If you’re looking for a hearty, cheesy, and ultra-satisfying dinner that the whole family will love, this Cheesy Meatballs & Shells Casserole is a perfect choice. Combining tender meatballs, perfectly cooked pasta shells, and a rich marinara sauce, all topped with melted cheese, this casserole is pure comfort food. It’s the ideal dish for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend dinner that brings everyone to the table.
Meatballs and pasta are a classic combination, but baking them together in a casserole adds another layer of flavor and texture. The pasta soaks up the savory marinara sauce, and the meatballs stay juicy and tender while the cheese melts into a golden, bubbly topping. Each bite is a perfect balance of cheesy, meaty goodness.
This dish is incredibly versatile and easy to customize to your family’s tastes. You can use store-bought or homemade meatballs, and even switch up the pasta if you prefer penne or rigatoni. Add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for a nutritious boost, or spice it up with crushed red pepper flakes for a little heat.
Another great feature of this casserole is that it’s a make-ahead meal. You can prepare it ahead of time and pop it in the oven when you’re ready to serve, making it perfect for meal prepping or entertaining guests. It’s also freezer-friendly, so you can enjoy a delicious, home-cooked meal anytime without the hassle.
This casserole is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, whether you’re serving it for a family dinner, a potluck, or a casual get-together. It’s comforting, filling, and packed with flavor, ensuring that everyone leaves the table happy and satisfied. Plus, the leftovers taste just as amazing the next day!
If you’re craving a comforting, cheesy meal that’s easy to make and even easier to love, this Cheesy Meatballs & Shells Casserole is the recipe you need. It’s simple, delicious, and perfect for any occasion.
So gather your ingredients and get ready to enjoy a casserole that’s bound to become a family favorite.
Servings
Serves: 6
Time
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Ingredients
- 12 oz medium pasta shells
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 lb meatballs (homemade or store-bought)
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 24 oz marinara sauce
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup ricotta cheese (optional, for extra creaminess)
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Prepare the Pasta
- Boil Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta shells and cook until al dente according to package instructions.
- Drain and Set Aside: Drain the pasta and set aside.
Prepare the Meatballs and Sauce
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Heat Oil: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Cook Onion and Garlic: Add the diced onion and cook for 2-3 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Add Meatballs: Add the meatballs to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally until browned.
- Add Marinara Sauce: Pour in the marinara sauce and sprinkle with Italian seasoning. Simmer for 5 minutes to combine flavors.
Assemble the Casserole
- Mix Pasta and Sauce: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, meatballs, and sauce. Add grated Parmesan and ricotta cheese (if using) and mix well.
- Transfer to Baking Dish: Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Add Cheese Topping: Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
Bake the Casserole
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Broil for Golden Top (Optional): For a golden, crispy top, broil for 2-3 minutes at the end.
Garnish and Serve
- Add Garnish: Sprinkle with fresh basil or parsley before serving.
- Serve Hot: Enjoy immediately!
Pro Tips
- Use Frozen Meatballs: Save time by using pre-cooked frozen meatballs. Just thaw and add them to the sauce.
- Add Veggies: Incorporate spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini for added nutrition.
- Make Ahead: Assemble the casserole in advance, cover, and refrigerate. Bake when ready to serve.
- Extra Creamy Option: Add a layer of ricotta cheese for an extra creamy texture.
Summary
Cheesy Meatballs & Shells Casserole is a comforting, cheesy, and flavorful dish that combines tender meatballs, pasta shells, and marinara sauce topped with melted cheese. It’s easy to make, customizable, and perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, this casserole is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
