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Savory Meatball Casserole Recipe Easy Cheesy Baked Ziti Dinner

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This savory meatball casserole combines tender homemade meatballs, cheesy baked ziti, and rich tomato sauce for a comforting, crowd-pleasing dinner. It’s easy to prepare, perfect for family gatherings, and delivers classic Italian-American flavors with a creamy, cheesy twist.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb ground beef (80/20)
  • 1/2 lb ground pork (optional)
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (use gluten-free if needed)
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 large egg, beaten
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (or 1 tsp dried)
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1/4 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy alternative)
  • 1 lb ziti pasta (or penne)
  • 24 oz marinara sauce
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional)
  • 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1 cup shredded provolone or fontina cheese
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 cup ricotta cheese (optional)
  • Fresh basil leaves, torn (for garnish)
  • Extra grated Parmesan (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add ziti and cook until just al dente (about 8 minutes). Drain and set aside.
  3. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, egg, garlic, parsley, oregano, salt, pepper, and milk. Mix until just combined. Form into 1-inch balls (about 20–24 meatballs).
  4. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange meatballs evenly. Bake for 15–18 minutes, until browned and cooked through.
  5. In a large bowl, stir together marinara sauce, heavy cream (if using), and red pepper flakes. Taste and adjust seasoning.
  6. Grease a 13×9-inch casserole dish. Layer half the cooked ziti, half the sauce, half the meatballs, half the cheese blend (mozzarella, provolone, Parmesan), and half the ricotta (if using). Repeat layers.
  7. Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake another 10–15 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden. Broil for 2–3 minutes for extra browning if desired.
  8. Let casserole rest for 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil and extra Parmesan.

Notes

For gluten-free or vegetarian adaptations, use gluten-free pasta and breadcrumbs or swap meatballs for eggplant/mushroom balls. Slightly undercook pasta to prevent mushiness. Mix cheese types for best flavor. Let casserole rest before serving for easier scooping. Can be made ahead and refrigerated or frozen for later.

Nutrition

Keywords: meatball casserole, baked ziti, cheesy casserole, Italian dinner, comfort food, easy weeknight meal, pasta bake, family recipe

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