Go Back
–+ servings

Meatball Pasta Bake

Meatball Pasta Bake is a hearty and comforting dinner that combines tender pasta, juicy homemade meatballs, and a rich marinara sauce, all topped with melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Baked until golden and bubbly, this dish is a family favorite that’s perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. The combination of savory meatballs, pasta, and gooey cheese makes it an irresistible comfort food classic that reheats beautifully for leftovers.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 25 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 6
Ingredients Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
 
 

  • 12 oz penne or rigatoni pasta
  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 garlic cloves minced
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 24 oz marinara sauce
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese for topping
  • 2 tbsp fresh basil or parsley chopped

Method
 

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
  2. Cook pasta in salted boiling water until just al dente. Drain and set aside.
  3. In a bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, egg, garlic, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Mix gently and form into small meatballs.
  4. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook meatballs 6–7 minutes, turning occasionally, until browned on all sides (they will finish cooking in the oven).
  5. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, marinara sauce, and half the mozzarella. Stir gently to coat.
  6. Transfer pasta mixture to the baking dish. Nestle meatballs evenly into the pasta.
  7. Top with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
  8. Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
  9. Garnish with basil or parsley before serving.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Calories: 560kcalCarbohydrates: 46gProtein: 34gFat: 26g

Notes

You can use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
Make it extra cheesy by adding ricotta or provolone between layers.
This dish freezes well – bake, cool, then freeze in portions for easy reheating.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!