Quick and Comforting Meatball Pasta Bake

Say hello to your new favorite quick and easy comfort food dish, folks! This Easy Meatball Pasta Bake is a comforting and hearty meal, loaded with tender meatballs, a rich and slightly creamy tomato sauce, and plenty of melty mozzarella cheese. It’s a delicious family dinner you’ll want to enjoy on repeat, perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekend gatherings.

Are you in the mood for a truly satisfying comfort food meal today? Truth be told, I’m always ready for a good comfort food dish. You name it, I’ll try it any day of the week, and if it involves meatballs, you can always count me in! There’s just something inherently comforting about a classic pasta bake, especially one generously packed with savory meatballs and gooey cheese. This recipe takes those beloved elements and elevates them into a simple yet incredibly flavorful dish that is sure to please everyone at your table.

Here at the Beach House Kitchen, some of my most cherished and frequently revisited recipes are meatball-focused. From the classic taste of my Swedish Meatballs to the delightful Marry Me Chicken Meatballs, and the savory goodness of Salisbury Steak Meatballs, these easy meatball recipes have become staples. Now, I’m thrilled to share a new favorite that combines the hearty appeal of meatballs with the irresistible charm of a cheesy pasta bake: the ultimate Meatball Pasta Bake.

Contents

Why This Easy Meatball Pasta Bake Will Become Your Family’s Favorite

This Easy Meatball Pasta Bake isn’t just another dinner; it’s a culinary triumph designed for busy lives and discerning palates. For those hectic weeknights when time is a precious commodity, I’m always seeking smart shortcuts that don’t compromise on flavor. Incorporating frozen, bite-sized meatballs into this pasta dish is a game-changer, transforming it into a quick family meal that is undeniably delicious and surprisingly simple to prepare.

What truly sets this Meatball Pasta Bake apart is the perfect harmony of its components. The sauce is robustly flavorful, boasting a subtle creaminess that coats every piece of pasta and meatball. The meatballs themselves are wonderfully moist and tender, absorbing the rich flavors of the sauce as they simmer. And, of course, there’s the generous amount of fresh mozzarella, which melts into gooey, irresistible strings, creating that perfect cheesy pull with every forkful. This dish isn’t just about feeding your family; it’s about creating a memorable, comforting experience with minimal effort.

Essential Ingredients for Your Delicious Meatball Pasta Bake

Creating this irresistible Meatball Pasta Bake starts with a selection of readily available ingredients, most of which you likely already have in your pantry. Opting for good quality ingredients will always enhance the final taste, but the beauty of this recipe lies in its flexibility and approachability. Here’s what you’ll need to bring this comforting dish to life:

olive oil
yellow onion, finely chopped
garlic, finely minced
white cooking wine
crushed tomatoes
Italian seasoning
crushed red pepper flakes (for a touch of heat, adjust to your preference)
bite-size frozen meatballs (a fantastic shortcut!)
16 oz. medium shell pasta (or your favorite similar-sized pasta)
heavy cream
fresh basil leaves
grated Parmesan cheese
fresh mozzarella cheese

When it comes to pasta, I prefer medium-sized shells for this particular recipe as they perfectly cup the rich sauce and meatballs. However, feel free to substitute them with penne, ziti, rotini, or any other similar-sized pasta noodle you have on hand or prefer. The goal is a pasta shape that can hold its own and absorb the delicious flavors of the sauce.

For the cheese, I typically use an eight-ounce ball of fresh mozzarella. I simply slice it and then gently rip the slices apart into smaller, irregular pieces. This method allows for pockets of wonderfully gooey, melted cheese to be tucked in between the pasta and meatballs before the dish goes into the oven, ensuring a delightful cheesy experience with every bite.

Step-by-Step Guide to Crafting the Perfect Meatball Pasta Bake

Follow these simple instructions to create a hearty and satisfying Meatball Pasta Bake that will quickly become a weeknight staple. The process is straightforward, ensuring even novice cooks can achieve delicious results.

Part 1: Preparing the Rich Tomato Sauce

The first step in creating this flavorful sauce is to heat your olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add your finely chopped yellow onion and cook for about 4 minutes, or until the onion begins to soften and become translucent. Next, add your finely minced garlic and continue to cook for just one more minute, until it becomes wonderfully fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as this can make it bitter.

The second step involves adding your white cooking wine to the saucepan. Bring the mixture to a low boil, allowing the alcohol to cook off and the flavors to meld. Then, lower the heat to a gentle simmer and continue to cook for approximately three minutes, until the wine has slightly reduced, concentrating its delicate notes and preparing the base for your tomato sauce.

