Name: One Pan Meatball Casserole
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 60 min
Ingredients: 16 oz uncooked ziti pasta; 24 oz marinara sauce; 1 cup milk; 2 cups water; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon onion powder; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 serving meatballs, fully cooked, thawed; 2 cups shredded mozzarella (or Italian blend cheese); 1 serving Parmesan cheese and fresh chopped herbs

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There’s something incredibly comforting about a dish like One Pan Meatball Casserole. I remember the first time I made it; it was a chilly evening, and the thought of a warm, cheesy meal was all I could think about. My friends were coming over, and I wanted to impress them with something delicious, yet easy. As I layered the flavors of the tender meatballs, ziti, and gooey cheese, the aroma filled my kitchen, and I knew I was onto something special. This dish not only offers the satisfaction of a hearty meal but also the joy of sharing it with loved ones. Every bite is a reminder of cozy gatherings around the table, laughter, and good company.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
60 mins

Prep Time:
10 mins

Cook Time:
50 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
420 kcal

Protein:
22 g

Diet:
Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
15 g

Tools Used:
Wooden Spoon, Chef’s Knife, Blender, Baking Sheet, Oven

What We Adore About This One Pan Meatball Casserole

Easy One-Pan Wonder

The greatest thing about One Pan Meatball Casserole is its simplicity. You can prepare everything in one dish, making cleanup a breeze. No need to juggle multiple pots and pans, which means more time to enjoy your meal and less time worrying about the mess in the kitchen.

Flavorful Ingredients

This casserole is packed with flavor. The combination of marinara sauce, mozzarella cheese, and perfectly cooked ziti creates a comforting symphony that sings with every bite. The meatballs add a rich heartiness that makes it a fulfilling dish.

Versatile and Customizable

Another reason to love this recipe is its versatility. You can easily adapt it to your taste by adding various vegetables or swapping out the cheese. Feel free to experiment with different flavors to make it your own.

Perfect for Gatherings

Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering, One Pan Meatball Casserole is perfect for serving a crowd. Its generous portions ensure everyone leaves satisfied. Plus, it looks stunning right out of the oven, making it an impressive centerpiece for any meal.

Make Ahead-Friendly

This recipe is great for meal prep. You can assemble it the night before and let the flavors meld together in the fridge. This convenience means you can have a tasty homemade meal ready to bake when you come home from a long day.

Kid-Approved

Finally, this casserole is a hit with kids and adults alike. The gooey cheese and savory meatballs make it appealing for little ones, ensuring that even picky eaters will be asking for seconds!

Ingredients Required for One Pan Meatball Casserole

To create a mouthwatering One Pan Meatball Casserole, you’ll need a harmonious blend of ingredients that work together beautifully. Each component plays a critical role, from the hearty ziti to the flavorful marinara sauce. Here’s a look at what you’ll need to bring this dish to life:

16oz. package uncooked ziti pasta: The base of the casserole, providing a delightful chewy texture that pairs perfectly with the sauce.
24 ounces marinara sauce: Adds rich, tangy flavor and creates a luscious sauce that envelopes the pasta.

1 cup milk: Contributes creaminess and helps to cook the pasta evenly.
2 cups water: Essential for cooking the pasta to perfection.
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Enhances the dish with a subtle, savory depth.

1/2 teaspoon onion powder: Brings a hint of sweetness and complexity.
1 teaspoon dried oregano: A classic herb that adds an aromatic touch.
1 teaspoon salt: Essential for seasoning the dish and enhancing the flavors.

Meatballs, fully cooked, thawed: The star of the dish, bringing protein and heartiness.
2 cups shredded mozzarella (or Italian blend cheese): Provides that irresistible gooey, melted topping.
Optional: Parmesan cheese and fresh chopped herbs: Perfect for garnishing and adding an extra layer of flavor.

How to Prepare One Pan Meatball Casserole

Making One Pan Meatball Casserole is a straightforward and enjoyable process. Follow these steps to create a dish that everyone will love. Trust me; it’s easier than you think!

First, preheat your oven to 425 degrees F. This ensures that your casserole bakes evenly and achieves a beautiful golden cheese topping.
In a 9×13 inch baking dish, combine the uncooked ziti pasta, marinara sauce, water, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, salt, and the thawed meatballs. Stir well to ensure everything is mixed thoroughly.

Once combined, cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil. This step is crucial as it traps the steam needed to cook the pasta.
Bake the covered casserole in the preheated oven for 40 minutes. During this time, the pasta will absorb the flavors and become tender.
After 40 minutes, carefully uncover the dish and give it a good stir. This will help distribute the sauce and ensure even cooking.

Check the pasta for doneness. You want it to be al dente—firm yet almost perfectly cooked. If it’s still too hard, cover the dish again and return it to the oven for a few more minutes.
Once the pasta is ready, sprinkle mozzarella cheese generously over the top. The cheese is what will create that heavenly, gooey topping.
Bake uncovered for an additional 5 to 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning.

Once done, remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to cool for at least 15 minutes before serving. This cooling time allows the sauce to thicken, making it easier to serve.

Things Worth Knowing

Use quality marinara: A good marinara sauce makes a big difference in flavor.
Check for doneness: It’s important to ensure that the pasta is cooked al dente, as it will continue to cook slightly after being removed from the oven.

