30 Baked Pasta Casserole with Meatball Recipes for Comfort

There’s nothing quite like a cozy, homemade meal to soothe the soul, especially when it involves pasta and meatballs. So, I embarked on a mission to gather my favorite 30 baked pasta casserole with meatball recipes for comfort to share with you all.

These dishes combine the creamy textures of pasta with the rich, flavorful goodness of meatballs and are perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or just treating yourself on a lazy Sunday afternoon. From classic Italian flavors to inventive twists, there’s a casserole dish here to match every craving and occasion. Get your aprons ready and let’s dive into these delectable recipes!

1. Classic Baked Ziti with Meatballs

A traditional comfort food dish that never fails to please.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound ziti pasta
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 cup Italian breadcrumbs
• 1 egg
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F.
2. Cook the ziti according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic, salt, and pepper. Form into small meatballs.
4. Brown the meatballs in a skillet over medium heat until fully cooked.
5. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked ziti, marinara sauce, ricotta cheese, and half of the mozzarella.
6. Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish. Top with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
8. Garnish with fresh basil before serving.

2. Cheesy Alfredo Meatball Casserole

For those who love creamy, cheesy pasta dishes.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound fettuccine
• 1 pound ground turkey
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1 egg
• 2 cups Alfredo sauce
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Olive oil for frying
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Chopped parsley for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F. Cook fettuccine according to package directions until al dente. Drain.
2. In a bowl, mix ground turkey, panko breadcrumbs, egg, garlic, salt, and pepper. Shape into small meatballs.
3. Cook meatballs in a skillet with olive oil until brown and fully cooked.
4. In a large mixing bowl, combine fettuccine, Alfredo sauce, half of the mozzarella, and meatballs.
5. Transfer to a greased baking dish. Top with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.

3. Spicy Arrabbiata Meatball Bake

For those who crave a bit of heat in their comfort food.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound penne pasta
• 1 pound Italian sausage
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 egg
• 2 cups Arrabbiata sauce
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 2 cups shredded provolone cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Pecorino Romano cheese
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Red pepper flakes
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F. Cook penne according to package directions until al dente. Drain.
2. In a bowl, mix Italian sausage, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Form into meatballs.
3. Cook meatballs in a skillet until brown and fully cooked.
4. In a large bowl, combine penne, Arrabbiata sauce, ricotta cheese, and half of the provolone.
5. Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish. Top with remaining provolone and Pecorino Romano.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
7. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

4. BBQ Meatball Pasta Casserole

A unique twist with tangy and sweet BBQ flavors.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound elbow macaroni
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 egg
• 2 cups BBQ sauce
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup mozzarella cheese
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Chopped green onions for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F. Cook elbow macaroni until al dente. Drain.
2. In a bowl, mix ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic, salt, and pepper. Form into meatballs.
3. Cook meatballs in a skillet until brown and fully cooked.
4. In a large bowl, combine elbow macaroni, BBQ sauce, half of the cheddar, and meatballs.
5. Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish. Top with remaining cheddar and mozzarella.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Garnish with chopped green onions before serving.

5. Mediterranean Meatball and Orzo Casserole

Transport yourself to the Mediterranean with these flavors.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound orzo pasta
• 1 pound ground lamb
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 egg
• 2 cups tomato sauce
• 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh dill for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F. Cook orzo until al dente. Drain.
2. In a bowl, mix ground lamb, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Form into meatballs.
3. Cook meatballs in a skillet until brown and fully cooked.
4. In a large bowl, combine cooked orzo, tomato sauce, half of the feta, and meatballs.
5. Transfer to a greased baking dish. Top with remaining feta and mozzarella.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden.
7. Garnish with fresh dill before serving.