The third step is to introduce the heart of the sauce: add your crushed tomatoes, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes (adjust the amount to your desired level of spice). Bring this mixture to a boil, then immediately lower the heat to a simmer. Add your frozen bite-sized meatballs to the sauce, ensuring they are submerged. Cover the saucepan and allow everything to cook for about 10 minutes. This step allows the meatballs to heat through and absorb the delicious flavors of the simmering tomato sauce.

Part 2: Combining and Baking Your Delicious Pasta Dish

The fourth step involves adding richness and body to your sauce. Stir in your heavy cream and continue to cook the sauce for another 8-10 minutes, allowing it to gently thicken to a beautiful, luscious consistency. While your creamy meatball sauce is simmering to perfection, it’s time to prepare your pasta. Cook your chosen pasta according to the package directions, but aim for it to be just a minute or two shy of al dente. This slight undercooking is crucial, as the pasta will finish cooking in the oven, preventing it from becoming mushy.

Once your pasta is cooked, drain it thoroughly and return it to your large pasta pot. Add almost all of your prepared sauce and meatballs to the pasta, reserving just a ladle or two for the topping. Also, add your grated Parmesan cheese and about half of your fresh basil leaves (julienned or roughly chopped). Mix everything until it’s well combined, ensuring every piece of pasta is coated with the delicious sauce. Now, pour this delectable mixture into your prepared 9×13 inch baking dish. Evenly tuck in your pieces of fresh mozzarella cheese amongst the pasta and meatballs, then drizzle the reserved sauce here and there on top for an extra burst of flavor and a beautiful finish.

Finally, you’ll bake your dish in a preheated oven at 375 degrees Fahrenheit (190°C) for about 20 minutes. Keep an eye on it until the cheese is wonderfully melted and bubbly, and the sauce is gently simmering around the edges. For an extra touch of freshness and color, I love to top mine with some additional fresh basil just before serving. This Meatball Pasta Bake pairs perfectly with a side of warm garlic bread and a glass of your favorite red wine for a complete and satisfying meal. Please let me know if you give the recipe a try! If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to drop a comment below. Enjoy every comforting bite!

Expert Tips for the Best Meatball Pasta Bake

To ensure your Meatball Pasta Bake turns out perfectly every time, consider these expert tips:

Pasta Perfection: As mentioned, cooking your pasta slightly under al dente is key. It will absorb more flavor from the sauce and achieve the ideal texture during the baking process, preventing it from becoming soggy.
Cheese Choice Matters: While fresh mozzarella is recommended for its superior melt and creamy texture, you can experiment. A blend of mozzarella and provolone offers a different flavor profile, or a sprinkle of sharp cheddar for a more robust taste.
Meatball Matters: Frozen meatballs are a fantastic time-saver. However, if you have extra time, homemade meatballs will elevate this dish even further. You can use beef, pork, turkey, or a combination.
Sauce Consistency: If your sauce seems too thick after adding the heavy cream, you can thin it slightly with a splash of pasta water or vegetable broth until it reaches your desired consistency.
Golden Brown Finish: For an extra golden crust on your cheese, you can briefly switch your oven to broil for the last minute or two of baking. Watch it closely to prevent burning!
Fresh Herbs are Best: Don’t skip the fresh basil. Its aromatic qualities truly brighten the rich flavors of the tomato and cheese, adding a fresh contrast to this hearty dish.

Variations and Customizations for Your Meatball Pasta Bake

One of the joys of cooking is making a recipe your own. This Easy Meatball Pasta Bake is incredibly versatile, allowing for numerous delicious variations:

Protein Power-Up: While frozen beef meatballs are convenient, consider using Italian sausage meatballs, chicken meatballs, or even plant-based meatballs for a vegetarian twist.
Veggie Boost: Sneak in extra vegetables by adding finely diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach to the sauce along with the onions and garlic. Roasted zucchini or eggplant chunks would also be delicious folded in with the pasta.
Spice It Up: If you love heat, increase the red pepper flakes or add a pinch of cayenne pepper. For a milder version, omit them entirely.
Cheese Dreams: Beyond mozzarella, consider adding ricotta cheese in dollops over the pasta before baking for an extra creamy layer, or a sprinkle of smoked provolone for a depth of flavor.
Herb Garden: Experiment with other fresh herbs like oregano or parsley, either mixed into the sauce or as a garnish.

Make Ahead & Storage Tips

This Meatball Pasta Bake is an excellent candidate for make-ahead meal prep, making weeknights even easier.

