If you’re searching for the ultimate comfort food, this Classic Meatball Pasta Casserole with Mozzarella and Parmesan is exactly what you need. Loaded with tender pasta, juicy meatballs, creamy ricotta, and plenty of melted cheese, this dish is the perfect family-friendly meal for weeknights, gatherings, or potlucks. The combination of marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, and garlic powder creates a rich, savory flavor that everyone will love.
One of the best things about this pasta casserole is how easy it is to prepare. Using frozen cooked meatballs saves time without sacrificing taste, while layering the ziti with ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan ensures every bite is cheesy and satisfying. Baked until golden and bubbly, it’s a hearty meal that requires minimal effort but delivers maximum comfort.
This meatball pasta bake recipe is also a versatile dish. You can add vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini for extra nutrition, or swap the ziti for penne or rigatoni. Whether you’re cooking for picky eaters or a crowd, this recipe is guaranteed to be a hit. Plus, leftovers reheat beautifully, making it a great option for meal prep and busy weeknights.
Serve this delicious Italian-style pasta casserole with a fresh green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables for a complete dinner. It’s budget-friendly, kid-approved, and packed with flavor, making it a true go-to recipe. Once you try this cheesy, baked pasta with meatballs, it’s sure to become a family favorite you’ll return to again and again.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Servings: 8
Yield: 1 large pasta bake
Ingredients:
1 (16 oz) package ziti pasta
1 ½ lbs frozen cooked meatballs, thawed
2 (28 oz) jars marinara sauce
1 cup ricotta cheese
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1 teaspoon garlic powder
3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
⅔ cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided
Step-by-Step Instructions For Classic Meatball Pasta Casserole with Mozzarella and Parmesan
Preparation:
Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Cook the ziti, stirring occasionally, until just underdone — about 3 minutes less than the package recommends (around 8 minutes). Drain well.
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 13×9-inch baking dish.
Heat a little oil in a skillet over medium heat. Brown the meatballs on all sides, about 5 minutes. Stir in marinara sauce and ricotta cheese, mixing until well combined. Add the pasta and toss to coat. Season with Italian seasoning and garlic powder.
To assemble: Spread a thin layer of sauce (without meatballs) on the bottom of the prepared dish. Sprinkle 1 cup mozzarella over it. Add a layer of the meatball sauce mixture, then top with ⅓ cup Parmesan. Follow with another 1 cup mozzarella. Spread the remaining meatball mixture on top and finish with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan. Cover with aluminum foil.
Bake for 20–30 minutes, until the cheese has melted. Remove the foil and bake for another 10–20 minutes, until the top is bubbly and golden brown.
Serve hot and enjoy!
Nutrition Facts (per serving)
Total Calories: 701 – Fat: 26g – Carbs: 77g – Protein: 38g
Delicious Variations:
Vegetable Boost: Add layers of sautéed spinach, zucchini, mushrooms, or bell peppers to the casserole for extra flavor and nutrition.
Spicy Kick: Mix red pepper flakes or a bit of hot sauce into the marinara sauce for a slightly spicy version.
Different Cheeses: Try swapping ricotta with cottage cheese or mascarpone for a creamier texture, or add provolone and cheddar for extra cheesiness.
Pasta Swap: Replace ziti with penne, rigatoni, or rotini—any pasta shape with ridges will hold the sauce and cheese perfectly.
Protein Options: Instead of frozen meatballs, use homemade beef, turkey, or chicken meatballs for a fresher, lighter alternative.
Practical Tips:
Undercook the Pasta: Boil the pasta a few minutes less than the package directions, since it will finish cooking in the oven.
Layer Properly: Always start with a thin layer of sauce at the bottom of the dish to prevent sticking and to keep the pasta moist.
Cover with Foil First: Bake covered to trap steam, then remove the foil to get that golden, bubbly cheese topping.
Meal Prep Friendly: Assemble the casserole ahead of time, refrigerate overnight, and bake just before serving. It also freezes well for up to 2 months.
Serving Idea: Pair with garlic bread and a crisp salad for a restaurant-style Italian dinner at home.
