian seasoned)
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 1 large egg
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 cups cooked pasta (penne or rigatoni works best)
• 2 cups marinara sauce (choose your favorite jarred or homemade)
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• Turkey bacon, cooked and crumbled (optional topping for added texture and flavor)
• Olive oil for greasing the baking dish

Gear Checklist

• Large mixing bowl – for combining meatball ingredients
• Baking sheet or skillet – to brown meatballs before baking
• Large pot – to cook pasta
• 9×13-inch baking dish – perfect size for the pasta bake
• Wooden spoon or spatula – for mixing pasta and sauce
• Measuring cups and spoons – for precise ingredients

Cheesy Meatball Sub Pasta Bake — Do This Next

Step 1: Make the Meatballs

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, egg, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix gently until all ingredients are evenly incorporated but do not overmix, or the meatballs will be tough.

Step 2: Shape and Brown the Meatballs

Using your hands, form the meat mixture into small meatballs, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. Heat a skillet over medium heat with a little olive oil and brown the meatballs on all sides until they develop a nice crust, about 5-7 minutes. They don’t need to be fully cooked through at this stage since they’ll finish baking in the casserole.

Step 3: Cook the Pasta

While the meatballs are browning, cook your pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain well and set aside.

Step 4: Combine the Pasta, Meatballs, and Sauce

In a large bowl or directly in your prepared baking dish, mix the cooked pasta with the marinara sauce. Gently fold in the browned meatballs so they’re evenly distributed.

Step 5: Assemble the Bake

Grease your baking dish with olive oil. Pour the pasta, meatballs, and sauce mixture into the dish. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top. For an extra layer of flavor and crunch, sprinkle the cooked, crumbled turkey bacon on top.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the casserole uncovered for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown around the edges.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Let the pasta bake cool for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the cheese to set slightly, making it easier to scoop out hearty portions. Pair it with a simple green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.

If You’re Out Of…

• Ground beef: Ground turkey or chicken make great substitutes for a lighter option.
• Parmesan cheese: Use Pecorino Romano or a mild Asiago cheese in equal amounts.
• Bread crumbs: Crushed crackers or panko breadcrumbs work well too.
• Fresh parsley: Dried parsley or fresh basil can add a different but delicious twist.
• Mozzarella cheese: Provolone or a mild white cheddar will melt nicely.
• Turkey bacon: Omit or replace with cooked diced pancetta or smoked sausage if preferred.

Frequent Missteps to Avoid

• Overmixing the meatball mixture can make the meatballs dense and tough. Mix just until combined.

• Skipping the browning step will result in less flavorful meatballs. Browning adds depth and texture.

• Overcooking the pasta before baking leads to mushy results. Cook pasta al dente to retain a pleasant bite.

• Adding too much sauce can make the bake watery. Use the recommended amount or slightly less if your marinara is very thin.

• Not greasing the baking dish can cause sticking and make serving difficult.

Keep-It-Fresh Plan

This Cheesy Meatball Sub Pasta Bake can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm the whole dish in a 350°F oven until heated through. For longer storage, freeze the baked pasta before adding the cheese topping; thaw overnight in the fridge and then add cheese and bake fresh for best results.

Ask the Chef

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the meatballs and cook the pasta a day in advance. Assemble the bake just before you plan to cook it, then refrigerate until ready. This helps save time on busy days.

What’s the best pasta shape to use?

Penne or rigatoni is ideal for this recipe because their tube shape holds onto sauce and cheese beautifully. However, other medium-sized pasta like rotini or ziti will also work well.

Can I make this vegetarian?

Yes! Substitute the ground beef with plant-based meat alternatives or cooked lentils for a delicious vegetarian version. You can also add sautéed mushrooms or eggplant for extra flavor and texture.

How do I make this dish spicier?

Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the meatball mixture or sprinkle some on top before baking. Alternatively, stirring in a spicy marinara sauce will give the entire bake a nice kick.

Next Up in Your Queue

• Mashed Potato And Meatball Casserole — Another comforting meatball dish that combines creamy mashed potatoes with savory meatballs for a hearty meal.
• Baked Ziti Recipe — A classic pasta bake featuring ziti pasta, rich tomato sauce, and plenty of melted cheese that’s perfect for family dinners.

Final Thoughts

This Cheesy Meatball Sub Pasta Bake is a deliciously simple way to enjoy all the flavors you love about a meatball sub in a warm, cheesy pasta casserole. The combination of tender meatballs, hearty pasta, and bubbly cheese is a guaranteed winner at the dinner table. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or prepping for a potluck, it’s a versatile recipe that adapts well to your favorite ingredients and preferences. Don’t forget to try adding turkey bacon for that extra smoky crunch that takes it over the top. Once you master this dish, it might just become your new comfort food staple.

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