Cheesy Meatball Pasta Bake
A delightful dish featuring tender meatballs, gooey cheese, and perfectly cooked pasta enveloped in rich marinara sauce, perfect for weeknight dinners and special occasions.
Ingredients
For the Meatballs
- 1 lb ground beef Tender and juicy, it forms the backbone of your meatballs.
- 1 tsp garlic powder Adds a depth of flavor that elevates the dish.
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning An aromatic blend that brings out the essence of Italian cuisine.
- salt & pepper to taste Salt & pepper Essential seasonings for bringing all the flavors together.
For the Pasta Bake
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella Melts beautifully to create that irresistible cheesy topping.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan Adds a nutty flavor that complements the mozzarella.
- 2 cups marinara sauce Rich and tangy, it envelops the pasta and meatballs in flavors.
- 8 oz cooked penne pasta The perfect pasta shape, holding sauce and meatballs wonderfully.
- fresh parsley optional Fresh parsley A bright garnish that adds a pop of color and freshness.
Instructions
Preparation
- In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well until fully integrated.
- Using your hands, form the meat mixture into mini meatballs about 1 inch in diameter.
- In a skillet over medium heat, brown the meatballs until they are cooked through and golden on the outside.
Combining
- In another large bowl, mix the cooked penne pasta, marinara sauce, half of the shredded mozzarella, and all the grated Parmesan. Gently toss to coat.
- Carefully add the cooked meatballs into the pasta mixture and fold them in gently.
Baking
- Pour the entire mixture into a baking dish and spread it out evenly. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella on top.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake for about 20 minutes or until bubbly and golden.
Serving
- Remove from the oven, garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve hot.
Notes
For a healthier twist, consider using whole wheat pasta or adding more veggies like spinach or zucchini. Feel free to use different types of ground meat for your meatballs.