6. Meatball Lasagna Casserole

A lasagna twist that’s hearty and filling.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound lasagna noodles
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 egg
• 3 cups marinara sauce
• 2 cups ricotta cheese
• 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F. Cook lasagna noodles until al dente. Drain.
2. In a bowl, mix ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic, salt, and pepper. Form into meatballs.
3. Cook meatballs in a skillet until brown and fully cooked.
4. In a large bowl, layer marinara sauce, lasagna noodles, ricotta cheese, and meatballs.
5. Top each layer with mozzarella and Parmesan.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

7. Southwestern Meatball Pasta Bake

Add some southwestern flair to your casserole.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound rigatoni pasta
• 1 pound ground turkey
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 egg
• 2 cups enchilada sauce
• 1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup corn kernels
• 2 cups shredded pepper jack cheese
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F. Cook rigatoni until al dente. Drain.
2. In a bowl, mix ground turkey, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic, salt, and pepper. Form into meatballs.
3. Cook meatballs in a skillet until brown and fully cooked.
4. In a large bowl, combine cooked rigatoni, enchilada sauce, black beans, corn, half of the pepper jack, and meatballs.
5. Transfer to a greased baking dish. Top with remaining pepper jack and cheddar cheese.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.

8. Spinach and Meatball Stuffed Shells

A healthier take with added spinach.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound jumbo pasta shells
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 egg
• 10 oz frozen spinach, thawed and drained
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F. Cook jumbo shells until al dente. Drain.
2. In a bowl, mix ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic, spinach, salt, and pepper. Form into small meatballs.
3. Cook meatballs in a skillet until brown and fully cooked.
4. Stuff each shell with meatballs and a spoonful of ricotta cheese.
5. Arrange stuffed shells in a greased baking dish. Pour marinara sauce over the top and sprinkle with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Garnish with fresh basil before serving.

9. Italian Meatball and Gnocchi Bake

Fluffy gnocchi paired with savory meatballs.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound potato gnocchi
• 1 pound Italian sausage
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 egg
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F. Cook gnocchi according to package directions. Drain.
2. In a bowl, mix Italian sausage, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic, salt, and pepper. Form into meatballs.
3. Cook meatballs in a skillet until brown and fully cooked.
4. In a large bowl, combine cooked gnocchi, marinara sauce, half of the mozzarella, and meatballs.
5. Transfer to a greased baking dish. Dollop with ricotta cheese and top with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Garnish with fresh basil before serving.

10. Meatball and Vegetable Pasta Bake

A wholesome casserole packed with veggies.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound rotini pasta
• 1 pound ground chicken
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 egg
• 1 zucchini, diced
• 1 bell pepper, diced
• 2 cups tomato sauce
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F. Cook rotini until al dente. Drain.
2. In a bowl, mix ground chicken, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic, salt, and pepper. Form into meatballs.
3. Cook meatballs in a skillet until brown and fully cooked.
4. In a large bowl, combine cooked rotini, tomato sauce, zucchini, bell pepper, half of the mozzarella, and meatballs.
5. Transfer to a greased baking dish. Dollop with ricotta cheese and top with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

11. Baked Mostaccioli with Meatballs

A Midwestern favorite that's comforting and delicious.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound mostaccioli pasta
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 egg
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F. Cook mostaccioli according to package directions until al dente. Drain.
2. In a bowl, mix ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic, salt, and pepper. Form into meatballs.
3. Cook meatballs in a skillet until brown and fully cooked.
4. In a large bowl, combine cooked mostaccioli, marinara sauce, half of the mozzarella, and meatballs.
5. Transfer to a greased baking dish. Dollop with ricotta cheese and top with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Garnish with fresh basil before serving.

12. French Onion Meatball Pasta Bake

Channel the flavors of French onion soup in your casserole.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound penne pasta
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 egg
• 2 large onions, thinly sliced
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 cup tomato sauce
• 2 cups Gruyère cheese, shredded
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh thyme for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F. Cook penne until al dente. Drain.
2. In a bowl, mix ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic, salt, and pepper. Form into meatballs.
3. Cook meatballs in a skillet until brown and fully cooked. Set aside.
4. In the same skillet, caramelize onions until golden brown. Add beef broth and tomato sauce, simmer for 5 minutes.
5. In a large bowl, combine cooked penne, caramelized onions, half of the Gruyère cheese, and meatballs.
6. Transfer to a greased baking dish. Top with remaining Gruyère and mozzarella cheese.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Garnish with fresh thyme before serving.

