Description
This Meatballs Pasta Casserole is the ultimate comfort food for busy weeknights. It combines tender, seasoned beef meatballs, al dente pasta, and a rich, savory marinara sauce, all topped with a golden, bubbling layer of mozzarella cheese. By baking the pasta directly in the sauce, this one-pan marvel absorbs all the deep, aromatic flavors, delivering a restaurant-quality meal with minimal cleanup. It is a hearty, protein-packed family dinner that brings warmth to your table with every delicious bite.
Ingredients
1 lb lean ground beef
1/4 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp onion powder
1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1 lb penne or rotini pasta
24 oz marinara sauce
3 cups beef broth (halal compliant)
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, parmesan, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper, then shape into small meatballs.
In a 9×13 inch baking dish, combine the uncooked pasta, marinara sauce, and beef broth.
Nestle the raw meatballs gently into the pasta mixture.
Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
Remove the foil, sprinkle the mozzarella cheese over the top, and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is bubbling and golden.
Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before garnishing with fresh parsley and serving.
Notes
Ensure the pasta is fully submerged in the liquids to guarantee even cooking. You can add extra vegetables like diced bell peppers or spinach to boost the nutritional profile. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1.5 cups
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 55g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 75mg