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Baked meatball pasta with melted cheese and herbs on top

Baked Meatball Pasta

This Baked Meatball Pasta is a cozy dish that combines savory flavors, melted cheese, and easy preparation, making it perfect for weeknight dinners.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 50 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 450
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 Bag frozen meatballs, defrosted Use store-bought meatballs for speed.
  • 1 Jar marinara or spaghetti sauce A good jarred marinara saves time.
  • 3 Cups water
  • 1 Box Bowtie pasta Can substitute with penne, rigatoni, or any sturdy shape.
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • 1.5 Cups Mozzarella cheese Keep cheese shredded for even melting.
  • 0.25 Cups Parmesan cheese, grated

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F.
  2. In a high-sided, oven-proof skillet or Dutch oven, pour in the jar of sauce, add 3 cups of water, and stir in the Italian seasoning.
  3. Nestle the defrosted meatballs into the sauce and scatter the bowtie pasta on top.
  4. Gently stir to coat the pasta without clumping, ensuring the liquid just covers the pasta.
Baking
  1. Cover the pot tightly with a lid or foil and bake for 35 minutes.
  2. Remove the cover, sprinkle with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, and return to the oven.
  3. Bake uncovered for an additional 10–15 minutes until cheese melts and edges turn golden.
  4. Let the dish rest for 10 minutes before serving.

Notes

Store in an airtight container for 3–4 days in the fridge. Freeze portions for up to 2 months. Reheat gently in a skillet or oven.