Customize it: Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for added nutrition.
Don’t overbake: Keep an eye on the cheese to prevent it from burning; you want it to be golden and bubbly.

Tips and Tricks about One Pan Meatball Casserole

Here are some valuable tips to help you nail the One Pan Meatball Casserole every time:

Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.
Freezing: You can freeze the assembled casserole for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before baking.
Pairing: This casserole pairs wonderfully with a fresh garden salad or crusty garlic bread for a complete meal.

Meal Prep: Make this dish ahead of time and bake it fresh when needed. It’s great for busy weeknights.
Variations: Explore different cheeses like gouda or cheddar for unique flavors. You can also swap the meatballs for turkey or chicken versions.
Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat if you enjoy a kick in your meal.

Serving This One Pan Meatball Casserole

When it comes to serving One Pan Meatball Casserole, the options are plentiful. Here’s how to make the most out of this delicious dish:

Garnish: Top with freshly chopped herbs like basil or parsley right before serving for a pop of color and flavor.
Occasional Delight: This casserole is perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or gatherings. It’s a crowd-pleaser!

Seasonal Serving: Enjoy it during the cozy fall and winter months, but it’s delightful any time of the year.
Side Dishes: Serve with steamed vegetables or a crisp salad to balance the richness of the casserole.
Storage Tips: Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for easy reheating later. Just be mindful of how long it stays fresh.

Presentation: For an appealing presentation, serve it directly from the baking dish, showcasing the bubbling cheese and vibrant colors.

FAQ

Absolutely! You can assemble the entire One Pan Meatball Casserole the night before and store it in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to meld and can save you time when you’re ready to bake it. Just be cautious not to let it sit too long before baking, as it may affect the texture of the pasta.

This casserole pairs wonderfully with a fresh garden salad or garlic bread. The lightness of a salad complements the rich and hearty flavors of the casserole. You could also consider serving it with steamed vegetables for a more nutritious side.

Yes, you can freeze the One Pan Meatball Casserole before baking. Just cover it tightly with a double layer of aluminum foil and store it for up to three months. When ready to bake, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator. It’s a great way to have a homemade meal ready to go for busy nights!

To ensure the pasta is cooked properly, check for doneness after the initial baking time. The pasta should be al dente, which means it should be firm yet fully cooked. If it’s still too hard, cover the dish and return it to the oven for a few more minutes. This method ensures you achieve the perfect texture.

Conclusion

The One Pan Meatball Casserole is a delightful combination of flavors, perfect for any occasion. Its simplicity and comfort make it a go-to recipe for busy families or gatherings. I encourage you to give this dish a try; you won’t be disappointed. It’s sure to become a favorite in your household, bringing everyone together for a satisfying meal.

One Pan Meatball Casserole

The ultimate comfort food, One Pan Meatball Casserole blends tender pasta, savory meatballs, and gooey cheese in one hearty dish. Perfect for gatherings or a cozy dinner at home, this easy weeknight recipe will have everyone coming back for seconds!

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Prep Time 10

Cook Time 50

Total Time 1

Course Dinner

Cuisine American

Servings 8 servings

Calories 420 kcal

Equipment

Wooden Spoon
Chef's Knife
Blender
Baking Sheet
Oven

Ingredients

16 oz uncooked ziti pasta
24 oz marinara sauce
1 cup milk
2 cups water
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon salt
1 serving meatballs, fully cooked, thawed
2 cups shredded mozzarella (or Italian blend cheese)
1 serving Parmesan cheese and fresh chopped herbs

Instructions

Preheat oven to 425 degrees F.
In a 9x13 inch baking dish stir together uncooked pasta, marinara sauce, water, milk, spices and meatballs.
Cover tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 40 minutes.

Uncover; stir. Check the pasta for doneness. We want it to be al dente (firm, but almost perfectly cooked). If it’s still too hard, cover the dish and return to the oven for a few minutes.
Sprinkle mozzarella over the top and bake uncovered for 5-10 more minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Allow to cool for at least 15 minutes before serving, to allow the sauce to thicken up.

Notes

Tip 1: Want to make a smaller batch? Cut the recipe in half and bake in an 8’’ or similar size dish.
Tip 2: Make Ahead: This recipe can be assembled completely the night before, but I wouldn’t do it any sooner than that or the noodles may have a mushy texture after baking.
Tip 3: Freezing Instructions: Prepare the recipe up until baking. Cover with a double layer of aluminum foil and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before baking, or to bake from froze, bake covered for 1 hour and 30 minutes, and uncovered for 15-20 minutes longer.

Tip 4: Slow Cooker: Prepare as directed, but leave out the milk and add an additional 24 oz jar of marinara sauce. Be sure the ziti noodles are covered with sauce. Cook on HIGH for 2 - 2 ½ hours, or LOW for 3 ⅓ -4 hours or until pasta is tender. Sprinkle mozzarella cheese on top during the last few minutes of cooking and return the lid to allow the cheese to melt. Optional-place under broiler for a few minutes to toast the cheesy top.
Tip 5: Instant Pot: Here is my very similar recipe for Instant Pot Penne Pasta with Meatballs.