Name: Meatball Casserole Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: PT-492128H25M33S
Total time: PT-492128H25M33S
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 1 pound dried pasta (like ziti, rotini, penne, etc.); 28 ounce bag frozen meatballs (thawed); 24 ounce marinara sauce; 3 cups low sodium beef broth; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; ¾ teaspoon garlic powder; ¼ teaspoon onion powder; ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes; 2½ cups mozzarella cheese (freshly shredded); Fresh parsley (chopped for garnish, optional)

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe· 3.9 from 86 reviews

If you are craving a hearty, comforting meal that combines tender pasta, flavorful meatballs, and gooey melted cheese all baked into one delicious dish, this Meatball Casserole Recipe is going to become your new favorite weeknight dinner. It’s amazingly simple to prepare but packs incredible flavor thanks to the perfectly seasoned sauce and those tender meatballs nestled into every bite. Whether you want to impress guests or just enjoy a cozy family dinner, this dish delivers satisfaction with every forkful.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this Meatball Casserole Recipe plays an essential role in creating that perfect balance of taste, texture, and color. The dried pasta forms a hearty base, the meatballs add savory richness, and the marinara sauce brings tangy tomato goodness. Complemented by spices and melty mozzarella, this combination is straightforward yet full of character.

1 pound dried pasta (like ziti, rotini, penne, etc): Choose your favorite shape to hold onto the delicious sauce and meatballs.
28 ounce bag frozen meatballs (thawed): Use pre-cooked for convenience and consistent tender bites.
24 ounce marinara sauce: A tomato-based sauce that adds rich, savory flavor and moisture.
3 cups low sodium beef broth: Adds depth and enhances the meaty taste without overwhelming sodium.
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A fragrant blend of herbs that brings warmth and authenticity.
¾ teaspoon garlic powder: Provides subtle aromatic punch.
¼ teaspoon onion powder: Adds gentle sweetness and complexity.
¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes: Just enough heat to awaken your palate without overpowering the dish.
2½ cups mozzarella cheese (freshly shredded): Melts into a luscious, bubbly topping that’s pure comfort food.
Fresh parsley (chopped for garnish, optional): Adds a pop of color and a fresh, herbaceous note.

How to Make Meatball Casserole Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Dish and Ingredients

Start by preheating your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit and lightly spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking. This prep step ensures your casserole comes out perfectly without fuss.

Step 2: Combine Pasta, Meatballs, and Sauce

Into the baking dish, pour the dried noodles, thawed meatballs, marinara sauce, beef broth, and all the seasoning powders and flakes. Stir everything gently but thoroughly, making sure the pasta is mostly submerged under the sauce and liquid—that’s key for even cooking and preventing dryness.

Step 3: Bake Covered Until Pasta Is Almost Tender

Cover the dish tightly with foil to trap steam and bake for 40 minutes. This slow, moist heat allows the pasta to cook perfectly while absorbing all those robust flavors from the sauce and broth. Check the pasta at 40 minutes—if it’s not quite al dente, pop it back in for another 5 minutes.

Step 4: Add Cheese and Finish Baking

Once the pasta reaches that delightfully tender al dente texture, remove the foil and sprinkle the shredded mozzarella evenly across the top. Return the dish uncovered to the oven for 5 to 10 minutes, or until the cheese melts into a bubbling, golden topping that makes this casserole irresistible.

Step 5: Serve Warm with a Fresh Touch

Remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a burst of color and brightness. Consider pairing it with crusty bread to soak up every last bit of that flavorful sauce.

How to Serve Meatball Casserole Recipe

Garnishes

Simple garnishes like freshly chopped parsley not only enhance the appearance but add a subtle herbal freshness that balances the rich, cheesy meatball casserole. For a little extra flair, a sprinkle of grated Parmesan or a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil can elevate each serving.

Side Dishes

This Meatball Casserole Recipe shines brightly as the main event, but pairing it with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables provides textural contrast and a touch of lightness. Garlic bread or a rustic baguette is also perfect for wiping up the saucy goodness.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, try serving this casserole family-style in the baking dish so everyone can dig in together, or spoon portions into individual ramekins for an elegant touch. You can also layer in some fresh spinach or mushrooms before baking to sneak in extra veggies without losing that classic flavor everyone loves.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This Meatball Casserole Recipe keeps beautifully for 3 to 4 days, making it an excellent option for easy lunches or dinners later in the week.

Freezing

You can freeze this casserole either before or after baking. Just ensure it’s sealed well in a freezer-safe container or wrapped tightly in foil and plastic wrap. Keep frozen for up to 2 months and thaw overnight in the refrigerator for best results.

Reheating

To reheat, bake leftover portions covered with foil at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about 20 minutes, or microwave individual servings until thoroughly warmed. Add a sprinkle of extra cheese on top before reheating for a fresh, melty finish.

FAQs

Can I use fresh meatballs instead of frozen?

Absolutely! Fresh meatballs work wonderfully and can add an extra layer of flavor. Just be sure they are cooked through before adding to the casserole, or increase the baking time accordingly.

What type of pasta works best in this casserole?

Pasta shapes like ziti, rotini, or penne hold onto sauce nicely, making them ideal choices. However, feel free to use your favorite dried pasta shape as long as it cooks well in the baking time.

Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes! Simply swap the meatballs for plant-based meatballs or hearty vegetables like mushrooms or eggplant meatballs to maintain the comforting texture and flavor profile.

Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble it up to a day before and keep it covered in the refrigerator. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if you bake it straight from chilled.

What if I want it spicier?

Feel free to increase the red pepper flakes to your taste or add a dash of hot sauce for an extra kick. Just remember to adjust gradually to keep the flavors balanced.

Final Thoughts

This Meatball Casserole Recipe has everything you want in a crowd-pleasing meal: simplicity, comfort, and bold flavor wrapped into one baked dish. It’s perfect for warm family dinners, busy weeknights, or anytime you want a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Give it a try, and I promise it’ll become a beloved staple in your recipe collection!