5-Ingredient Meatball Pasta Bake
This easy meatball pasta bake recipe is the ultimate quick family dinner idea made with simple pantry staples. With just 5 ingredients, this one-dish baked pasta casserole delivers rich flavor, tender pasta, juicy meatballs, and melty cheese without the need to boil noodles.
Perfect for busy weeknights, this easy oven baked meatball casserole is a comforting, hearty meal that everyone will love.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- No-boil pasta method saves time and cleanup
- One-dish meal for easy cooking and serving
- Family-friendly comfort food
- Budget-friendly dinner using simple ingredients
- Perfect for meal prep and leftovers
- Rich, cheesy, and satisfying baked pasta dish
Ingredients
- 12 oz dry rotini pasta (uncooked)
- 24 oz marinara or pasta sauce
- 3 cups water
- 1 lb frozen fully cooked meatballs
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
How to Make Meatball Pasta Bake
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Add the uncooked rotini pasta directly into the baking dish and spread it evenly.
In a bowl, mix the marinara sauce with water until well combined. Pour this mixture over the pasta, making sure most of it is covered so it cooks evenly.
Scatter the frozen meatballs on top of the pasta and sauce.
Cover tightly with foil to trap steam and help the pasta cook properly.
Bake for 35–40 minutes until the pasta is tender and fully cooked.
Remove the foil carefully, then sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the top.
Return to the oven and bake uncovered for another 10–15 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden.
Let it rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the sauce to thicken.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this easy baked pasta with meatballs alongside:
- Fresh green salad
- Garlic bread or dinner rolls
- Steamed vegetables like green beans or corn
Tips & Variations
- Add extra water for a saucier consistency
- Mix mozzarella with Parmesan for a richer cheese topping
- Sprinkle Italian seasoning or red pepper flakes for extra flavor
- Add vegetables like peas or broccoli for a healthier twist
- Use whole wheat pasta for a fiber-rich option
- Great for leftover meal prep just reheat with a splash of water
