One Pot Cheesy Meatball and Pasta Bake Recipe

Welcome to my West Virginia Kitchen!  Are you looking for a quick and comforting weeknight dinner?  My One Pot Cheesy Meatball and Pasta Bake is the answer! 

Using frozen meatballs makes this recipe incredibly convenient, and the cheesy, hearty pasta is sure to satisfy everyone at the table.  This dish comes together in a single pot, minimizing cleanup while maximizing flavor.  I can't wait to share it with you so...

Let's Get Started!

WHY YOU'LL LOVE THIS RECIPE:

• Quick and Easy:  Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe requires minimal prep. 
• One Pot Wonder:  Less cleanup means more time to relax after dinner.  
• Family-Friendly:  Kids and adults alike love the cheesy comforting flavors.  
• Versatile:  Customize with your favorite pasta shapes and types of cheese. 

INGREDIENTS:

• 1 lb Penne Pasta
• 1 (16 oz) package of Frozen Italian Meatballs
• 1 (24 oz) jar of Pasta Sauce
• 4 cups Water or Broth
• 2 cups Mozzarella Cheese, shredded

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Preheat the Oven:  Preheat the oven to 350°F/177°C.
2. Assemble the Casserole:  Pour the uncooked pasta, sauce, and water into a 9x13 baking dish and stir together.  Place the meatballs on top of the pasta mixture.  Cover with foil. 
3. Bake:  Place in the preheated oven for one hour.  You may want to check at the 30 minute mark and give it a stir, but that isn't necessary.  After one hour the pasta and meatballs should be fully cooked.  Cover with the shredded cheese and place back into the oven, uncovered, until the cheese melts.  
4. Garnish and Serve:  Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly.  Garnish with fresh basil or parsley before serving.  Serve hot with a side salad and some garlic bread.  

TIPS AND TRICKS:

• Use High-Quality Marinara Sauce:  Since the sauce is key component, using a high-qulaity marinara will enhance the overall flavor.  
• Broth Variations:  Feel free to use vegetable broth if you prefer a vegetarian option (just use plant-based meatballs).
• Cheese Choices:  Experiment with different cheeses like cheddar, gouda, or provolone for a unique twist.  
• Extra Veggies:  Add in some diced bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms for additional nutrients and flavor.  

FAQs:

Can I use homemade meatballs?

Absolutely!  If you have homemade meatballs on hand, you can use them.  Just make sure they are fully cooked before adding them to the baking dish. 

What pasta shapes work best for this recipe?

Short pasta shapes like penne, rotini, rigatoni, or ziti work best.  They hole the sauce well and cook evenly. 

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes you can prepare the dish ahead of tie and refrigerate it before the baking step.  When ready to eat, bake it in the oven until heated through and bubbly.  

How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.  Reheat in the oven or microwave until warm.  

This One-Pot Cheesy Meatball and Pasta Bake is the perfect solution for a delicious, no-fuss dinner.  With minimal ingredients and effort, you can have a comforting, cheesy dish on the table in no time.  Whether you're cooking for your family or entertaining guests, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household.  

And as always...

Happy Eatin' Y'all!

~The Kitchen Wife~