Cheesy Meatball Pasta Bake Recipe
Ingredients:
Meatballs:
1 lb (450g) ground beef or pork
1/4 cup breadcrumbs
1 egg
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
1 tsp Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
Pasta:
12 oz (340g) rotini or penne pasta
1 jar (24 oz) marinara or tomato sauce
1 cup heavy cream or milk
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
1 tsp Italian seasoning
Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Meatballs:
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a mixing bowl, combine the ground meat, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
Shape the mixture into small meatballs and arrange them on the prepared baking sheet.
Bake for 15–20 minutes, or until fully cooked.
2. Cook the Pasta:
While the meatballs are baking, cook the pasta according to the package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. Make the Sauce:
In a large saucepan, warm the marinara sauce over medium heat.
Incorporate the heavy cream (or milk), Parmesan cheese, red pepper flakes, and Italian seasoning. Stir well and allow to simmer for 5 minutes.
4. Combine the Bake:
In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, mix the cooked pasta with the sauce.
Top with the baked meatballs.
Evenly distribute the shredded mozzarella cheese over the entire dish.
5. Bake:
Lower the oven temperature to 375°F (190°C).
Bake the dish uncovered for 20–25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Garnish and Serve:
Top with fresh parsley and serve while hot.
I look forward to hearing how it turns out!