13. Caprese Meatball Pasta Bake

A fresh, summery twist with basil and tomatoes.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound farfalle pasta
• 1 pound ground turkey
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 egg
• 2 cups tomato sauce
• 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup fresh mozzarella balls
• 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F. Cook farfalle until al dente. Drain.
2. In a bowl, mix ground turkey, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic, salt, and pepper. Form into meatballs.
3. Cook meatballs in a skillet until brown and fully cooked.
4. In a large bowl, combine cooked farfalle, tomato sauce, cherry tomatoes, half of the mozzarella, and meatballs.
5. Transfer to a greased baking dish. Dollop with ricotta cheese and top with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Garnish with fresh basil before serving.

14. Pesto Meatball and Pasta Casserole

For pesto lovers, this dish is a must-try.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound penne pasta
• 1 pound ground chicken
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 egg
• 1 cup pesto sauce
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F. Cook penne until al dente. Drain.
2. In a bowl, mix ground chicken, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic, salt, and pepper. Form into meatballs.
3. Cook meatballs in a skillet until brown and fully cooked.
4. In a large bowl, combine cooked penne, pesto sauce, half of the mozzarella, and meatballs.
5. Transfer to a greased baking dish. Dollop with ricotta cheese and top with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Garnish with fresh basil before serving.

15. Meatball Mac and Cheese Casserole

Combine two comfort food classics into one.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound elbow macaroni
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 egg
• 2 cups cheddar cheese sauce
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup mozzarella cheese
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Chives for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F. Cook macaroni until al dente. Drain.
2. In a bowl, mix ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic, salt, and pepper. Form into meatballs.
3. Cook meatballs in a skillet until brown and fully cooked.
4. In a large bowl, combine cooked macaroni, cheddar cheese sauce, half of the shredded cheddar, and meatballs.
5. Transfer to a greased baking dish. Top with remaining cheddar and mozzarella.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Garnish with chives before serving.

16. Meatball Stuffed Manicotti

A flavorful Italian dish sure to impress.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound manicotti shells
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 egg
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F. Cook manicotti shells until al dente. Drain.
2. In a bowl, mix ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic, salt, and pepper. Form into small meatballs.
3. Cook meatballs in a skillet until brown and fully cooked.
4. Stuff each manicotti shell with a meatball.
5. Arrange stuffed manicotti in a greased baking dish. Pour marinara sauce over the top and sprinkle with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Garnish with fresh basil before serving.

17. Meatball and Artichoke Pasta Bake

A sophisticated dish with a burst of artichoke flavor.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound fusilli pasta
• 1 pound ground turkey
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 egg
• 1 can artichoke hearts, drained and quartered
• 2 cups Alfredo sauce
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F. Cook fusilli until al dente. Drain.
2. In a bowl, mix ground turkey, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic, salt, and pepper. Form into meatballs.
3. Cook meatballs in a skillet until brown and fully cooked.
4. In a large bowl, combine cooked fusilli, Alfredo sauce, artichoke hearts, half of the mozzarella, and meatballs.
5. Transfer mixture to a greased baking dish. Dollop with ricotta cheese and top with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

18. Greek Meatball and Orzo Bake

Savor the Mediterranean flavors with this dish.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound orzo pasta
• 1 pound ground lamb
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 egg
• 1 cucumber, diced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 1 cup Greek yogurt
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh dill for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F. Cook orzo until al dente. Drain.
2. In a bowl, mix ground lamb, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Form into meatballs.
3. Cook meatballs in a skillet until brown and fully cooked.
4. In a large bowl, combine cooked orzo, Greek yogurt, cucumber, cherry tomatoes, half of the feta, and meatballs.
5. Transfer to a greased baking dish. Top with remaining feta.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Garnish with fresh dill before serving.

19. Sweet and Sour Meatball Noodle Bake

An Asian-inspired casserole with zingy flavors.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound egg noodles
• 1 pound ground pork
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 egg
• 1 cup pineapple chunks
• 1 cup bell pepper, diced
• 2 cups sweet and sour sauce
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Chopped green onions for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F. Cook egg noodles until al dente. Drain.
2. In a bowl, mix ground pork, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic, salt, and pepper. Form into meatballs.
3. Cook meatballs in a skillet until brown and fully cooked.
4. In a large bowl, combine cooked egg noodles, sweet and sour sauce, pineapple chunks, bell pepper, half of the cheddar, and meatballs.
5. Transfer to a greased baking dish. Top with remaining cheddar.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Garnish with chopped green onions before serving.

