Introduction
Meatball Pasta Casserole is a comforting dish that combines tender pasta, juicy meatballs, savory marinara sauce, and gooey melted cheese in a single dish.
It’s the ultimate crowd-pleaser, perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or any occasion where comfort food is a must. This recipe brings together the best of Italian-American cuisine and is both hearty and easy to prepare.
Origin and Cultural Significance
The concept of meatballs with pasta originates from Italian-American traditions. While traditional Italian cuisine often serves meatballs separately, Italian immigrants in America began combining them with pasta to create more filling and satisfying meals for their families. The addition of cheese and baking the dish as a casserole further Americanized the recipe, turning it into a baked delight loved across households for its warmth and richness.
Ingredients Quantity
For the Meatballs:
- Ground beef: 1 lb (450 g)
- Ground pork: ½ lb (225 g)
- Breadcrumbs: ½ cup
- Grated Parmesan cheese: ¼ cup
- Egg: 1 large
- Milk: 2 tbsp
- Garlic (minced): 2 cloves
- Salt: 1 tsp
- Black pepper: ½ tsp
- Italian seasoning: 1 tsp
For the Casserole:
- Pasta (penne or rigatoni): 12 oz (340 g)
- Marinara sauce: 3 cups
- Mozzarella cheese (shredded): 2 cups
- Parmesan cheese (grated): ½ cup
- Fresh basil (for garnish): Optional
Optional Additions
- Vegetables: Sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini for added nutrition.
- Spices: A pinch of red pepper flakes for heat.
- Cheese Variations: Replace mozzarella with provolone or ricotta for a creamier texture.
- Herbs: Fresh parsley or oregano mixed into the meatballs or sprinkled on top.
Tips for Success
- Cook Pasta Al Dente: Slightly undercook the pasta since it will continue to cook in the oven.
- Shape Even Meatballs: Use a cookie scoop or your hands to ensure uniform cooking.
- Sear Meatballs: For added flavor, sear meatballs in a skillet before baking.
- Layer Wisely: Start with sauce at the bottom of the casserole dish to prevent sticking.
- Rest Before Serving: Allow the casserole to cool slightly to help it set.
Instructions
- Prepare the Meatballs:
- In a mixing bowl, combine ground beef, pork, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, egg, milk, garlic, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- Form into 1-inch meatballs.
- Optional: Sear in a skillet until browned.
- Cook the Pasta:
- Boil pasta in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Assemble the Casserole:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce at the bottom of a casserole dish.
- Layer cooked pasta, meatballs, and the remaining marinara sauce.
- Top with shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan.
- Bake:
- Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
- Remove foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, until cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Sprinkle with fresh basil before serving.
Description
Meatball Pasta Casserole is a culinary masterpiece that pairs tender, flavor-packed meatballs with perfectly cooked pasta, all enveloped in a rich marinara sauce. Topped with a blanket of melted cheese, each bite is an indulgence in comfort food at its finest. The casserole is hearty, flavorful, and destined to become a family favorite.
Nutritional Information (per serving; serves 6)
- Calories: 480
- Protein: 28 g
- Fat: 20 g
- Carbohydrates: 42 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Sodium: 780 mg
Conclusion
Meatball Pasta Casserole is more than just a dish—it’s a celebration of comfort, warmth, and togetherness. Whether you’re serving it at a dinner party or as a weeknight meal, this recipe brings joy to the table with its robust flavors and hearty ingredients.
Recommendation
Pair this casserole with a crisp green salad and garlic bread for a complete meal. It also reheats beautifully, making it a great option for meal prep or leftovers.
Embracing Healthful Indulgence
While this casserole is rich and satisfying, it can be made healthier by using lean ground turkey or chicken for the meatballs, whole-grain pasta, and reduced-fat cheese. You’ll still enjoy the delicious flavors without compromising your nutritional goals.
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