Cheesy Meatball Pasta Bake
A comforting Italian-inspired dish featuring hearty meatballs, tender pasta, and a rich marinara sauce topped with gooey melted cheese.
Ingredients
For the Meatballs
- 1 lb ground beef Choose lean ground beef for a healthier option.
- 1 tsp garlic powder Adds depth and aroma.
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning Infuses the dish with Italian flavors.
For the Pasta Bake
- 2 cups marinara sauce Rich and tangy sauce base.
- 8 oz cooked penne pasta Ideal pasta shape.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella Melts beautifully.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan Brings a nutty flavor.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine ground beef with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Mix thoroughly and form into mini meatballs.
Cooking
- Heat a skillet over medium heat and add the meatballs, browning them on all sides until fully cooked.
- In a large bowl, mix cooked penne pasta with marinara sauce, half of the mozzarella, and all of the Parmesan cheese.
- Gently incorporate the cooked meatballs into the pasta mixture.
- Transfer the mixture into a baking dish and top with remaining mozzarella.
- Bake for about 20 minutes until bubbly and golden.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
Consider adding vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrition. A breadcrumb layer mixed with melted butter can provide a crunchy topping.