20. Meatball and Three-Cheese Tortellini Bake

It's cheesy, comforting, and oh-so-delicious.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound cheese tortellini
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 egg
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F. Cook tortellini until al dente. Drain.
2. In a bowl, mix ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic, salt, and pepper. Form into meatballs.
3. Cook meatballs in a skillet until brown and fully cooked.
4. In a large bowl, combine cooked tortellini, marinara sauce, half of the mozzarella, and meatballs.
5. Transfer to a greased baking dish. Dollop with ricotta cheese and top with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

21. Mexican Meatball and Rice Casserole

Fiery and packed with Mexican flavors.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups rice (cooked)
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 egg
• 1 can black beans (drained and rinsed)
• 1 cup corn kernels
• 2 cups salsa
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a bowl, mix ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic, salt, and pepper. Form into meatballs.
3. Cook meatballs in a skillet until brown and fully cooked.
4. In a large bowl, combine cooked rice, black beans, corn, salsa, half of the cheddar, and meatballs.
5. Transfer to a greased baking dish. Top with remaining cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.

22. Swedish Meatball and Noodle Casserole

Enjoy the creamy, delightful taste of Swedish meatballs.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound egg noodles
• 1 pound ground pork
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 egg
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup shredded Swiss cheese
• 1 cup sour cream
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F. Cook egg noodles until al dente. Drain.
2. In a bowl, mix ground pork, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic, salt, and pepper. Form into meatballs.
3. Cook meatballs in a skillet until brown and fully cooked, then remove and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add beef broth and bring to a simmer. Stir in heavy cream and sour cream, mix until smooth.
5. In a large bowl, combine cooked egg noodles, creamy sauce, half of the Swiss cheese, and meatballs.
6. Transfer to a greased baking dish. Top with remaining Swiss cheese.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

23. Meatball and Broccoli Rabe Pasta Bake

A nutritious and flavorful dish.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound rigatoni pasta
• 1 pound ground turkey
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 egg
• 1 bunch broccoli rabe, chopped
• 2 cups tomato sauce
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F. Cook rigatoni until al dente. Drain.
2. In a bowl, mix ground turkey, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic, salt, and pepper. Form into meatballs.
3. Cook meatballs in a skillet until brown and fully cooked.
4. Blanch the broccoli rabe in boiling water for 3-4 minutes until tender, then drain.
5. In a large bowl, combine cooked rigatoni, tomato sauce, broccoli rabe, half of the mozzarella, and meatballs.
6. Transfer to a greased baking dish. Dollop with ricotta cheese and top with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Garnish with fresh basil before serving.

24. Lemon Garlic Meatball Pasta Bake

A zesty, fresh tasting dish perfect for any season.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound spaghetti
• 1 pound ground chicken
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 egg
• 2 lemons (zested and juiced)
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F. Cook spaghetti until al dente. Drain.
2. In a bowl, mix ground chicken, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic, salt, and pepper. Form into meatballs.
3. Cook meatballs in a skillet until brown and fully cooked.
4. In the same skillet, add garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes. Add chicken broth, lemon zest, and lemon juice, and bring to a simmer.
5. In a large bowl, combine cooked spaghetti, lemon garlic sauce, half of the mozzarella, and meatballs.
6. Transfer to a greased baking dish. Top with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Garnish with fresh basil before serving.

