Description

Easy Pasta Bake with Mostaccioli and Meatballs is a simple and satisfying casserole featuring tender pasta, juicy meatballs, and melty cheese baked to perfection—ideal for a weeknight family dinner.

Ingredients

1 lb mostaccioli pasta
1 jar (24 oz) marinara or pasta sauce
1 lb frozen fully-cooked meatballs (or homemade)
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tsp Italian seasoning
1/2 tsp garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tbsp olive oil (for greasing)

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Instructions

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil.
Cook mostaccioli pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, marinara sauce, meatballs, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
Pour half of the pasta and meatball mixture into the baking dish. Sprinkle with 1 cup mozzarella cheese.
Layer the remaining pasta mixture on top and sprinkle with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Then uncover and bake an additional 10 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Let rest for 5–10 minutes before serving.

Notes

Use homemade or store-bought meatballs depending on time and preference.
Can be made ahead and refrigerated; just add 10 extra minutes to the bake time.
Add spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for added vegetables.