Meatball Casserole Recipe

Name: Meatball Casserole
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 50 min
Ingredients: 14.5 ounces package uncooked rotini pasta; 24 ounce jar marinara sauce; 2 cups beef broth; 1 cup milk; 16 ounce package fully-cooked meatballs (thawed); ½ teaspoon sea salt; ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper; 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (freshly shredded); fresh basil (chopped); ¼ teaspoon Italian seasoning

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Meatball Casserole is a simple baked pasta dinner made with rotini, marinara sauce, tender meatballs, and melted mozzarella cheese. It's an easy, family-friendly casserole recipe that comes together in one dish and bakes into a hearty, comforting meal.

An Easy Weeknight Casserole the Whole Family Loves

Some nights just call for a dinner that's simple, filling, and guaranteed to make everyone happy at the table. This meatball casserole is exactly that kind of recipe. Everything goes straight into the baking dish… the pasta, sauce, broth, milk, and meatballs… and the oven does the rest of the work.

As it bakes, the pasta absorbs the rich marinara and broth, creating a saucy, flavorful casserole. The meatballs warm through and soak up the sauce, and the final layer of melted mozzarella brings everything together into a cozy, satisfying dinner that tastes like classic baked pasta but takes almost no effort.

Meatball casserole in a baking dish, with wooden spoon pulling casserole out.

It's perfect for busy weeknights, feeding a crowd, or anytime you want a warm, comforting dinner without standing over the stove. If you love meatball dishes, then you’ll also want to see these fun Meatball Stuffed Peppers recipe.

FAQs

Can I use frozen meatballs?

Yes. If using frozen meatballs, allow them to thaw first so they heat evenly while the pasta cooks.

Can I substitute the beef broth?

You can easily swap the beef broth for chicken broth or even water. The broth simply adds extra flavor to the sauce while the pasta cooks.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

You can assemble the casserole a few hours in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator until ready to bake. Add a few extra minutes to the bake time if starting cold.

How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Can this casserole be frozen?

Yes. Let the casserole cool completely, then store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven until warmed through.

Ingredients

Rotini pasta - The spiral shape holds onto the sauce well and cooks perfectly right in the casserole.
Marinara sauce - Adds rich tomato flavor and forms the base of the sauce for the pasta.
Beef broth - Helps cook the pasta in the oven while adding depth and savory flavor.
Milk - Balances the acidity of the tomato sauce and creates a slightly creamy texture.
Fully cooked meatballs - Makes this recipe incredibly quick and easy while still hearty and satisfying.
Sea salt - Enhances the overall flavor of the casserole.
Ground black pepper - Adds a mild warmth that complements the marinara sauce.
Mozzarella cheese - Melts into a gooey, cheesy topping that brings everything together.

Optional garnish

Fresh basil - Adds a fresh, bright finish.
Italian seasoning - Gives the casserole a classic Italian flavor.

Ingredients for meatball casserole on wooden table.

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 425°F and spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray.

Add the rotini pasta, marinara sauce, beef broth, milk, salt, and pepper to the prepared baking dish. Stir everything together until evenly combined.

Noodles, broth, and sauce in baking dish.

Place the meatballs evenly over the top of the pasta mixture.

Cover the casserole tightly with aluminum foil and bake for about 35 minutes.

Carefully remove the casserole from the oven and check the pasta. It should be al dente and nearly tender.

Baked meatballs and cooked pasta in 9x13 baking dish.

Sprinkle the freshly shredded mozzarella evenly over the top.

Return the casserole to the oven uncovered and bake until the cheese is melted and the pasta is fully tender, about 5-10 minutes more.

Cheese melted on top of meatball casserole in 9x13 baking dish.

Garnish with fresh basil and a sprinkle of Italian seasoning if desired. Serve warm.

Tips

Freshly shredded mozzarella melts smoother than pre-shredded cheese.
If you like a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the pasta mixture before baking.
Make sure the casserole is covered tightly with foil so the pasta cooks properly.
Stir the pasta mixture well before baking so the noodles cook evenly in the liquid.