Meatball Casserole

Oh wow, have you ever craved something warm, cheesy, and downright comforting? This meatball casserole is like a big hug on a plate. It’s easy to make, super filling, and oh-so delicious!

I’ve made this so many times, and it never lasts long. Juicy meatballs, rich tomato sauce, and gooey melted cheese—all baked together? Yes, please! Plus, it’s simple enough for a busy weeknight.

The best part? You only need one dish, and the oven does most of the work. It smells amazing while it bakes, making everyone rush to the table. Trust me, you’ll want seconds.

Ready to dig in? Let’s get cooking—this casserole is about to become your new favorite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Comfort Food Favorite: A warm, cheesy dish that’s perfect for family dinners.
• Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and minimal prep make this an excellent choice for weeknights.
• Customizable: Adjust seasonings, add veggies, or swap out pasta types for variety.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Make ahead and reheat for quick lunches or dinners.
• Kid-Approved: The cheesy, saucy flavors make this a favorite for picky eaters.

What You Need to Know Before You Start

Prep Time & Cook Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Total Time: About 55 minutes

Servings

This recipe makes 6 servings, perfect for a family meal. If you need more, you can double the ingredients and use a larger baking dish.

Difficulty Level

Beginner-friendly! Even if you’re new to cooking, this dish is simple and rewarding to make.

Required Kitchen Tools

To prepare this dish, you’ll need:
✔ Large pot – for boiling the pasta
✔ Baking dish (9×13-inch) – to bake the casserole
✔ Mixing bowls – for combining ingredients
✔ Wooden spoon or spatula – for mixing and layering
✔ Measuring cups & spoons – for accurate ingredient portions
✔ Grater – for fresh Parmesan cheese (if using)

Ingredients for Meatball Casserole

Here’s what you’ll need for this delicious, cheesy casserole:

• 12 oz rotini pasta (or any pasta of your choice)
• 2 cups marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
• 15-18 cooked meatballs (homemade or frozen)
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (optional, for extra flavor)
• ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for a mild kick)
• ½ cup ricotta cheese (optional, for creaminess)
• ½ small onion, finely chopped (optional, for added texture and flavor)

Variations for Meatball Casserole

• Add Vegetables: Stir in sautéed spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms for added nutrition and flavor.
• Use Different Pasta: Penne, ziti, or shell pasta all work well if you don’t have rotini on hand.
• Try Alfredo Sauce: Swap marinara for a creamy Alfredo for a rich twist.
• Make It Spicy: Add more crushed red pepper or a pinch of cayenne to the sauce.
• Use Different Cheese: Blend in provolone, cheddar, or gouda for a new layer of cheesy goodness.
• Homemade Meatballs: Make your own meatballs with ground beef or turkey, breadcrumbs, egg, herbs, and seasoning.

How to Make Meatball Casserole – Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rotini and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

2. Prepare the Sauce Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, combine the marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using). Add onions if desired. Mix well.

3. Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the drained pasta to the sauce mixture. Stir gently to coat all the pasta evenly with the sauce. If using ricotta cheese, stir it in at this stage for added creaminess.

4. Layer the Casserole

In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish:

• Spread half of the pasta mixture on the bottom.
• Arrange the meatballs evenly over the pasta.
• Top with the remaining pasta mixture.

5. Add Cheese

Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the top. Follow with a layer of grated Parmesan cheese.

6. Bake

Cover the dish with foil and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and lightly golden.

7. Garnish and Rest

Remove from the oven and let the casserole rest for 5 minutes. Sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving.

Serving and Decoration

How to Serve Meatball Casserole

This dish is rich, hearty, and stands alone as a full meal, but here are a few simple ways to round it out:

• With Garlic Bread: A warm, crispy slice is perfect for soaking up the sauce.
• Side Salad: Serve with a light arugula or Caesar salad to balance the richness.
• Steamed Veggies: Broccoli or green beans add a fresh touch to the meal.
• Grated Parmesan: Place a bowl of extra grated Parmesan at the table for anyone who wants more cheese.
• Fresh Basil or Parsley: Sprinkle on top just before serving for a pop of color and freshness.

Storing Meatball Casserole

• Refrigerator: Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container for 3 to 4 days.
• Freezer: Freeze individual portions or the full baked casserole for up to 2 months. Wrap tightly in plastic and foil.
• Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (covered with foil) until warmed through, or use the microwave for smaller portions. Add a splash of water or sauce if it looks dry.

Tips and Tricks for Success

• Undercook the Pasta Slightly: Pasta continues to cook in the oven, so aim for al dente.
• Use a Flavorful Sauce: A high-quality or homemade marinara will make a big difference.
• Mix the Cheese In: For extra cheesy bites, mix a portion of the mozzarella into the pasta before baking.
• Don’t Skip Resting Time: Letting the casserole sit for 5 minutes after baking helps it set and makes serving easier.
• Pre-Cooked Meatballs Work Best: Make sure meatballs are fully cooked before assembling the casserole to avoid excess liquid or uneven cooking.

Nutrition

Nutrient	Per Serving (Approximate)
Calories	420
Protein	25g
Carbohydrates	36g
Dietary Fiber	3g
Sugars	5g
Total Fat	20g
Saturated Fat	9g
Cholesterol	65mg
Sodium	720mg
Calcium	180mg
Iron	3mg

Note: Nutritional values may vary depending on ingredient brands and exact measurements.

Meatball Casserole FAQs

Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes. You can fully assemble the casserole, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

Q: Can I use frozen meatballs?
Absolutely. Just make sure they’re fully cooked before adding them to the casserole.

Q: What can I use instead of rotini?
Ziti, penne, shells, or elbow macaroni all work well.

Q: Can I freeze this after baking?
Yes. Let it cool completely, portion it out, and freeze in airtight containers for up to 2 months.

Q: How do I make this gluten-free?
Use gluten-free pasta and check the meatballs and sauce for gluten-free labeling.

Conclusion

This Meatball Casserole is a cozy, make-ahead meal that never disappoints. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just want leftovers that taste even better the next day, this simple dish delivers rich, cheesy, saucy goodness in every bite. It’s flexible, easy to make, and sure to earn a spot in your weekly dinner rotation.