Make Ahead: You can assemble the entire pasta bake in your baking dish, cover it tightly with foil, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.
Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Reheating: For best results, reheat individual portions in the microwave or a larger portion in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through and bubbly. Add a splash of water or broth if the sauce seems too dry.
Freezing: This pasta bake freezes beautifully! Allow the baked dish to cool completely, then cover it tightly with aluminum foil and plastic wrap. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating in the oven.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Meatball Pasta Bake

Can I use homemade meatballs for this recipe?: Absolutely! If you have a favorite homemade meatball recipe, feel free to use it. Just ensure they are fully cooked or at least mostly cooked before adding them to the sauce to simmer, as specified in the recipe. This will allow them to properly absorb the sauce flavors.
What can I use instead of white cooking wine?: If you prefer not to use alcohol, a good quality chicken or vegetable broth can be used as a substitute for the white cooking wine. It will still provide a depth of flavor to the sauce.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?: Yes, easily! Simply substitute the frozen beef meatballs with a plant-based or vegetarian meatball alternative. Ensure your Italian seasoning and Parmesan cheese are also vegetarian-friendly.
Is it possible to prepare this dish in a slow cooker?: While the sauce can be prepared in a slow cooker, baking the pasta separately and then combining for the final bake is usually best for texture. However, you could cook the sauce and meatballs in a slow cooker for a few hours, then combine with pre-cooked pasta and bake as directed.
What kind of pasta works best?: Medium shells are fantastic because they scoop up the sauce. However, penne, ziti, rigatoni, or even rotini work wonderfully. Choose a pasta shape that has some nooks and crannies to hold onto that delicious sauce.

More Comforting Meatball Recipes to Explore

If you’re a fan of meatballs, you’ll love these other popular recipes from my kitchen:

Swedish Meatball Pasta Bake
Marry Me Chicken Meatballs
Greek Meatballs and Gravy

Meatball Pasta Bake Recipe

Author: MaryAnn Dwyer

Servings: 8 servings

Say hello to your new favorite quick and easy comfort food dish. This Easy Meatball Pasta Bake is loaded with meatballs, a flavorful and slightly creamy sauce and some melty mozzarella cheese. It’s a delicious meal you’ll want to enjoy on repeat!

Prep Time: 20 mins

Cook Time: 45 mins

Total Time: 1 hr 5 mins

Ingredients

2 Tbsp. olive oil
1 1/4 cups yellow onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, finely minced
2/3 cup white cooking wine
1 28-oz. can crushed tomatoes
1 1/2 tsp. Italian seasoning
1/2 tsp. red pepper flakes
1 18-oz. bag frozen bite-size meatballs
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
8-10 fresh basil leaves, julienned or roughly chopped, divided
16 oz. box medium shell pasta
8 oz. ball fresh mozzarella, sliced and then torn in half

Instructions

Preheat oven to 375 degrees F (190°C). Lightly spray a 9×13 inch baking dish with nonstick baking spray. Set aside.
Add your olive oil to a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add your chopped onion and cook for about 4 minutes until softened, before adding your minced garlic and continuing to cook for one minute until fragrant.
Add your white cooking wine and bring to a low boil, then lower the heat to a simmer and continue to cook for three minutes until the wine is slightly reduced.
Stir in the crushed tomatoes, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes. Bring the sauce to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Add the frozen meatballs and cook covered for about 10 minutes, allowing the meatballs to heat through and absorb some sauce flavor.
Stir in your heavy cream and continue to cook for 8-10 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly. While the mixture is cooking, cook your pasta just a minute or two shy of al dente according to the package directions.
Drain your pasta and return it to your pasta pot. Add all but a ladle or two of your sauce, meatballs, as well as your grated Parmesan and about half of the fresh basil. Mix until well combined.
Pour the pasta and meatball mixture into your prepared 9×13 inch baking dish. Evenly tuck in your pieces of fresh mozzarella throughout the pasta. Then, add your reserved sauce here and there on top.
Bake for about 20 minutes at 375 degrees F (190°C), or until the cheese is beautifully melted and bubbly, and the sauce is gently simmering. Garnish with the remaining fresh basil, if desired, before serving.

Notes

I used medium-sized shells for this recipe, but you could easily substitute with penne, ziti, rotini, or another similar-sized pasta.
For the cheese, fresh mozzarella creates the best melty texture. An eight-ounce ball, sliced and torn into smaller pieces, works perfectly for tucking into the pasta. Shredded mozzarella can also be used, sprinkled on top.

Nutrition

Keyword: meatballs, Pasta, pasta bake, easy meatball pasta bake, comfort food, weeknight dinner, Italian pasta, cheesy pasta

Cuisine: Italian-American

Course: Main Dish, Dinner

Before your first bite, snap a photo and share!
If you make this recipe, I’d love to see! Be sure to follow thebeachhousekitchen on Instagram and tag Mention
@thebeachhousekitchen or tag
#thebeachhousekitchen!

I hope this Easy Meatball Pasta Bake brings as much joy and comfort to your table as it does to mine. It’s a testament to how simple ingredients can come together to create something truly special and memorable. Don’t forget to leave a comment below if you try this recipe or have any questions. Happy cooking, and bon appétit!