Ultimate Baked Meatball and Macaroni Casserole
This ultimate baked meatball and macaroni casserole is hearty, cheesy, and pure comfort food. Tender pasta, juicy meatballs, rich tomato sauce, and layers of melted cheese come together in one satisfying dish that’s perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or make-ahead meals.
Ingredients:
12 ounces elbow macaroni
1 pound fully cooked meatballs (homemade or frozen, thawed)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 small onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 jar (24 ounces) marinara sauce
1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, drained
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 cup ricotta cheese
1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley or basil (optional)
Instructions:
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Cook the macaroni in salted boiling water according to package directions until just al dente. Drain and set aside.
Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 3 to 4 minutes until softened. Add the garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Stir in the marinara sauce, diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes to blend flavors.
In a large bowl, combine the cooked macaroni, meatballs, sauce mixture, and ricotta cheese. Gently stir until everything is evenly coated.
Pour half of the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle with half of the mozzarella and a portion of the Parmesan cheese.
Add the remaining pasta mixture and top with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan.
Cover loosely with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake an additional 10 to 15 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and lightly golden.
Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes before serving. Sprinkle with fresh parsley or basil if desired.
Helpful Tips:
Cut larger meatballs in half for better distribution.
For extra richness, add a splash of heavy cream to the sauce.
Spice lovers can add crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve with garlic bread or a simple green salad.
Pairs well with roasted vegetables like broccoli or zucchini.
Leftovers reheat beautifully and taste even better the next day.
This ultimate baked meatball and macaroni casserole is warm, filling, and irresistibly cheesy — a classic comfort dish everyone will ask for again.