25. Mushroom and Meatball Pasta Bake

Earthy mushrooms complement the hearty meatballs in this dish.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound bow tie pasta
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 egg
• 2 cups mushrooms, sliced
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F. Cook bow tie pasta until al dente. Drain.
2. In a bowl, mix ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic, salt, and pepper. Form into meatballs.
3. Cook meatballs in a skillet until brown and fully cooked.
4. Sauté mushrooms in the same skillet until tender.
5. In a large bowl, combine cooked bow tie pasta, marinara sauce, mushrooms, half of the mozzarella, and meatballs.
6. Transfer to a greased baking dish. Dollop with ricotta cheese and top with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

26. Meatball and Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta Bake

The rich flavor of sun-dried tomatoes makes this dish a standout.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound penne pasta
• 1 pound ground chicken
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 egg
• 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes in oil (drained and chopped)
• 2 cups Alfredo sauce
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F. Cook penne pasta until al dente. Drain.
2. In a bowl, mix ground chicken, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic, salt, and pepper. Form into meatballs.
3. Cook meatballs in a skillet until brown and fully cooked.
4. In a large bowl, combine cooked penne, Alfredo sauce, sun-dried tomatoes, half of the mozzarella, and meatballs.
5. Transfer to a greased baking dish. Dollop with ricotta cheese and top with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Garnish with fresh basil before serving.

27. Cajun Meatball and Pasta Casserole

For a spicy kick, try this Cajun-inspired recipe.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound rotini pasta
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 egg
• 1 cup andouille sausage, sliced
• 2 cups Cajun Alfredo sauce
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F. Cook rotini pasta until al dente. Drain.
2. In a bowl, mix ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic, salt, and pepper. Form into meatballs.
3. Cook meatballs in a skillet until brown and fully cooked.
4. Sauté sliced andouille sausage until browned.
5. In a large bowl, combine cooked rotini, Cajun Alfredo sauce, andouille sausage, half of the cheddar, and meatballs.
6. Transfer to a greased baking dish. Dollop with ricotta cheese and top with remaining cheddar.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

28. Buffalo Chicken Meatball Pasta Bake

Savory and spicy, this dish will satisfy your comfort food cravings.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound penne pasta
• 1 pound ground chicken
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 egg
• 1/2 cup buffalo sauce
• 2 cups ranch dressing
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Chopped green onions for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F. Cook penne pasta until al dente. Drain.
2. In a bowl, mix ground chicken, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic, salt, and pepper. Form into meatballs.
3. Cook meatballs in a skillet until brown and fully cooked. Toss meatballs with buffalo sauce.
4. In a large bowl, combine cooked penne, ranch dressing, half of the cheddar, and meatballs.
5. Transfer to a greased baking dish. Top with remaining cheddar and mozzarella.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Garnish with chopped green onions before serving.

29. Meatball Parmesan Casserole

Classic flavors of meatball parm in a comforting bake.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound rotini pasta
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 egg
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F. Cook rotini pasta until al dente. Drain.
2. In a bowl, mix ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic, salt, and pepper. Form into meatballs.
3. Cook meatballs in a skillet until brown and fully cooked.
4. In a large bowl, combine cooked rotini, marinara sauce, half of the mozzarella, and meatballs.
5. Transfer to a greased baking dish. Dollop with ricotta cheese and top with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Garnish with fresh basil before serving.

30. Meatball and Spinach Alfredo Pasta Bake

Creamy Alfredo, hearty meatballs, and nutritious spinach.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound fettuccine pasta
• 1 pound ground turkey
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 egg
• 10 oz frozen spinach, thawed and drained
• 2 cups Alfredo sauce
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F. Cook fettuccine pasta until al dente. Drain.
2. In a bowl, mix ground turkey, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic, salt, and pepper. Form into meatballs.
3. Cook meatballs in a skillet until brown and fully cooked.
4. In a large bowl, combine cooked fettuccine, Alfredo sauce, spinach, half of the mozzarella, and meatballs.
5. Transfer to a greased baking dish. Dollop with ricotta cheese and top with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Garnish with fresh basil before serving.

Conclusion

As you can see, there’s a baked pasta casserole with meatballs for practically every taste and occasion. From traditional Italian flavors to inventive twists like Buffalo Chicken and Mediterranean, these recipes are sure to bring warmth and comfort to your table.

Whether you're cooking for a family gathering, hosting a dinner party, or looking to treat yourself to something special, these casseroles are the perfect go-to dishes. Give a few of these recipes a try and enjoy the soothing, delicious comfort they bring to your kitchen and your soul. Happy baking!