Description
A low-effort, high-reward casserole featuring frozen meatballs, pasta, and cheese that comes together in one dish.
Ingredients
- 1 pound frozen meatballs (beef, turkey, or plant-based)
- 1 can (24 oz) pasta sauce (your favorite marinara or tomato-basil)
- 1 cup water
- 2 cups uncooked pasta (penne or rigatoni)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large (9×13 inch or similar) ovenproof baking dish, pour in the jarred pasta sauce and 1 cup water. Stir to loosen the sauce.
- Add the frozen meatballs to the saucy mixture and stir gently so they’re coated and distributed.
- Stir in the uncooked pasta until well combined and submerged as much as possible in the sauce.
- Cover the dish tightly with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
- Carefully remove the foil, sprinkle the mozzarella and Parmesan evenly over the top, and return the dish to the oven for another 5–10 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes to set, then garnish with torn basil or chopped parsley and serve.
Notes
Adjust liquid slightly if using whole-wheat or gluten-free pasta. For creamier results, stir in 1/4–1/2 cup ricotta or mascarpone before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian